How this athletic and highly skilled midfielder with a winning pedigree remains available is a complete mystery. This past spring, McCarthy posted a breakout junior season during which he helped push Malvern Prep to the PAISAA state title. During the 2026 high school season, McCarthy used his speed, high IQ, and elusive stick maneuvers to push MP’s transition game. On the summer club circuit, McCarthy proved to be a matchup nightmare in 6v6 action too. His ability to get downhill in a flash, elude sliding defenders with shifty moves, and then shoot/distribute on the move was impressive. This summer McCarthy also ripped perimeter sidearms and overhands into the back of the net. Additionally, McCarthy turned heads with his field vision and passing skills. McCarthy’s outstanding performances in July helped Team Ten win its division at the Philly Bowl and finish second at the Alliance League Summer Championships.  

This past spring, McCarthy posted a breakout high school season as a key offensive piece for Malvern Prep’s PAISAA state title-winning team. McCarthy has continued that extraordinary level of play here in June and college coaches need to stop sleeping on this talented midfielder. Recently in 6v6 action, McCarthy has demonstrated an attacking style that places continuous pressure on opposing defenses. His ability to get downhill in a flash, then elude sliding defenders with his shifty moves has enabled McCarthy to carry the ball deep into the offensive end for goals and assists. McCarthy has also proven that he can dodge down the alley, slam on the brakes, and then rip from 12-15 yards out. His ability to play with both hands has allowed McCarthy to initiate going to his left or right. With his speed and field vision, McCarthy has excelled in transition too. On the fast break, McCarthy’s smart and timely passes have created easy scoring chances for teammates.        

During Malvern’s win, McCarthy was extraordinarily impressive as the quarterback of the Friars offense. McCarthy excelled at keeping his head up while on the run and then using his field vision to distribute to open teammates. His ability to play with either hand combined with his timing produced three assists in this game. This available 2027 prospect also scored a beautiful goal in the third quarter. On that play, McCarthy initiated from top left, cooked the initial defender, continued down the left alley and then fired a lefty jump shot into the net.

McCarthy missed the entire 2025 season with a torn ACL. Earlier this week McCarthy returned to action in grand fashion as he scored an impressive goal in Malvern Prep’s season opening 10-8 win over Boys Latin. McCarthy is an agile and solidly built midfielder who can shoot / distribute with both hands. His quick first step combined with his ability to dodge going left or right presents significant matchup issues for defenders. When he is not getting downhill, McCarthy can snipe from the wing or up top. Additionally, McCarthy is a high IQ off-ball player whose timely cuts through the middle of the opposing defense often leads to clean catch and shoot opportunities. McCarthy’s incredible field vision makes him a creative passer too. We predict that McCarthy is headed for a monster junior season.