VILLANOVA, Pa. -Zach Zandi, a midfielder who made a mark as a member of the Philadelphia Union Developmental squad, is the first member of the Villanova Wildcats' incoming class of freshmen, it was announced today.

"Zach is a big time player," stated head coach Tom Carlin. "We are extremely excited about having him join the Villanova family. He is the perfect fit for our community and his presence will be felt immediately within our community and on the field."

"On the field, he has the perfect blend of a hard-working attitude and top talent at the central midfield position. He immediately makes us better with his ability to ignite our attack in the middle of the field."

Since 2013, Zandi has been a starter for the Union MLS U18 Academy Team. He has also been a part of the Union U17 MLS Generation Adidas Cup Team (2012) and U16 MLS Academy Team (2011-2012). Since 2010, he has also been a pool player for the U.S. Soccer National Training Center.