Men's soccer adds four new players to 2018 recruiting class

May 7, 2018

COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina men’s soccer announced the addition of four new players to its 2018 spring recruiting class Monday morning. Elijah Bebout, Ryan Bilichuk, Nick Guido and Maceon Urueta will be joining the Gamecocks for the upcoming season in the fall.

With the four new signees, Carolina will welcome in nine new players to its roster when camp opens in early August.

The 2017 Gamecocks went 6-9-2 (2-4-2 C-USA) and missed the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2014. Expectations will be high as Carolina returns an experienced bunch of 15 letterwinners, including 18 of its 21 goals and 16 of the team’s 24 assists.

Elijah Bebout (D) – Denton, N.C.

• Son of David and Rachelle and has one sibling, a sister – Cassie.
• Captained and played club for Palmetto United in South Carolina.
• Has spent past several years playing in Spain, most recently playing for Club La Vall.
• Began playing career overseas after being selected to play for Levante U.D. in Valencia in 2015.
• Spent time with the Tri-Cities Otters of the PDL this summer in Johnson City, Tenn.
• Enjoys watching The Office and list playing in his first game of the Mediterranean International Cup as his greatest athletic thrill.

Head Coach Mark Berson on Bebout

“Eli is a left-sided defender who will strengthen us in the back line. He can play as a center back or an outside back. Eli has played at a high-level in Spain during his high school career. He has a good knowledge of the game, and very good technical ability on the ball.”

Ryan Bilichuk (GK) – Falls Church, Va.

• Son of Alejandro and Pam.
• Spent time at ASU Preparatory Academy in Casa Grande, Ariz. and played for Barca Academy, FC Barcelona’s official residency soccer academy in the USA.
• Also spent time at the D.C. United Academy.
• Attended George C. Marshall High School prior to the ASU Prep Academy.
• Plans to major in sport and entertainment management.
• Likes to play chess and watch soccer in his leisure time.

Head Coach Mark Berson on BIlichuk

“Ryan has all the qualities that we look for in a top-flight goalkeeper. He has good size and athleticism, and his reactions are excellent. He’s an fantastic shot stopper and can command his box in the air. He’s had excellent training and competition with the Barca Academy out in Arizona.”

Nick Guido (M) – Matthews, N.C.

• Son of Vincenzo and Charlene. Has a younger brother Vincent and an older sister Carlye.
• Played club for the CSA Development Academy
• Was a two-time state champion with Charlotte United and played on a team that was ranked No. 1 in the nation from 2011-12.
• Plans to major in business and lists Conor McGregor as his favorite athlete.
• Chose South Carolina for the unbelievable facilities, great academics and proximity to home.

Head Coach Mark Berson on Guido

“Nick is a central midfielder who is comfortable in both an attacking and defending role. He has a good work rate, and good vision. He is a very versatile player who can fill a number of roles for us.”

Maceon Urueta (M) – Taylors, S.C.

• Son of Benjamin and Regina.
• Captain and four-year letterwinner at Blue Ridge High School in Greer, S.C.
• Played club for CESA, winning a state title in 2016.
• Two-time all-tournament selection at the Byrnes Invitational Cup and two-time all-region honoree.
• Plans to major in political science or architecture.

Head Coach Mark Berson on Urueta

“Maceon is a central midfielder who can solidify the midfield line both defensively and going forward. His ability to read the game and to win tackles are two of his strongest attributes. He has an excellent work ethic.”