Jacob Hauser-Ramsey (University of Connecticut, Junior)
One of the first Sounders Academy alums to progress from the U-14 to the U-18 levels, Hauser-Ramsey’s time in Seattle’s youth system helped him develop into a versatile defender. With 17 starts in 2017, he was a pivotal member of the Huskies three-man back line that collected eight shutout wins, registering a 0.96 goals-against average along the way. After leading Tyler Junior College to a national title in 2015, the Kings High School alum has compiled a pair of tremendous seasons for UConn. Hauser-Ramsey’s stalwart defending, technical acuity and organizational skills earned him AAC First Team honors, as well as a spot on the All-East Region Third Team.
Nick Hinds (Akron University, Sophomore)
While he may have played fewer minutes in his sophomore season, the former left back cranked up his offensive production in 2017, compiling six goals and four assists from just 907 minutes of action. The Roosevelt High School grad once again showed up in the biggest moments as he sent the Zips through to the NCAA Tournament with a crucial assist in the MAC title game. Creative, skilled and athletic, Hinds is capable of playing anywhere across the pitch. He might make a return to left back, where he featured regularly for various U.S. Youth National Teams, in 2018 as his Akron teammate, Joao Moutinho, is a likely candidate for a Generation adidas contract.
Paul Christensen (University of Portland, Senior)
The latest in a long line of quality goalkeepers to come through the Pilots’ program, Christensen capped off his college career with a strong senior season. A former starter with the U.S. U-17 residency program, Christensen’s overall game grew leaps and bounds throughout his tenure in Portland. With 283 saves and 20 shutouts across four seasons, the Woodinville native etched his name into the UP record books alongside the likes of Luis Robles and Sounders legend Kasey Keller. Favorably compared to MLS and USMNT shot-stopper Nick Rimando, Christensen’s command of the box and shot-stopping abilities portend a bright future at the next level.
Jackson Ragen (University of Michigan, Freshman)
A teammate of IU goalkeeper Trey Muse while with the Sounders Academy, Ragen took the momentum from his fantastic U-18 season into his freshman year, making 16 appearances with 10 starts for one of college soccer’s perennial powerhouses. The University Prep alum’s high soccer IQ and soft feet saw him play as a center back and a defensive midfielder for the Wolverines. On a squad that has historically relied on upperclassmen, Ragen forced his way into the lineup with his composed, intelligent displays in the Big Ten, and his performances helped Michigan lock up an NCAA Tournament berth. And with 897 minutes at the college level under his belt, the young defender is poised for a breakthrough season in 2018.
