I was going to this past Monday, but it’s been a busy week here in Huntingdon as we gear up for AAU’s! As always, the players below are listed in alphabetical order, as we at FrogJump do not rank incoming freshmen. However, below are some faces I believe we should get to know, as I feel they’ll make an impact on their teams in the 2027 season. Parents, do not email me asking “why was my athlete not listed”… you will not like my response. Dive into part II!
Aidan Gunderson – Middle Blocker – California Lutheran
Nothing better than a big middle with a whip, and Gunderson is a walking highlight reel. Cal Lutheran is in good position to make a run next year given their returning talent, and Gunderson gives them an extra offensive option in the middle behind Wilcox and Rowell.
Andrew Jennette – Opposite – Wentworth
Giant lefty opposites don’t grow on tree’s, and Andrew Jennette is most definitely a big tree. The 6’8 product from Long Island has the hallmarks of a future DIII All-American, and strengthens what is already looking like a very good freshmen class for the Leopards.
Wentworth went back and forth last year with Dubcak splitting time between the left and right, Jennette should provide them the option to keep Dubcak on the outside assuming his serve receive holds.
Andrew McKinnon – Middle Blocker – Southern Virginia
The Knights address a need at middle this summer with McKinnon coming back following a mission trip. Tolman will need all the help following the departures of Forese, Wadsworth, and Ward. The Knights will always be good as long as Peterson is there, and I bet McKinnon won’t be the only newcomer helping speed up the rebuild.
Jack Stanley – Middle Blocker – Springfield
It’s hard to say any team that wins a national championship had a “hole” on the roster, but if there was a place Springfield lacked true depth last year it was at Middle Blocker.
They definitely addressed that need this year, highlighted with the commitment of 6’6 Middle Blocker Jack Stanley. The Massapequa native will find time sooner or later, and likely be a fixture of Springfield success throughout his career.
Erick Vazquez – Outside/Opposite – Juniata
Not many DIII prospects enter the landscape with international playing experience, but Erick Vazquez does. The 6’4 Opposite comes to Huntingdon following stints playing with the Puerto Rican U17 national team.
With the ability to play both pins, Vazquez presents an exciting opportunity for the Eagles following the graduation of Opposite Tyler Phillips. Combined with the rest of their incoming class, the Eagles have truly reloaded for the 2027 season.