Terrapin Classic – Under-the-Radar 2026 players

Part 2 of our Liberty Sports Park Terrapin Classic scouting report highlights the top uncommitted SSDMs and a standout FOGO from the event.    Jaxon Snelbaker is a tough and gritty defensive midfielder from the MIAA powerhouse, Calvert Hall. Known for his relentless motor and hustle, Snelbaker is always in the mix, constantly making plays and driving his team forward. He brings a strong presence when on-ball, never shying away from contact and thriving in physical battles. His ability to take on challenges and win 50/50 situations is a key strength, and he uses his toughness to disrupt opposing offenses. On top of his defensive prowess, Snelbaker is also a standout in transition, utilizing his speed and vision to quickly turn defense into offense. Whether he's locking down his man or igniting the fast break, his gritty, no-nonsense style of play makes him a dynamic and impactful player for Calvert Hall. He since committed to Richmond over the weekend.     Thomas Freeman is a standout defensive midfielder from Bronxville, NY, a school renowned for producing top-tier defensive talent. At 6'1" and with great speed, Freeman combines his solid physical stature with exceptional athleticism to dominate on both ends of the field. He made an immediate impact, starting for his high school team as a freshman, and quickly established himself as one of the best transition midfielders and wing midfielders in his class. Freeman is arguably the best 2027 transition midfielder, wing midfielder, and defensive midfielder I've seen, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas of the game. His toughness and grit shine through every time he steps on the field, and he's a clearing machine, adept at moving the ball upfield and generating fast-break opportunities. Whether it's on the wing, in transition, or locking down his man, Freeman's tenacity and high lacrosse IQ make him a difference-maker and one of the most exciting prospects in his class.     There must be something in the water at Choate Rosemary Hall School in Connecticut because this school is turning into a machine when it comes to producing defensive midfielders who can play at a high level. Joey Swan is an athletic and gritty player who excels in every aspect of the game. With his strong work ethic and relentless motor, he's the kind of player who leaves it all on the field. A solid all-around athlete, Swan is known for his ability to make an impact in transition, using his speed and vision to quickly turn defense into offense. His tenacity and physicality allow him to outwork opponents, whether he's making a big hit, winning a ground ball, or driving the fast break. Swan's combination of athleticism, grit, and awareness make him a valuable asset on both sides of the ball, and he consistently shows up when his team needs a spark. Watch out for this Choate defense for the next few years because Joey Swan and fellow SSDM teammate Paul Wable, Who recently verbally committed to the North Carolina Tar Heels are going to be the backbone for this elite Founders League defense.     Tristan Blaine plays with the tenacity and physicality of a linebacker, bringing a level of grit and toughness to the defensive midfield position that is hard to match. With his exceptional size and unbelievable athleticism for his frame, Blaine is a force on the field, combining power, speed, and endurance to dominate his matchup. His ability to lock down opposing midfielders while transitioning seamlessly into offense makes him a true two-way threat. Blaine's explosive athleticism allows him to cover ground quickly and make plays in transition, while his physicality ensures he can disrupt ball carriers and make life difficult for opposing offenses. Whether it's on-ball defense, grabbing key ground balls, or pushing the ball upfield, Blaine's combination of size, speed, and athleticism makes him a standout in the defensive midfield role.     Becket Ballinger is a tough, gritty faceoff specialist who plays for St. Paul's School in Maryland and plays for the Sixers, a highly regarded Colorado-based club team. Known for his tenacity and relentless drive at the X, Ballinger is not only exceptional at winning draws but also excels at creating fast breaks immediately after securing possession. His athleticism extends beyond the face-off circle, allowing him to make an impact away from the X, whether it's scooping up ground balls or pushing the transition. Ballinger is great at fighting for the ball after the draw, often coming out with possession in tight situations. When needed, he has the ability to put the ball away and score, showcasing his versatility as a two-way threat. His face-off defense is solid, and his ability to clamp down and disrupt the opponent's offense makes him a critical asset for his team. Ballinger's combination of skill, grit, and hustle makes him one of the top uncommitted face-off specialists in the game.

Part 2 of our Liberty Sports Park Terrapin Classic scouting report highlights the top uncommitted SSDMs and a standout FOGO from the event.