Michigan State men’s soccer announced four new recruits shortly after the season ended, bringing in young talent to replace several departing players. Midfielder Dominic Dono, goalkeeper Ezra Horlings, midfielder Drew Rensing and defender Bilal Obeid have all officially signed to represent the Spartans.
The Rensing name is well known around DeMartin Stadium thanks to head coach Damon Rensing, who took over in 2009, and his son Drew will follow in his footsteps by representing the Spartans on the field. Drew won’t be the only legacy player on the roster next season, though. Midfielder Colin Arce, entering his senior year at MSU, is the son of a former Spartan who played from 1998–2001 under Damon, who was an assistant coach at the time.
"I chose Michigan State because growing up in the Spartan Family, it was a dream of mine," Drew Rensing said. "There is no place I would rather be than here, competing for championships."
Drew Rensing, is an attacking midfielder who has spent the last 7 years playing with the Michigan Wolves, where he has grown his talents, earning him an offer from the Spartans. Drew is set to graduate in December and join the team in January where he will begin taking classes.
Dono played club soccer for the Michigan Jaguars and has been featured in several MLS NEXT tournaments, showcasing his talents across the country. The Plymouth, Michigan, native decided to stay local, committing to MSU, where he will look to make an impact in midfield next season.
"I chose MSU because of the balance between culture and competition," Dono said. "The culture of a family is maintained, while competing to win and be the best."
Obeid made history when he signed an academy contract with Detroit City FC, becoming the youngest player in club history to make the first-team roster at 17. He made his debut on July 26 and has totaled four appearances for the club. Obeid brings professional-level experience to MSU and will help bolster the defensive line.
"MSU felt like home from the start. The coaches, players, and culture made this decision an easy one," Obeid said. "I am excited to be part of the brotherhood and get to work."
Horlings, a shot stopper for the 2007 Michigan Jaguars MLS NEXT team, will join the Spartan’s goalkeeper union and fight for the vacant starting spot between the sticks at DeMartin. He adds much needed depth and competition in a goalkeeping room that has just lost two experienced seniors.
"I chose MSU because of the healthy environment between players and coaches, and because I wanted to compete at the highest level and win championships," Horlings said.
Four new players joining the Green and White next season bring plenty of excitement with their potential and will be aiming to make an immediate impact — like midfielder Peter Soudan, who earned Big Ten Freshman of the Year honors this season.
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