Sports
Caveman athletes commit to colleges
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
Seventeen senior athletes from American Fork High School who have accepted offers to continue their playing careers at the next level in 10 sports were honored at a school ceremony on Feb. 4 in “The Cave.” All but four were on hand for the festivities.
The sports represented included baseball, boys basketball, girls and boys cross country, football, boys and girls golf, girls soccer, boys tennis and girls volleyball.
“One of the best parts of the signing event is seeing all of the coaches, teachers, friends and family who have supported these student athletes along their journeys,” said Principal Peter Glahn.
“It is such a significant achievement to be accepted into these collegiate programs, and it takes a village to get these kids to that level.”
The non-statistical information included below is excerpted from what was provided by the families of the players for the signing ceremony narration and is shown in quotation marks.
BASEBALL
Bode Gaggero, INF – Salt Lake Community College
Gaggero hit .409 last spring for the state champion Cavemen. He had 38 hits, 38 runs scored and 23 RBI with 10 hits for extra bases plus he stole successfully nine times. He tallied a 94 percent fielding percentage and also made six appearances on the bump, earning three saves.
“From an early age it was clear Bode had a passion for baseball. Bode has always been a hard worker, a great teammate and is very coachable. He enjoys high-level competition and loves to play the game with his teammates, win or lose. He has been a part of two AF state championships and is eager to win a third. He moved into the American Fork program from our rival team in eighth grade because he loves the Cavemen’s gritty style of baseball, the incredible coaching staff and the type of players that make up this successful program. He is grateful for the opportunity to play for Coach Ingersoll, Coach Johnson, Coach Holmstead, Coach Jeppson, Coach Mascaro and Coach Jones and all of the amazing teammates he has had the opportunity to share the field with. We cannot thank you all enough for the opportunity to play for the winningest program in the state of Utah.”
Kenny Johnson, 3B/RHP – Salt Lake Community College
In 12 appearances as a pitcher last year, Johnson was undefeated at 5-0 and also earned two saves. He batted .269 and more than half of his hits were doubles.
“From an early age, Kenny has always loved the game of baseball and being part of a team. Kenny couldn’t wait to get home from school to put on his jersey, wristbands, necklaces, sunglasses, arm sleeve, and anything else that was in style at the time. We are proud of the way you have always competed and your desire to get better. Overcoming some serious injuries your sophomore year shows your competitiveness and toughness that’s going to help you in life. As parents, we will always remember how you helped your team last year on its way to another state championship and earning 6A playoff MVP. Keep working hard, being a good teammate, and serving others.”
Cache Poulson, C/OF – Brigham Young University (Provo)
Poulson swung a big bat for the Cavemen last season, hitting .432 with 41 hits including nine for extra bases and 37 RBI. He was perfect as a fielder as well, recording 186 putouts, two assists and no errors.
“Cache’s experience as a student and baseball player at American Fork High School has shaped both the player and person he has become thanks to his teammates, coaches, teachers and the administration. He has been fortunate to be a 4-year varsity starter, win two state titles, soon to be a third, been awarded All-Valley, All-Region and All-State honors and recognized by the Deseret News as a member of Utah’s baseball Elite 9 and nominated for Utah’s Mr. Baseball. Cache has the unique ability to work. His work ethic isn’t in just working hard but doing it every day without needing or looking for recognition and a lot of times when people are not watching. His ability to balance life and baseball has also been important. His family, church, maintaining a 4.0 in the classroom and his friends have been his outlets away from the game. He wants to thank his family, coaches and teammates, whose trust, guidance and shared commitment pushed him to grow on and off the field.”
BOYS BASKETBALL
Bryce Mella, G – Utah State University (Logan)
Mella is averaging about 17 points, six rebounds and three assists per game for the Cavemen, who are one of the favorites in the 6A state title race this year. He has also made 22 triples and 24 steals.
“Bryce Mella is recognized as both a natural leader and versatile team player. Although he has scored over 1,300 points and accumulated 300 rebounds during his high school career, Bryce’s true ‘superpowers’ are his coachability and his rare ability to truly see people with kindness. Bryce is quick to credit his growth to the AFHS basketball community. He would like his fellow signees, teammates and coaches to know that success is shared. He feels a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to play basketball here, where he has gained a lifelong fellowship of brothers and the invaluable mentorship of Coach Cuff and the entire coaching staff. As he prepares for the opportunity to become an Aggie, he carries with him the lessons of hard work and determination.”
GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY
Kayla Bushman – College of Southern Idaho (Twin Falls)
“Kayla works hard in the classroom and on the track. Kayla has represented AFXC as a team captain for the past two years. She will focus on completing her associate’s degree at CSI prior to moving on to the next level. Kayla started running in junior high. She fell in love with the sport mainly because of her teammates and coaches, but also the feeling of accomplishment that comes with each workout and race. Kayla has loved running the past several years with her older sister Kenadee. Thank you to Coach Bruno for always pushing me to reach my goals and teaching me the importance of hard work. Thanks to coach Janae Richardson for believing in me and my potential.”
Kate Piccolo – Snow College (Ephraim)
“Ever since discovering a love for running in the seventh grade, Kate Piccolo has dedicated herself to hard work, consistency and determination. Despite having moments of injury and other health challenges, she has steadily progressed over the years, improving her cross-country 5K time from 27:30 to 19:53. In track, she has run 5:38 in the mile and 2:34 in the 800 meters. Kate was a team captain for the AFHS cross-country team in 2025. As a track athlete, she has twice earned a varsity letter and been part of two state championship teams. Kate has a 4.0 GPA and will complete eight AP courses by the time she graduates. She is excited to commit to Snow College for cross country and track and has a full academic scholarship.”
BOYS CROSS COUNTRY
Austin Plewe – Brigham Young University (Provo)
“Austin showed up to cross country practice the summer before his freshman year and after one week knew he had found his place. Over the last four years, Austin has traveled the country with the AF cross country and track program where his team finished second and fifth at Nike Cross Nationals. On the track he has been honored to be a Nike, New Balance and Running Lane All-American in the 800m, mile, and mile relays. Austin feels very blessed to have the opportunity to run at BYU after he returns from an LDS mission. Austin’s greatest memories of running in high school are the work ethic he has learned from Coach Timo and the friends he has made on his team and from other teams in the state and throughout the country.”
FOOTBALL
Octavious Luna, WR (6-2, 195) – Ogden Jets
The Ogden Jets, one of Utah’s first private teams, are committed to helping post-high school players develop academically, athletically, and physically so they can reach their ultimate goal: playing major college football.
“Your athletic drive has always wowed those around you and you have been known for your big smile. But what you should be most proud of isn’t just your athletic talent or the way you can turn a room around with your fun spirit, it’s the strength you’ve shown through challenges, the genuine care you give to others, and the grit that pushes you forward. You have shown resilience and leadership in challenging times. Continue to live your days with integrity, trusting in Christ to complete the work he has started in you. The next opportunity is ready for you.”
Jaybian Na’a, NG/DT (6-2, 280) – Utah Tech University (St. George)
Na’a tallied 16 solo and 25 assisted tackles including 5.5 tackles for a loss (2.5 sacks) with two fumbles caused and one recovered during last year’s fall campaign. The Trailblazers played in the Western Athletic Conference under Coach Lance Anderson this season, but the school will be joining the Big Sky Conference in 2026.
Dyson Richards, TE/WR (6-5, 220) – Weber State University (Ogden)
Richards collected 33 receptions for 335 yards and four touchdowns this season with 25 catches for 276 yards as a junior. The Wildcats earned a 4-8 record this year and were 2-6 in the Big Sky Conference, which competes in the Division I Football Championship Subdivision with ESPN+ as their broadcast partner.
Carson Thorne, T/DT (6-5, 280) – Utah State University (Logan)
“Carson loves football. He has a competitive drive to do his best. Carson has loved his time with American Fork football. It has shaped who he is and who he wants to be. The opportunity to represent himself, his family, his coaches and the Caveman football program is an honor and has helped elevate him every day. He has thrived in leading himself and his teammates to get better. As a junior, Carson received All-Region honorable mention. As a senior, Carson received first team All-Region and second team All-State. Watching Carson be challenged and work for what he loves has been an amazing experience. It is impossible to show his deep gratitude to the training staff, Garrett, his coaches and his teammates. He loves them and is grateful for them. They will forever be his Caveman football family. He is grateful for his parents and his family, and recognizes that none of this would be possible without their support. Carson will continue to strive for greatness every single day and looks forward to meeting challenges head on. He is excited for what the future holds and cannot wait to get back on the football field.”
GIRLS GOLF
Tyler Dunkley – Hastings College (NB)
“Tyler is able to go to school there and golf because of her hard work and ‘all in’ approach to all aspects of her life. Everything Tyler does is 100 percent and it shows in her accomplishments. Tyler started relatively late to the sport of golf. She was a very gifted distance runner but due to injury she had to trade the spikes for clubs and she never looked back. Some of her accomplishments include: Jr PGA and US Kids golf league top 5 finishers all seasons competed and captain and varsity golfer for all three seasons she’s competed for the Cavemen. Off of the course she also excels, as a continuous 4.0 student taking multiple AP and concurrent college courses. We can’t wait to watch this special girl’s next chapter in life as a collegiate student, athlete, and leader. Tyler would like to thank her coaches, friends, and family for the love and support she has received.”
BOYS GOLF
Jack Davis – South Mountain Community College (Phoenix AZ)
Davis led his team all season this past fall, tying for 10th place in the individual medalist standings at the 6A state tournament, leading his team which finished fifth after nearly missing the cut the first day to continue in the tournament. He earned third place in the Region 3 medalist race.
GIRLS SOCCER
Julie Huddleston, MF – Snow College (Ephraim)
“Julie is outstanding on and off the field. She has played soccer with Celtic for 11 years and all four years of high school with AFHS. On both teams she has played down the spine of the field as center back, 6, 10 and 9. She has been called the “best 6 in the state” by her coaches and has been invited to a Youth National Team recruiting event. Her sophomore year she scored 10 goals for American Fork, helping them finish second in the state. As a defensive player she was an offensive force as she would come in clutch assisting and scoring. She has been an athletic leader on the soccer team as a player and as a captain. As a student she has a 4.0 and has taken 10 AP and honors classes. She is fluent in French and has been the French Student of the Month. She serves the school community as a member of the Seminary Committee. Snow is very lucky to sign someone of Julie’s caliber.”
Stori Jones, D – Weber State University (Ogden)
“Stori is the only girl with three brothers, and growing up alongside them has made her strong, resilient and fearless. She learned early how to stand her ground and defend herself, qualities that now define her both on and off the field. She came to soccer later than most, but once she found the game, she fell in love. As a center back, she chooses the position with the most action, where toughness, leadership, and heart matter most. She plays club soccer for Celtic in the GA League and gives everything she has to the game. At just 14 years old, Stori tore her ACL and was forced to sit out an entire year. That injury became one of her greatest teachers. Through hard work, patience, and determination, she fought her way back to the field, emerging mentally tougher and more driven than ever.”
BOYS TENNIS
Braeden Johnson – Brigham Young University (Provo)
This past spring, Johnson was the top-ranked player in the 6A classification and earned the gold medal as the No. 1 Singles bracket champion, helping to lead his team to the 6A state championship over Lone Peak.
In the title match, he faced off against senior defending state champion and No. 2 seed Calvin Armstrong of Skyridge. Armstrong easily won the first set 6-2, so Johnson had to come from behind to earn his gold medal. He proved equal to the task, securing the final two sets 6-4, 6-3.
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
Halle Smith, L/DS – Snow College (Ephraim)
Smith had an outstanding senior season for the Cavemen, contributing 339 digs, 79 assists and 423 serve-receives. She also had 11 kills and 32 aces with a serving percentage of 93.
“Halle has absolutely loved playing volleyball for American fork. She was named to the first team All-Region, received the Academic All-State award as well as receiving the first ‘Cavemen standard’ award from her coach. She will take so many amazing memories with her of the fun times with her teammates and the time and dedication of her many coaches over the last four years. She wouldn’t be here without their support. She is thrilled to be able to play at Snow College this fall and looks forward to creating more memories. Halle is a blast to be around, so happy and a friend to all. She is a born leader and a dedicated player and we can’t wait to see her excel in this next phase of life.”
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) has begun the biennial process of adjusting classification and region assignments for its member schools, which number 163 at present.
As has often been the case in recent years, some adjustments to the procedures to establish these assignments have been made in an attempt to refine the process based on results from the previous cycle’s alignments.
In a press release sent out Friday (Aug. 21), the UHSAA announced that the “Board of Trustees met and finalized the Formats and Procedures for the 2027-29 statewide alignment of member schools. The approved formats and procedures outline the process used to establish classifications and regions for UHSAA competition.
“The UHSAA conducts a statewide realignment of its member schools every two years to establish classifications and regions for competition.
“Beginning with the 2027-2029 alignment cycle, member schools are placed into classifications using a Composite Realignment Index (CRI), which combines school enrollment, socio-economic status (SES) and competitive performance.
“The UHSAA Board of Trustees establishes the number of schools in each classification and retains final authority over all classification and region assignments, including consideration of geographic factors and appeals.
“Realignment includes both a general alignment and a separate football alignment. Region assignments are finalized in December of even-numbered years, with competition under the new alignment beginning the following August.”
As indicated in this document, the Board will now apply a new “Composite Realignment Index (CRI)” as part of the realignment process. The UHSAA Handbook gives this explanation of what the CRI is and how it will be applied, as follows.
C. Procedures for the 2027-2029 Alignment of Schools as Adopted by the Board of Trustees
1. Classifications are based on October 1 data for junior and sophomore classes, excluding self-contained students, as reported by the State Office of Education in even calendar years.
2. UHSAA member schools shall be placed into classifications based on a Composite Realignment Index (CRI) score. The CRI score is calculated using a combination of enrollment (size), socio-economic status (SES), and competitive performance. The number of schools in each classification shall be established by the Board of Trustees (BOT). Schools will be assigned to classifications based on a CRI score with higher scores placed in higher classifications and lower scores placed in lower classifications. A school may submit an appeal for classification placement based on geographic considerations. The BOT will review all appeals and determine if an adjustment is warranted. The BOT retains the responsibility and final authority for alignment of all UHSAA member schools.
3. To accommodate geographic adjustments, regions may have schools in different classifications.
Since this is the first time the CRI has been used, it’s uncertain at this point how the local high schools will be affected by this change. In addition to these modifications, “Section B. Format” includes the following new language.
5. Prior to the first consideration of assigned regions or divisions, any school may apply to compete in a higher classification for a specific sport or activity if the school is already competing at that higher level in that sport or activity, or if it has finished with an average in the top 15 percent of its classification in that sport during the past three seasons.
Application does not guarantee approval. Once a school is placed in a higher classification, it must remain there for that sport or activity for the full duration of the established two-year alignment. In the general alignment, schools will remain in their assigned classification and region during region competition. However, the school will compete in the higher classification for postseason competition.
Under the system used in the previous realignment, Wasatch joined Region 3 for swimming only and Jordan joined the league for baseball only. Both of these schools had a definite impact on the course of competition last school year.
The way the process turned out last time, there was a large disparity between the sizes of the classifications. There are 17 schools in Class 6A but twice that number, 34, in Class 4A and 29 in Class 5A now. These three classes include most schools in the more urban areas of the state.
For the next cycle, the Trustees have decided that the minimum number of schools in each general classification as well as each football classification will be 21 for Classes 6A, 5A and 4A, and a minimum of eight for the smaller-school classifications.
This will likely mean that some schools which successfully petitioned to move down in classification in the last cycle will be relocated to the competition level they previously escaped.
Since Class 6A is going to add a minimum of four more schools, there are likely to be changes in Region 3 for our local institutions as well. It has been very challenging to fill schedules with only four schools to play in league competition.
The size of classifications matters for an additional reason now. Starting in the present school year, only 16 schools per classification will advance to the state tournaments, eliminating the preliminary rounds that used to allow more schools to participate in post-season play.
For the moment, the RPI index will be the determining factor, but other formulas are under consideration for future use.
The timeline for the 2027-29 realignment cycle starts with a first meeting on November 19 when the initial classification placement of all schools based on the new CRI will be presented.
In the second meeting on December 1, schools may apply for a higher classification in a specific sport or activity, and geographic adjustments will be considered. In addition, there will be a second consideration of classification placement and a first consideration of region assignments.
A week later, on December 8, there will be a Zoom public hearing at 6:30 p.m. followed by a second consideration of assigned regions the next morning (Dec. 9) at 9 a.m.
Final placements are scheduled to be announced on December 17. However, last year some appeals were made after this date, and the resulting adjustments had Region 1 and Region 3 ending up with just five schools each while Region 2 had seven.
The American Fork Citizen will continue to follow all the developments as the realignment process continues.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork High School girls tennis team won the North bracket of the Utah Valley Ashton Invitational tennis tournament on August 14 and 15 at various locations in north Utah County.
This tournament includes four singles and three doubles positions. The Cavemen played at home for the duration and started the event against Provo, sweeping the match 7-0. However, they then fell to a strong Deer Creek squad 5-2.
American Fork went on to top Woods Cross 4-3 to reach the North bracket final against Green Canyon, and they won that match 4-3 as well for a strong finish.
“It was an excellent tournament with great competition,” said Coach Jason Herrud. “We have a group of girls that are all playing in different positions than last season, so we have a lot of growing and learning to be excited about.
“The Ashton tournament is an excellent test since many of the best teams in the state get to compete regardless of the classification,” he added. “Our region is stacked this year once again and it’s going to be a fun ride going against the best week in and week out.”
The Cavemen mixed up their customary lineup against the Wolves to experience some different perspectives as they played.
In the No. 1 Singles match, senior Rylee Egbert fell to Sophie Anderson 4-1, 4-1. At Second Singles, senior Claire Corbridge worked hard to defeat Evelyn Wilkinson 4-3 (4), 1-4, 10-8.
Green Canyon’s Carly Huish won the No. 3 Singles match over senior Bentley Christensen 4-1, 4-0. However, in Fourth Singles, senior Lacey Ernst got American Fork’s second win with a 4-3 (6), 4-0 victory over Amelia Wilkinson.
In No. 1 Doubles, seniors Demi Dalton and Ella Harris battled against Nora Wash and Ruby Warn, winning the second set but ultimately bowing out 4-1, 2-4, 10-5.
The Cavemen claimed the remaining two doubles bouts to prevail in the match. In the No. 2 pairing, seniors Halie Andrews and Macy Murdoch swept Addie Jenson and Ellie Jones 4-1, 4-0.
At Third Doubles, sophomores Lyla Wood and Eva Littlefield had to work a little harder but triumphed 4-2, 4-3 (3) over Piper May and Sofia Raymond.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork boys golf team came in fourth at the first Region 3 tournament on Monday (Aug. 17) at the Mountain Dell Canyon Course in Parley’s Canyon east of Salt Lake City.
To no one’s surprise, Lone Peak won the event with a 282, but Lehi wasn’t far behind at 287 and surprised Corner Canyon at 290. American Fork tallied a 302 to just edge Skyridge at 303.
Junior Sam Fairbanks and Sam Bitner each shot a 74 to post the best results for the Cavemen at this event. Junior Landon Lieu was right behind them with 75, and junior Cade Henneman completing the counted scores with a tally of 79.
The other varsity participants included junior Cash Van Buren and senior Wes Brown, each with 80 strokes, plus senior Chad Douglass at 83 and junior Ben Davis at 85.
Sophomore James Smith was the low scorer for the JV squad with a 78. He was followed by freshman Jude Price at 80, sophomore Jett Miller at 83 and freshman Colt Garner with an 84 to provide the team tally of 325.
Additional golfers included junior Cutter Garner and Brayden Stolk with 85 apiece, senior Hawk Rosenvall at 90 and Tate Marsing with a 92.
The next Region 3 tournament is scheduled for Wednesday (Aug. 26) at the River Oaks Golf Course in Sandy.
NOAH BEHM
GRADE: 12
SPORT: Football
POSITIONS: Wide Receiver, Defensive Back
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:
In the Pleasant Grove game on Aug. 14, Noah had one reception for a 51-yard touchdown, one assisted and three solo tackles for four combined, plus one Interception returned 80 yards for another touchdown.
EDITOR’S COMMENTS:
It’s a rare thing for any football player to score both an offensive and a defensive touchdown in the same game, but Noah did just that against the Vikings in impressive fashion, racing ahead of his pursuers in both cases for huge yardage on the way to providing critical points for his team in their come-from-behind victory.
– Beky Beaton
Sponsored by Axio Wealth Management.
DALIN AFU
GRADE: 12
SPORT: Football
POSITION: Defensive Lineman
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:
In the Pleasant Grove game on Aug. 14, Dalin recorded two solo and three assisted tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss, and one forced fumble which he also recovered and returned for a 10-yard touchdown.
EDITOR’S COMMENTS:
Dalin kept pressure on the Pleasant Grove offense all night in whatever way he could, making plays which resulted in negative yardage for the Vikings. He also ended a drive which was nearing the goal line by forcing a fumble, then alertly picking up the ball and diving across that line for the score to help lift his team to victory.
– Beky Beaton
Sponsored by Axio Wealth Management.
Jefferson Penrod / American Fork Citizen
Despite some early struggles, the American Fork football team defeated the Pleasant Grove Vikings 36-16 in the season opener at Pleasant Grove on Friday (Aug. 14).
The Cavemen were able to bounce back from two turnovers that put them in an early 0-9 hole. After touchdowns on back-to-back possessions gave American Fork a 15-9 lead, the Cavemen never looked back and didn’t trail by less than six points for the remainder of the game.
On the second play from scrimmage, American Fork senior quarterback Nate Childs threw an interception that the Vikings returned for a touchdown.
On the third play of the ensuing Caveman offensive drive, Childs was picked off again by the Vikings, who returned that interception to the American Fork two-yard line.
With their backs against the wall, the Caveman defense stood tall and held Pleasant Grove to a field goal just six feet away from the goal line.
“It’s huge as you go through a season,” American Fork head Coach Aaron Behm said about relying on his defense. “Tonight we needed the defense to pick us up a little bit, and they did.”
The defense certainly did carry its weight. The Cavemen had three takeaways, including an 80-yard pick-six of their own courtesy of senior safety Noah Behm to open the third quarter, as well as a strip sack recovered for a 10-yard touchdown by senior defensive lineman Dallin Afu in the fourth quarter.
Afu’s score acted as the exclamation point for a defensive unit which allowed only three points all night. Afu also had five combined tackles including two sacks in the game and caused the fumble he recovered.
Despite the early offensive struggles, the Cavemen were able to get the ball moving. After the first two turnover-ended possessions, American Fork turned to sophomore Jake Matsen at the quarterback position.
Matsen’s first possession under center led to the first Caveman touchdown of the game, a 51-yard screen pass from Matsen to Noah Behm, who got snaps on both sides of the ball. Senior running back Tani Vaki converted a two-point try to close the gap to a single point at 8-9.
American Fork senior corner Hayden Reutzel picked off a deflected pass from Viking quarterback Cannon Jacobson on the subsequent Pleasant Grove possession, giving the Cavemen the ball in the red zone.
Vaki punched it into the endzone from the 1-yard line with 3:39 left in the first quarter. American Fork would take that 15-9 lead into halftime as the teams were scoreless in the second period.
Matsen added a seven-yard touchdown pass to senior tight end Zach Cowie early in the final quarter, and ended his day completing 14-of-24 (58%) of his passes for 161 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.
Junior wide receiver Cash Taiese had seven receptions for 83 yards as the only American Fork player with more than two catches. The ground game managed to net just 12 yards in the contest, but senior running back DC Fonua had eight carries for 22 yards and also had two kickoff returns for 51 yards.
“We’re just trying to find continuity,” Coach Behm said about the up-and-down offensive play. “No matter which guy was in [at quarterback], we didn’t play to the standard we want to offensively… we want to stay on the field and move the ball.”
Notwithstanding the shakiness from the offense, the Caveman defense took over the game. The defensive line, led by Afu, hurried the Pleasant Grove backfield all night long, and the secondary stood up to the Viking passing attack.
Senior linebacker Sam Thompson was the leading tackler for American Fork in the contest with six solo and nine combined including two sacks. Junior linebacker Ty Wilson, sophomore defensive back Brayden Litke and senior linebacker Mason Peterson each registered eight combined tackles.
The season opener, despite the win, was by no means mistake-free. In addition to the three giveaways, the Cavemen had some other mental errors: a pair of roughing the passer calls extended Pleasant Grove offensive drives, and a kickoff return for a touchdown drew the Vikings within 13 points in the 4th.
Even with these mistakes, the result was a controlled American Fork victory to kick off the 2026 campaign. “I told our guys before the game that this was all that was left to do,” Behm said. “It [was] time to play a four-quarter football game, and that was a lot of fun tonight.”
The Cavemen will travel to Santa Ana, California, to take on perennial national powerhouse Mater Dei on Friday (Aug. 21). They then will make the trip to Provo to take on the Timpview Thunderbirds on August 28, before the home opener on September 4 hosting the Farmington Phoenix.
Photos by Sam Penrod.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork football team will kick off their 2026 season on the road at longtime rival Pleasant Grove for an endowment game Friday (Aug. 14) at 7 p.m. under head Coach Aaron Behm, who is entering his 17th season at the helm for the Cavemen.
He has the luxury of fielding a returning starter at the quarterback position in senior Nate Childs (6-foot-3, 200 lbs.). Although initially sharing time with another player for the spot last year, he became the full-time starter when his teammate suffered a season-ending injury.
Childs appeared in 10 of 12 games in 2025, completing 119-of-205 (58%) passes for 1,533 yards and nine touchdowns with eight interceptions. His backup this season will be sophomore Jake Matsen (6-3, 185).
Three of the team’s top four targets from last year also return. Junior Cash Taiese (6-0, 160) was the leading receiver with 49 catches for 663 yards and four touchdowns. He also scored five times on the ground.
Third in yards gained was junior Ty Holmstead (6-2, 190) with 21 catches for 663 yards and two touchdowns. Senior tight end Christian Hanshaw (6-5, 230) was fourth with 27 catches for 356 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Zach Cowie (6-1, 175) is the new face in the group.
With their top rushers from last year graduated, Behm said American Fork will rely on senior DC Fonua (5-11, 175) as the primary running back this year. He’ll be protected by an offensive line anchored by seniors Talon Roberts (6-2, 270) and Xander Voeller (5-11, 255).
On the other side of the ball, the Cavemen still have a playmaker in senior defensive lineman Dalin Afu (6-2, 240), who tallied 15 solo and 28 assisted tackles for 43 total, including 15 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks and two blocked field goals.
Also back is senior Sam Merten (5-9, 150), who contributed 24 combined tackles and five sacks last season. He’ll be joined by senior linebackers Sam Thompson (6-1, 210), who supplied 23 combined tackles, two interceptions and three 3 deflections a year ago, plus Mason Peterson (6-0, 205), who tallied 28 combined tackles.
Leading in the secondary will be senior safety Noah Behm (6-0, 175). He provided 28 solo and 41 combined tackles in 2025 along with one interception, one fumble recovery and one reception for touchdowns plus a fumble caused. Junior Brayden Litke (5-11, 150) will man the cornerback slot.
Senior Jace Worthington (6-0, 175) takes over the primary kicking duties this time around. In four appearances a year ago, he was a perfect 8-for-8 in PATs and 2-for-2 in field goals.
Behm said his troops relish their tough league schedule. “All the coaches in this region do such a great job getting their teams ready to play and the talent level is so high that every week is exciting,” he said. “Our kids love playing against the best and the great environment that Region 3 games create.
“Traditionally the 6A champion has come from this region,” the coach continued. “This year Davis and Mountain Ridge look very strong. There are a lot of good non-region games that should give us an idea of where everyone stands headed into region play.”
With such a small pool in the league, American Fork has filled the calendar with strong teams to help prepare them for the “SEC of Utah football.” Next week they will head out to national power Mater Dei (Santa Ana, CA), followed by pre-league tilts against Timpview, Farmington, Layton and Davis.
Photos by Sam Penrod.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork High School girls volleyball team graduated a host of seniors last year but returns a pair of solid hitters and three other players with varsity experience to anchor the team this season.
The group is led by All-State senior outside hitter Macy Melville, who finished her junior season with 378 kills and averaged 4.2 kills, 2.8 digs and 6.0 serve-receives per set. She also laid down 60 ace serves and had 264 points plus 16 combined blocks and 25 assists.
Also back is another senior hitter, Destinie Hampton, who tallied 211 kills and averaged 2.4 kills, 1.3 digs and 2.3 serve-receives per set. She also provided 43 aces and 193 points.
Senior setter Brynn Murray was a major contributor at the service line last season with 57 aces and 253 points along with 379 assists (4.2 per set). She made 63 kills, 27 combined blocks and 188 digs as well.
Junior opposite Alivia Lemon provided 97 kills, 25 aces, 82 points, 36 combined blocks and 32 digs a year ago, while junior middle blocker Daci Roberts added 66 kills, 16 aces, 47 points, 24 combined blocks and 23 digs.
“We are really looking forward to another very competitive season in our region and classification,” said Coach Melissa Guymon.
Aug. 6: Woods Cross 3, American Fork 1
On the road for their inaugural match of the new season, the Cavemen started well but ended up bowing to the Wildcats in four games 25-23, 22-25, 25-16, 25-15.
Melville led the attack with 13 kills and also supplied three combined blocks, six digs and 18 serve-receives to lead the effort. Hampton added six kills, led in digs with seven and also had 15 serve-receives.
Lemon served five aces with three kills while Murray made four kills, two aces, and 25 assists. Sophomore libero Calla Pranger collected six digs and 17 serve-receives. Senior libero Taanii Fielding took 23 serve-receives.
The Cavemen visit Mountain Ridge on Thursday (Aug. 13) at 6:30 p.m. They will then welcome Pleasant Grove on Tuesday (Aug. 18) at 6:30 p.m. and will later head south for a three-game road trip on the weekend.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork High School girls soccer team prevailed in their home opener after an exciting extra-time contest to get the fall campaign started under second-year head Coach Tara Taggert. The Cavemen then split a pair of road contests, falling at Davis but winning a thrilling contest at Syracuse.
American Fork graduated six seniors from last year’s team but returns the players responsible for half their goals and points from last year.
Senior forward and midfielder Cambree Ballard had seven goals and four assists in 2025 for 18 points to lead the group. Another versatile player in those same two roles, senior Suri Parsia, scored six goals last season for 12 more points. Senior center back Stori Jones added an additional score.
There are high expectations for the program this year as the Cavemen were ranked at No. 5 in the coaches preseason poll.
Aug. 4: American Fork 3, Mountain Ridge 2 (2OT)
In their first match, the Cavemen had the opportunity to exact some revenge at home against the Sentinels, who knocked them out of the 6A state tournament last year in the quarterfinals.
American Fork got the advantage with a score in the initial period and held the 1-0 lead to the break. However, the teams were knotted at 2-2 by the end of regulation time and neither found the target in the first extra period. The Cavemen won with a golden goal in the second overtime.
Sophomore forward Ivy Jacobson had a goal and an assist in the contest. Parsia and sophomore midfielder Sophie Judd each found the target once, while Ballard supplied a pair of assists.
Aug. 7: Davis 3, American Fork 0
In an away match, the Cavemen struggled to get the goal in the net against the top-ranked Darts and ultimately suffered a shutout loss.
Aug. 11: American Fork 3, Syracuse 1
The Cavemen rebounded to earn an upset over the second-ranked Titans on the road. The teams were even at one goal apiece after the first half, but American Fork hit the target twice in the second period and didn’t allow Syracuse any more goals to get the impressive win.
Ballard scored once and made one give to lead the effort. Parsia and sophomore midfielder Claira Connors added one goal apiece while senior defender Sophie Dunn and junior defender Abby Slater made the other two assists.
The Cavemen are on the move down south this weekend. They are scheduled to play at Snow Canyon on Thursday (Aug. 13) at 7:30 p.m. and are then set to take on Crimson Cliffs on Saturday (Aug. 15) at 8 a.m.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork boys golf team was just edged for third place in a four-team pre-season tournament on Monday (Aug. 10) at Lakeside Golf Course in West Bountiful against Weber, Skyridge and Cedar Valley.
The Cavemen posted a combined score of 291 for the day. The Warriors won the meet with a team score of 279 strokes, followed by the Falcons at 289 just two points ahead of American Fork. The Aviators finished fourth at 308.
Junior Landon Lieu posted the best score of the day for the Cavemen, tying for fourth place in the individual standings with an even-par 72.
Three of his teammates each posted a 73 for the other counted scores, including juniors Sam Fairbanks and Ben Davis plus senior Chad Douglass.
Other varsity participants included junior Cash Van Buren at 77, senior Wes Brown at 78, sophomore Jett Miller at 80 and junior Cade Henneman at 81.
This tournament included spots for a full junior varsity contingent as well. Skyridge won that competition with a 314, again just getting by American Fork at 316. Weber was third at 323 and Cedar Valley brought up the rear at 372.
For the Cavemen, freshman Will Zimmerman had the low card at 77, followed by sophomore James Smith and junior Cutter Garner at 79 apiece. Freshmen Colt Garner and Jude Price each recorded an 81, rounding out the combined team score for that group.
In addition, senior Hawk Rosenvall shot an 84, junior Hunter Nielsen made an 85 and junior James Norton finished with an 87.
Region 3 tournaments get underway Monday (Aug. 17) with the first event set at the Mountain Dell Canyon Course in Parley’s Canyon east of Salt Lake City.
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