The 2026 Hermann Trophy Players to Watch List has spotlighted two emerging defensive talents, Nick Collins of Rutgers and Charlie Kitch of Elon, as the season’s most promising back‑line performers.
Defensive Standouts
Collins, a junior at Rutgers, logged 1,499 minutes across 17 starts, the second‑most on his team, and broke through with a career‑high three goals, including a decisive strike against Wisconsin on October 10, while also adding two assists for eight career points.
His defensive contributions helped the Scarlet Knights record five shutouts, the most since 2021, underscoring his impact on a unit that has tightened up throughout the campaign.
Kitch, meanwhile, anchored Elon’s defense en route to the 2025 Colonial Athletic Association Championship, earning All‑CAA Second Team honors for the second straight year and a United Soccer Coaches Third Team All‑Atlantic Region nod.
He started 12 of 18 appearances, accumulating 1,129 minutes and adding two goals, one of which came in a 6‑4 victory over Campbell in the CAA Tournament semifinals, a match that highlighted his ability to influence play under pressure.
Both players’ recognitions reflect a broader narrative of defensive excellence in college soccer this year, suggesting that their respective programs will rely heavily on their leadership as the season progresses toward postseason play.