University of Connecticut's men's soccer program has announced the arrival of five new student‑athletes who will join the class of 2030.
A Multifaceted Recruiting Class
Head coach Chris Gbandi expressed enthusiasm about the new recruits, emphasizing their competitive drive and growth mindset.
The group comprises a goalkeeper, a defender, a midfielder and two forwards, each bringing distinct experiences from youth soccer circuits across the United States and abroad.
Summerville Beckford, a goalkeeper from Ossining, New York, joins after a standout stint with New York City FC Academy and a recognition as a Regeneron Science Talent Search Scholar in 2026.
Owen Bland, a defender from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, arrives following a championship‑winning season with Nashville SC Academy and a Tennessee State Tournament title in 2021.
Midfielder Lucas DePinho, hailing from Clark, New Jersey, earned a call‑up to the U.S. Under‑15 national team camp in 2022 after his performances with the New York City FC Academy.
Grant Emerhi, a midfielder from Mansfield, Massachusetts, brings international experience, having represented Lithuania at the U‑16, U‑17 and U‑19 levels while playing for the New England Revolution Academy.
Forward Justin Hubbard, from The Woodlands, Texas, led his club team at GFI in Houston to the top of the scoring chart in 2023.
All five recruits share a common academic goal: they will each pursue a degree in finance at UConn.
Coach Gbandi highlighted that the combination of athletic talent and scholarly ambition aligns with the program’s vision of developing well‑rounded leaders.
The incoming class reflects a blend of domestic talent and global perspective, signaling an exciting future for Huskies soccer.