DURHAM, N.C. - Soccer America recently released its list of eight freshmen of influence and Duke University midfielder Nick Palodichuk is among the eight chosen as players expected to make an immediate impact. He is among five freshmen from the ACC on the list.

Palodichuk, the 2010 Parade Magazine National Player of the Year, was a member of the United States U-17 National Team at the 2009 Under-17 World Cup. He registered a goal against Italy during the tournament. The native of Battleground, Wash., was picked as an ESPN Rise All-American and was labeled as the nation's No. 2 overall recruit by TopDrawerSoccer.com.

Here is what Soccer America had to say about Palodichuk. 

"After scoring against Italy at the 2009 Under-17 World Cup, Palodichuck received feelers from several European clubs but stuck to his decision to accept a scholarship from Duke. He should add some needed punch to the Blue Devils' attack."

Duke officially kicks off the 2011 season on Aug. 26 at UNC Greensboro at 8 p.m. Fans can follow live stats and a live blog at GoDuke.com. The Blue Devils open their home campaign on Sept. 2 against UC Santa Barbara at 7:30 p.m.  

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