Players to Know from the NJ HS Soccer Top 100 for 2026–27

Players to Know from the NJ HS Soccer Top 100 for 2026–27

As we transition into the 2026–27 high school soccer season, the NJ HS Soccer Top 100 Leaderboard offers insightful glimpses into the talents returning to the field. While #1 might always catch the eye, diversity in skills and positions across all ranks makes for an exciting season. Let's explore some standout players, from midfield maestros to commanding forwards, who are set to leave their mark this year.

Spotlight on Under-the-Radar Talents

1. Cole Carver - The Young Dynamo

Ranked 19th last season, Cole Carver from The King’s Christian School is a sophomore midfielder and forward whose presence is hard to ignore. With 28 goals and 8 assists, his ability to seamlessly blend attacking prowess with midfield versatility set him apart. As he steps into his junior year, all eyes will be on how he continues to harness his impressive goal-scoring ability.

2. Ellie Bodine - The Dual Threat

From Cumberland Regional High School, Ellie Bodine showcases incredible determination and talent as she secured a joint 10th rank on the girls' leaderboard. With 34 goals and 10 assists under her belt last season, this junior's attacking success stems from her ability to play multiple positions with ease.

3. Anthony Bautista - The Consistent Forward

Anthony Bautista, who represented Saint Peter's Prep High School as a senior, rounded off the previous season ranked 21st with 26 goals and 11 assists. Known for his consistency and strategic positioning on the field, Bautista's contributions in attack ensure his team always has a competitive edge.

Assessing the Midfield Powerhouses

1. Hope Ernst - The Rising Sophomore

It's not often that a sophomore catches our eye with such prestigious rankings, but Hope Ernst from Ramsey High School did just that. Ranked 5th on the girls' leaderboard, she's credited with 31 goals and a remarkable 23 assists last season. Ernst's dynamic style makes her one to watch keenly as she navigates the upcoming challenges of her junior year.

2. Kiandry Aban - The Junior Visionary

With a rank of 23, Kiandry Aban from Harrison High School is an indispensable part of his team’s midfield arsenal. His 25 goals and 12 assists steer the team forward, evidence of a player whose vision on the pitch continues to evolve with every season.

Enduring Forward Strength

1. Maya Nuwayhid - A Stellar Senior

Hailing from the Pingry School, Maya Nuwayhid ended 8th on the previous leaderboard highlighting her forward capabilities with 38 goals and 5 assists. As she graduates this year, her aim will be to leverage her extensive experience to lead her team to newer heights and impart invaluable knowledge to future stars.

2. Sean Moore - From Midfield to Goal Scorer

From Colts Neck High School, Sean Moore ranked 11th and is notable for his adaptability and focus on bagging goals, with 30 goals to his name last season. As he moves into his senior year, Moore's potential will likely shape compelling team strategies that hinge on his midfield and scoring capabilities.

The Midfield-Forward Hybrid Players

1. Brady Gesin - The Balanced Approach

With notable numbers showcasing 28 goals and 11 assists, being tied at rank 12, Brady Gesin from Gloucester County Christian School is emblematic of multi-positional excellence. Juniors like Gesin exemplify why the crossover between midfield and forward roles is both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

2. Gianna Hanf - A Lead in Both Roles

Ranked 12th, Gianna Hanf from Northern Burlington Regional High School has amassed 36 goals with only 5 assists. Her role as both a midfielder and forward allows her to orchestrate plays as well as conclude them, making her a player of existing and mounting significance as she enters her final year.

Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead

The NJ HS Soccer Top 100 continues to evolve, offering a plethora of talent and narratives to follow. Players like Cole Carver and Ellie Bodine illustrate that while top rankings are significant, there's a broad array of skills and stories to celebrate across the board. As we prepare for the upcoming season, these athletes’ performances remind us of the collective effort, determination, and passion present on the New Jersey soccer fields. Keep an eye out for these stars as they continue to inspire and elevate the game.