Brandeis forward Will DeNight holds off several Washington and Lee defenders. (Sportspix.com)
Most freshmen join college soccer programs knowing that it'll take some time to break into the starting XI. A key role or immediate impact is ideal, but seldom expected.
Despite those truisms, the below 10 freshmen have carved out vital roles at Division 3 programs throughout New England. They're laying the foundation for successful careers that could define conferences from Connecticut up to Maine.
Aside from the 10 notables, we've also included a section of five honorable-mention players. Altogether, eight have hometowns in the region.
Let's get underway, starting with a NEWMAC midfielder who has chipped in from the get-go.
