Terp Classic Standouts: 2027 Uncommitted SSDMs

The Terrapin Classic at Liberty Sports Park drew a massive crowd of college coaches last weekend, with sidelines packed by Division I, II, and III programs looking to finalize or add to their 2027 recruiting boards. Here's a look at the top uncommitted short-stick defensive midfielders in attendance:    Aaron Lambert stood out as one of the most college-ready defensive midfielders at the Terrapin Classic. He contributes on offense, but his athleticism, strength, and footwork make him an instant-impact SSDM at the next level. His athleticism shows in transition. He confidently clears the ball, splits double teams, and stays controlled with the ball. Lambert's strong lower body and disciplined footwork help him stay with dodgers, while his upper-body strength lets him redirect them. His offensive experience gives him the vision and stick skills to make smart transition plays without unnecessary risks. With two-way ability and athletic upside, Lambert is a solid late addition for any team needing a reliable SSDM.     Oliver Szurek brings the size and speed coaches look for in a college short-stick defensive midfielder. At 6'3” and 195 pounds, he uses his build to challenge dodgers and force turnovers with his strength. In two man games, he will blow up any advantage offenses are trying to create. He reacts quickly to loose balls and is hard to move in groundball battles. Szurek is confident and dependable in transition, and he can draw defenders when needed. If defenders do not respect him, he can score with strong overhand shots. His size, athleticism, and versatility make him a strong candidate for colleges looking for a SSDM.     A pure athlete, Gavin Baxter is a defensive midfielder college coaches should have on their radar. While he could benefit from adding a bit more weight, his athleticism is undeniable. At the Terrapin Classic, he stood out for his aggressive checks and physical jams, forcing multiple turnovers without sacrificing positioning. Baxter excels on faceoff wings, using speed and anticipation to win ground balls in traffic or open space. In transition, he makes composed decisions that keep play moving for his team. With speed, competitiveness, and defensive instincts, Baxter projects well at the next level.     Henry Wasileski has the size and strength college coaches seek in a short-stick defensive midfielder. His footwork is clean and efficient outside the hub, and inside, he uses his strength to challenge dodgers and contest shots. He reacts quickly to ground balls and looks to start transition plays immediately. His stick skills may not shine, but he is steady and reliable with the ball, making smart decisions that keep possessions alive. Wasileski's mix of size, strength, and discipline makes him a dependable choice for teams wanting more toughness and stability in the midfield.     Jack Denney stood out against Blue Star at the Terrapin Classic, showing a well-rounded defensive skill set and strong lacrosse IQ. His off-ball defense was especially impressive. He had constant head turns even through Blue Star's off ball actions and was ready to deliver timely two slides. In two-man games, he stayed close to the picker's hip to prevent any offensive advantage. On-ball, Denney forced a handful of turnovers with physical jams and smart positioning. In transition, his speed helped him create early offense. On man-down situations, he rotated confidently and held his own as the only short stick on the field. If he continues to add strength, Denney's combination of IQ, effort, and versatility could make him a strong prospect for college coaches.

The Terrapin Classic at Liberty Sports Park drew a massive crowd of college coaches last weekend, with sidelines packed by Division I, II, and III programs looking to finalize or add to their 2027 recruiting boards. Here's a look at the top uncommitted short-stick defensive midfielders in attendance: