We’re back with our freshmen-turned-sophomores who are most likely to continue turning heads as we shift our focus to the Conference USA group.

The Gatekeeper

Daniel Withrow, Marshall

Daniel Withrow, Marshall: Withrow doesn’t look particularly intimidating as a goalkeeper, and maybe he isn’t. But he is particularly effective. His 6-foot-1 shoulders were more than broad enough to carry the load in net for one of the best programs in the conference.

Withrow started 14 games and made 65 saves to lead Marshall to a 10-6-2 overall mark. He proved to be one of the most consistent keepers in Conference USA by finishing second in save percentage while posting three shutouts. His reign as the starter and face of the defense should be fairly unchallenged over the next few years.

The Firepower

Kofi Gyawu, UAB: A product of Norcross Fury in Georgia, Gyawu is a big powerful presence with explosive scoring ability. Performing like a veteran, he tied for the team lead in goals and was second on the team in points.    

He played and started in each game and began to transition his physical prowess into savvy by the end of the year.

The Internationals

Sebastian Frings, Florida International: He’s a big target with a fearless style. Hailing from Dusseldorf, Germany, Frings made a seamless transition and wasted no time in establishing himself as the No.1 option.

Frings is powerful and accurate at 6-foot-2. He led the team with nine goals, 19 points and 23 shots on goal – how’s that for a bashful first-year player? Frings came in with a certain maturity to his game and he’ll only get better as he sees more reps.

Nicholas Robson, UCF

Nicholas Robson, UCF: Another great find from abroad, Robson arrived with his Auckland, New Zealand flair and became a vital part of the Knights’ offense.

An aggressive player, Robson led the team with eight goals, six assists, 22 points and 47 shots. He started in 15 of the 16 games he played in and truly got his career off on a positive note.

Matt Lodge, Kentucky: From Rossington, England, Lodge brought his cunning savvy to the pitch and instantly became his team’s best player.

Lodge led a solid Wildcats team in goals, points and shots. He’ll be called on for even more production with the graduation of valuable attackers Tim Crone and Jason Griffiths.