The fate of the college program is often altered long before any matches are played. That’s because winning the recruiting season is a vital part of a successful year. Several programs are enjoying a Merry Christmas thanks to the commitments of these top 2011 prospects:

Tracy Hong (Pleasanton Rage), who is heading to Cal Poly. Ranked in our Top 100 List she’s a winger who has a knack for putting herself in great positions. Cal Poly would agree.

“It’s a great environment and school,” Hong said, of why she’ll be heading to San Luis Obispo next fall. “I really like the coach and the team.”

Lauren Flynn (St. Louis Gallagher), another winger, will sign with Missouri in February. She fell head over heels for Mizzou after visiting the campus.

“They have a strong desire to win and push their players very hard to make them the best,” she said. “That was something that really caught my eye.”

Ariana Aston (Syosset SC) is heading to Boston University.

Abby Dahlkemper (MVLA) will be heading to UCLA.

Loeau Labonta (Arsenal) will be heading to Stanford.

Kelsey Foo (MVLA) will be heading to Oregon.

DECISION TO COME

Molly Poletto (Colorado Rush) was all set to make her commitment until learning that her prospective school’s coach won’t be returning. She has regrouped and is set to make a decision soon.

On the men’s side, there is no shortage of top players finalizing their decisions.

Nick Palodichuk (Seattle Sounders) has settled on attending Duke.

Cody Thompson (LA Galaxy) will be heading to UC Irvine.

Jimmy Petruccelli (Seacoast United) will be heading to Providence College.

DECISION TO COME

Jonathan Top (FC Dallas) is leaning strongly towards one ACC program in particular but has yet to decide. Expect an announcement forthcoming.

Tommy Jaeger (Real Colorado) has a prospect list that includes the likes of George Mason, West Point and South Florida but has not yet finalized his decision.

Send us your college commitments!