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 defending state champion American Fork baseball team is going for a repeat title and the fourth in the last six years in this weekend’s 6A state championship series.
The Cavemen (22-8) were the top seed coming into the playoffs and have won five straight games to get to this point. They got started in the Super Regionals round with a sweep of No. 16 Farmington 8-4, 17-3.
American Fork next topped No. 9 Jordan 11-3 in the initial game of Bracket 1 play. The Cavemen played Lehi for the title last year but this time, both ended up in the same bracket so they had to face each other sooner.
The Pioneers were seeded No. 5 this season and American Fork won the first game 8-5. Lehi (18-12) beat No. 4 Riverton a second time to reach the bracket final, but the Cavemen prevailed 6-2 to advance to the title series.
There they will face a somewhat unexpected opponent and another Region 3 rival – No. 7 Skyridge (19-12). The Falcons have played through the entire tournament, besting No. 10 Copper Hills (15-12), No. 11 Corner Canyon (15-16) and upsetting No. 2 Mountain Ridge (23-8) twice to earn their ticket to the final.
The championship series starts tonight (May 22) at 7 p.m. at Utah Valley University. The second game is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, with a tiebreaker if necessary immediately following or at 7 p.m. after the if-needed 5A tiebreaker.
Megan Wallgren / American Fork Citizen
American Fork’s boys and girls track and field teams closed out another strong season at the 6A state championships May 14 and 16 at BYU, highlighted by state titles from seniors Ginger Ballstaedt and Kaden Fairbanks and a top-four team finish.
Despite graduating many of last year’s top scorers, the Cavemen again proved to be among the state’s elite 6A programs, showcasing their depth and balance by scoring in 12 of 18 events and setting four new school records.
American Fork finished fourth in both the boys and girls standings and fourth in the Varsity Combined competition as well. The 6A Boys title went to Herriman, the 6A Girls title to Corner Canyon, and the top Combined Varsity spot to district rival Lone Peak.
Fairbanks captured gold in the Boys 400-meter dash, running a personal-record 47.36 seconds and setting a new school record in the process. He also placed fifth in the 100m in 11.02 seconds, plus sixth in the 200m in 21.57 seconds, also a school record.
Fairbanks helped the Cavemen take fourth in the 4x400m relay with a time of 3:19.85 alongside freshman Lance Whitford, sophomore Oliver Widdison and senior Austin Plewe.
“It was fun to see all of our hard work come together,” Fairbanks said. “There were a lot of ups and downs. Some things were exciting and some things didn’t go how we had hoped but I know we’re all together as a team.”
Fairbanks said he tried to stay relaxed heading into the 400m final despite the pressure and excitement surrounding the race. “I had thought so much about this race leading up to it with all the excitement, but I had to just let it all go and have fun,” he said.
“I had some amazing competition in that race, and it pushed me to my limits. I just kept thinking over and over in my head throughout my race, ‘I got this!’
“When I finished, I knew it wasn’t just me, I couldn’t have done that on my own,” Fairbanks said. “The race finished and we got to celebrate. It was fun. It took a second to sink in and it hurt but the feeling was amazing. I had so much support and love. I’m so grateful.”
Ballstaedt added another state title to American Fork’s storied girls program by winning the Girls Long Jump with a mark of 17-feet-11-inches. Senior teammate Paris Laycock finished second at 17-9 feet, while senior Hannah Cluff took fifth at 16-7 feet, giving the Cavemen 22 points in the one event alone.
“In long jump, we had three AF girls place top five, and winning the state title for long jump was such a special moment for me,” Ballstaedt said. “All of these achievements I wouldn’t even have dreamed of getting last year, and I’m so happy I’ve done track and been a part of this team these past two seasons.”
Ballstaedt said her focus during the competition was staying composed and trusting her preparation. “I was mostly focused on staying calm and trusting my technique throughout the jumps,” she said.
“Before each one I quickly visualize what I need to do and the steps that I need to think about while jumping. I was trying to push for a PR, and when my first jump held on for the win it was super exciting.”
Ballstaedt also delivered as a member of American Fork’s girls sprint relay teams. “State was a great experience this year,” she said. “Our 4×100 and 4×200 both got second place and broke our school records, and our 4×100 got the fifth-fastest time in Utah history.”
The Girls 4x100m relay team posted a silver-medal time of 47.23 seconds with Ballstaedt, Cluff, Laycock and sophomore Rickeisha 0’Keefe.
In the Girls 4x200m relay, the team of Ballstaedt, Laycock, junior Charlotte Anderson and freshman Ivy Jacobson crossed in 1:39.39, the third-fastest time in Utah history. Also a strength for the sprint team, O’Keefe added a sixth-place finish in the 200m in 25.07 seconds.
Senior Ella Edwards finished her hurdle career with a pair of podium appearances, placing fourth in the 300m hurdles in 45.07 seconds and sixth in the 100m hurdles in 15.45 seconds.
Senior thrower Madden Jensen provided valuable points for the Cavemen with a pair of fourth-place finishes in the throwing events. Jensen placed fourth in the shot put with a mark of 56-5.75 feet and added another fourth in the discus at 161-9 feet.
American Fork continued its tradition of strong showings in the distance events with sophomore Chase Hejny earning silver in the 3200m in 9:04.49. For the girls distance squad, freshman Mae Glassford and junior Skye Jensen finished fifth in 10:58.95 and seventh in 11:10.38, respectively, in the girls 3200m.
The Boys 4x800m relay finished third with a time of 7:50.49. Running were Hejny, Plewe, senior Dallin Harrington and junior Cayden Vukich. Along with his relay contributions, Plewe took an individual bronze in the 800m with a time of 1:52.39.
Other standout performances for the Cavemen included senior James Sherratt, who placed sixth in the Boys Javelin with a throw of 153-7.0 feet, and freshman Maya Durrant, who cleared 5-0 feet to take sixth in the high jump.
American Fork coach Brett Myrup noted that the team was significantly younger this season but still managed to compete at the highest level. “This year’s team had a lot of new athletes to join a small core of veterans from last season, and it was amazing to see how well they did,” he said.
“We lost a lot of our athletes that scored points last year at State and we were still able to achieve fourth place in both boys and girls. We didn’t repeat our championships, but we fought hard and did some amazing things all season.”
Myrup said the future looks bright. “Both teams will be returning a significant amount of the top athletes in the state for next year. We were pretty young this year and next year we will once again be a top team in the state. “We should be able to make a good run at a state championship again. I expect to have scorers in almost every event next season,” the coach concluded.
Photos by Jim Ballard.
ANDI GARDNER
GRADE: 10
SPORT: Softball
POSITION: Outfielder
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS:
Gardner has been one of American Fork’s top offensive performers this season, batting .571 with a team-leading .714 on-base percentage. She also leads the team in runs scored and stolen bases. In a recent game, she went a perfect 3-for-3 with four runs, two RBI and a double.
COACH’S COMMENTS:
Andi has been a consistent spark at the top of our lineup. Her ability to get on base, create scoring opportunities, and apply pressure with her speed makes her a key contributor every game. She competes hard, brings great energy, and continues to develop into one of our most reliable all-around players.
– Coach Sara Park
Sponsored by the Utah National Guard.
Beky Beaton / Lehi Free Press
The American Fork girls golf team finished in fourth place in competitive Region 3 with an average adjusted team score of 348.7. Corner Canyon passed Lone Peak at the final event to win the league title with Skyridge finishing third.
American Fork’s Audrey New was an individual region medalist, placing 10th with an average adjusted score of 84.2. She is ranked No. 27 in the Class 6A standings and her team is listed at No. 9 in a tightly-packed grouping in the middle of the rankings.
The 6A state tournament is scheduled to be played Monday and Tuesday (May 18 and 19) at Davis Park Golf Course in Kaysville.
At the Region 3 tournament Wednesday (May 13) at River Oaks Golf Course in Sandy, the Cavemen posted a combined score of 343 to finish fourth. It was their best round of the season to date.
Sophie Davis carded an 81 to lead the team that day and her tally was the best one all season for American Fork.
New scored an 83, Ellorie Layne tallied an 88 and Abbie Bahr added a 91 to round out the counted scores. Annika Hess, Tyler Dunkley, Bryn Thatcher and Rachel Hale also competed for American Fork at this event.
Megan Wallgren / American Fork Citizen
The American Fork track and field teams turned in an impressive performance at the Region 3 Championships on May 6–7 at Lone Peak High School, competing in one of the state’s most competitive regions. Some team members did not participate in events where they had already qualified for State.
The Cavemen boys placed third with 94 points, finishing behind Lehi (152) and Corner Canyon (144), while the girls claimed second with 119 points behind Corner Canyon (162). American Fork totaled 213 points to take third overall in the combined standings.
For the boys, senior Kaden Fairbanks led the sprinters with a silver medal in the 200-meter dash in 21.22 seconds, a personal best, along with a fifth-place finish in the 100m in 10.98 seconds.
Fairbanks is seeded in the top 10 for both races as well as in the 400m, so look for a strong showing from him in state competition.
Sophomore Oliver Widdison added a fifth-place finish in the 400 meters in 51.57 seconds, a personal record. Widdison will also be competing in the state race. In the distance events, junior Cayden Vukich crossed in fifth place in the 1600m with a time of 4:34.56.
On the girls side, junior Shay Smith highlighted the distance events with a gold medal in the 1600m in 5:11.94. Sophomore Jane Sorensen added a fifth-place finish in the 3200m in 12:19.17.
In the sprints, sophomore Rickeisha O’Keefe earned bronze in the 200m in 25.31 seconds, a personal record and state-qualifying mark. O’Keefe is seeded in the top 10 for the state meet and will be vying for a spot in the finals in this event.
Senior Paris Laycock also punched her ticket to State with a fifth-place finish in 25.49 seconds. Senior Ginger Ballstaedt placed fourth in the 100m in 12.51 seconds, also qualifying for state competition.
Ballstaedt led the girls team in the field with a gold-medal mark in the long jump of 17-feet-4.0-inches, while Laycock claimed bronze at 17-1.75 feet, a personal record. Both athletes are top-10 seeds in 6A for the state competition.
Caveman freshman Olivia Cummings also had a strong meet, placing third in discus (96-8), sixth in shot put (27-3.0) and third in javelin (90-7.5, PR). Cummings will throw in the 6A state discus and javelin events.
Junior Mya Valenzuela added a fifth place in discus (89-7.0) and a bronze medal in shot put (30-1.0). She will compete in both events at State. Sophomore Rebekah Jacob placed fifth in javelin with a personal-record throw of 80-6.0 feet, also punching her ticket to State.
In the pole vault, junior Aleah Godfrey cleared 11-0.0 feet to garner silver, while sophomore Hazel Jenkins took fourth at 10-6.0 feet, a personal best. Both vaulters have qualified for state competition, with Godfrey seeded among the top five athletes for the event.
The Cavemen boys field events were a major strength, led by senior Madden Jensen, who earned bronze in the shot put with a personal best mark of 53-7.5 feet. Jensen placed fifth at the BYU Invitational and is seeded in the top 10 for the state meet, making him an athlete to watch in the shot-put competition.
Senior Caden Scherbel claimed a pair of bronze medals, in the long jump with a mark of 21-6.5 feet, a personal record and state-qualifying mark, and in the high jump at 5-11 feet as well. Senior Tyler Zabriskie placed fifth in the long jump at 21-4.0 feet, also qualifying for State with a personal best.
Senior Nate Corey took fourth in the discus, throwing 121-11.25 feet, a personal record, while senior Corbett Youngberg placed sixth, throwing 115-8.5 feet. Both qualified for the state meet.
Senior Ella Edwards collected bronze in the 100-meter hurdles in 16.30 seconds, while junior Gabriella South finished fourth in 16.49 seconds, a personal best. Junior Charlotte Anderson added a third-place finish in the 300-meter hurdles in 46.34 seconds. All three athletes are qualified for state competition.
The American Fork relay teams also made key contributions. The girls 4x100m relay team of freshman Ivy Jacobsen, Anderson, sophomore Abby Slater and freshman Britton Woods earned silver in 49.38 seconds.
On the boys side, the 4x800m relay team of junior Chase Hejny, senior Grant Hejny, Dallin Harrington and Austin Plewe captured the gold medal with a time of 8:07.95.
Driven by a balanced effort across all event groups, the Cavemen demonstrated depth and versatility. With numerous state qualifiers, American Fork is well-positioned heading into the 6A State Championships on May 14 and 16 at BYU’s Clarence F. Robison Track and Field complex.
Photos by Jim Ballard.
Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen
After besting Lone Peak by just two points a year ago, the returning state champion American Fork boys tennis team was edged by the Knights 57-56 in this season’s 6A state tournament to claim the silver trophy this time at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City on May 9.
However, Caveman senior Braeden Johnson retained his individual title in No. 1 Singles and his younger brother, sophomore Camden Johnson, won the crown at Second Singles. Lone Peak captured the other three brackets with American Fork finishing second in two of them.
Top seed Braeden Johnson had to overcome some serious adversity to repeat as First Singles champion. He suffered from cramping throughout the title match that twice sent hm to the deck and he was swept in the first set by No. 2 Davis Aubrey of Bingham 6-0.
Braeden rallied fiercely after that and gutted out two more tough sets 7-5, 7-5 to finish his prep career the way he wanted to.
He had lost just a single game prior to the final, topping No. 17 Gavin Britton of Mountain Ridge 6-0, 6-0 in the Round of 16, No. 9 Aiden Arnell of Weber 6-1, 6-0 in the quarterfinal and No. 4 Cache Dowdle of Lone Peak 6-0, 6-0 in the semifinal.
After finishing with the silver medal a year ago as the No. 2 seed, Camden Johnson came into the playoffs this time as the top contender in No. 2 Singles. He got his run started by besting No. 16 Ryker Rearick of Mountain Ridge in straight sets 6-0, 6-0.
Next he eliminated No. 8 Porter Groves of Westlake 6-0, 6-0 and then No. 5 Nathan Bringhurst of Farmington 6-1, 6-1. In the championship match, he triumphed over No. 2 Crew Mandelaris of Skyridge 6-1, 6-4 to collect the gold medal.
Top-seeded senior Matt Davis was similarly dominant in his first three rounds at Third Singles. He retired No. 16 Boston Sorensen of Copper Hills 6-0, 6-0, then No. 9 Landon Fong 6-0, 6-0 and finally No. 5 Grayson Durfey of Westlake 6-0, 6-1 to reach the title bout.
There he took on No. 2 Lehi Johnson of Lone Peak. The Knight won the first set 7-5, but Davis responded with a 6-4 win in the second set. Johnson went on to win the third set 6-2 to claim the bracket gold.
In First Doubles, American Fork junior Sam Karras and sophomore Sam Fairbanks were the No. 2 seed. They first swept No. 15 Spencer Smith and Ben Camp of Cedar Valley 6-0, 6-0 and then sent No. 7 Cole Tauffer and Franklyn Mortensen of Bingham home 6-3, 7-5.
The semifinal required them to come from behind to oust No. 3 Michael Sperry and JJ Lewis of Skyridge, but the Cavemen prevailed 2-6, 6-1, 6-4 to earn a spot in the final against the No. 1 Knights, Luke Miller and Cache Garner.
It was a long, competitive match. The American Fork duo won the first set 6-4, but Lone Peak bounced back and took the final two sets 6-4, 6-4 to earn the gold medal.
In No. 2 Doubles, Caveman juniors Phil Steed and Drew Jacobsmeyer drew the No. 3 seed and beat No. 14 Ryan Bell and Miles Lim of Copper Hills 6-0, 6-1 to get started. They worked a little harder to top the No. 6 Miner duo of Russell Kimber and Landon Jessop 7-5, 2-6, 6-2.
However, the No. 2 Skyridge pairing of Ben Schmidt and Jace Peck got the better of them in the semifinal 6-1, 6-3 to end their participation in the tournament.
American Fork will lose just two seniors off the state team so they should continue to be a serious contender in Class 6A next year as well.
Photos by Sam Penrod.
The Cavemen earned a high enough seed this season to make the cut for the 6A state tournament and will begin the playoffs in the best-of-three Super Regionals tomorrow and Friday (May 14-15). Here’s how the team is positioned.
American Fork
Season record: 5-7 Region 3 (3rd), 11-15 overall
Final RPI ranking: 13 in 6A
MaxPreps ranking: 13 in 6A, 56 statewide
Next contest: May 14
Prospects: The Cavemen will visit No. 4 Copper Hills (19-6) in the Super Regional round starting tomorrow at 4 p.m. They will return on Friday for a 1 p.m. game followed immediately by a tiebreaker if necessary. The next game will be Tuesday (May 19) at 3 p.m. at the Valley Complex in Taylorsville for whichever team prevails. The opponent will be either No. 5 Davis (22-6) or No. 12 Farmington (10-16).
Rob Shelton / America Fork Citizen
American Fork’s varsity softball team played some of its most competitive softball of the season to close out the regular-season schedule, including four straight wins to end the year, before honoring three seniors at the final home game and collecting postseason awards.
April 14: Lehi 19, American Fork 2
Lehi came out swinging and put 10 runs on the board in the first inning before American Fork could settle in, but the Cavemen showed grit from the opening at-bat.
Andi Gardner set the tone at the top of the lineup going 2-for-2, and Sydney Adamson and Sarah Jensen came up with clutch RBI singles in the first to put American Fork on the board quickly. Mazie Walters competed hard in the circle against a Lehi lineup that collected 16 hits on the day.
It was a tough early exit, but Gardner’s presence and the timely hitting from Adamson and Jensen gave the home fans something to cheer.
April 16: Lone Peak 17, American Fork 12
This one had everything. American Fork jumped ahead by five runs and traded haymakers with Lone Peak through all seven innings in a loss, but this was not a game the Cavemen gave away quietly.
Nataanii Fielding homered to left field in the first to score two, and Adamson followed in the second with a three-run blast. Gardner was spectacular, going 5-for-5 at the plate. Jensen and Adamson each drove in three runs.
American Fork collected 16 hits and led for much of the game before Lone Peak’s seven-run seventh inning proved to be too much to overcome. Mazie Walters struck out 10 batters. On another day, this is a Caveman win.
April 17: Bingham 8, American Fork 0
Bingham’s Lily Gritton was sharp in the circle all afternoon, and American Fork couldn’t solve her. Fielding made two catches in center field to limit the early damage, and Miah Walters and Eleni Lisonbee each singled in the second inning to keep the offense working.
The Cavemen couldn’t get a run across, but they continued competing through all six innings without surrendering mentally, the kind of character that defines a team headed for tournament play.
April 17: Copper Hills 13, American Fork 7
Fielding went 3-for-3 with a double and two singles and drove in two runs to lead a Cavemen offense that collected 12 hits against a solid Copper Hills squad. Adamson and Jensen each also drove in two runs and Lacie Fleming added two hits.
Lisonbee opened the game in the circle and kept American Fork in it through the early innings. The Cavemen showed their offensive depth against one of the better pitchers they’d face all season.
April 18: American Fork 9, Layton 0
Mazie Walters delivered one of the best performances of her career, a complete-game shutout against Layton, allowing just six hits while the Cavemen’s offense came alive for 14 hits and nine runs.
The twin sister battery was at its best: Miah Walters homered to left field in the sixth inning, a three-run shot that blew the game open, and finished 2-for-3 with three RBI.
Gardner doubled, Jensen doubled twice and Fleming added two hits of her own. Mazie Walters made 10 plays in the field without an error. The win was a complete team effort.
April 20: Skyridge 4, American Fork 2
American Fork gave Skyridge everything it could handle. Mazie Walters pitched six strong innings, struck out six and held a dangerous Skyridge lineup to four runs. Gardner launched a solo home run to center in the fifth and Fielding answered with another solo shot in the seventh.
The Cavemen never stopped competing. Fielding, Jensen and Maize Walters each collected two hits. American Fork committed no errors. Baker struck out 11 for Skyridge, and on that day, that made the difference.
April 23: Lehi 10, American Fork 2
Adamson gave the Cavemen a jolt right out of the gate with a two-run homer to center field in the first, and Jensen went 2-for-3 to lead the offense. Mazie Walters threw all seven innings and struck out one against a Lehi lineup that produced 12 hits.
The Cavemen kept competing through the final out. Jensen and Adamson’s production in the early innings showed exactly the kind of clutch hitting this offense is capable of on any given night.
April 27: Skyridge 19, American Fork 7
American Fork turned in one of its more explosive offensive performances of the season with 11 hits, a Keaton Routson homer, a three-run Adamson blast and seven total runs, but Skyridge’s grand slams proved to be too much.
Gardner went 3-for-4 from the leadoff spot and Fleming and Jensen each added multiple hits. Adamson drove in three runs from the three-hole.
The Cavemen turned a double play in the first inning. Center fielder Fielding caught a pop fly and threw to first baseman Fleming for the second out. The Cavemen kept battling even while trailing by double digits. That competitive DNA would pay off in the weeks ahead.
April 30: American Fork 17, Corner Canyon 1
Mazie Walters threw an immaculate inning in the second, striking out the side on nine pitches, and finished the game with 12 strikeouts over five innings while the offense piled up 23 hits.
Jensen went 4-for-5, Adamson drove in four runs and went 3-for-5, and Routson, Lisonbee, Fielding, Fleming, Gardner and Mazie Walters each had multiple hits. American Fork scored six runs in the fourth and six more in the fifth. The Cavemen were dominant from start to finish.
May 4: American Fork 8, Lone Peak 6
American Fork built a 7-run lead and held on as Lone Peak made a late charge in the win. Jensen was sensational, going 4-for-4 with a triple, two doubles and a single. The Cavemen rattled off five runs in the third inning with Jensen driving in two on a single.
Maize Walters started and struck out six, and Lisonbee closed it out. Kassidy Naylor added three hits and two stolen bases. American Fork turned a double play when left fielder Routson caught a line drive and threw to third baseman Adamson for the second out to help preserve the victory.
May 5: American Fork 3, Lone Peak 2
Mazie Walters was superb, posting eight strikeouts over seven full innings against a Lone Peak team that had just pushed the Cavemen to the limit the day before.
Fleming came up with the biggest moment of the game, driving in two runs and delivering in the clutch to give American Fork the lead for good. Adamson went 2-for-3 to lead the team in hits.
The Cavemen turned a double play when right fielder Karissa Shelton caught a pop fly and threw to Jensen on second base for the second out. This victory gave the team back-to-back wins over Lone Peak heading into the final week of the regular season.
May 7: American Fork 12, Corner Canyon 2
The Cavemen saved their best for last. On Senior Night, with Lacie Fleming, Miah Walters and Mazie Walters honored before the game, American Fork went out and delivered a 12-2 victory that sent the three seniors out in style.
Jensen went 3-for-3 with three doubles and drove in two runs. Mazie Walters allowed just three hits and struck out six over six innings. Lisonbee tripled, Shelton walked and drew a run-scoring play in the fourth inning to extend the lead.
The Cavemen committed no errors and Lisonbee handled the most chances in the field with six. It was a perfect sendoff for the senior leaders.
May 14-15: Cavemen exit playoffs with two losses
American Fork received the No. 13 seed in the final 6A RPI standings. They played on the road against No. 4 Copper Hills (21-6) in the Super Regionals and fell to the Grizzlies 12-0 on Thursday and 10-0 on Friday to end the year with an 11-17 record.
End-of-season awards
The coaching staff announced the following postseason awards to recognize the players who made the biggest impact throughout the season:
Most Improved Player: Karissa Shelton. Shelton grew steadily throughout the season, earning the respect of coaches and teammates alike with her effort and development on both sides of the ball.
Hardest-Working Player: Nataanii Fielding. One of the most consistent contributors on the roster, Fielding brought work ethic and energy to every practice and every game from the first pitch of the season to the last.
Offensive Player of the Year: Sarah Jensen. Jensen put together one of the finest offensive seasons in the program, consistently driving in runs from the middle of the lineup and delivering in the biggest moments.
Defensive Player of the Year: Miah Walters. The senior catcher was the anchor of the Cavemen defense all season, calling games, controlling the running game and providing leadership behind the plate that her teammates and coaches leaned on.
Most Valuable Player: Sydney Adamson. Adamson was a force in the lineup and at third base throughout the year, delivering clutch hits, home runs and steady defense that made her the heart of this team.
Photos by Jim Ballard.
Megan Wallgren / American Fork Citizen
The postseason run came to an end for the No. 14 American Fork boys volleyball team in a high-intensity match with No. 11 Riverton in the UHSAA 6A Boys Volleyball State Championships consolation bracket on May 6 at the UCCU Center at Utah Valley University in Orem.
American Fork pushed the Silverwolves through three tightly-contested game before falling 2 sets to 1. The loss dropped the Cavemen to 8-21 on the season, but the team showed grit and resilience throughout the best-of-three matchup.
Riverton grabbed the momentum early in the opening set, building a commanding 20-12 advantage. American Fork fought back with aggressive net play and capitalized on several Silverwolf mistakes. Mounting a late comeback, the Cavemen pulled within one point at 23-24 before Riverton closed out the game 25-23.
American Fork carried that momentum into the second set. Brigham Loser, Smith Littlefield, and Ryan Feveryear helped spark the Cavemen as the two teams traded leads throughout the game.
With the score tied 22-22 late, American Fork finished strong to secure the 25-22 victory and force a decisive third set.
Game 3 proved to be another battle, with the score tied seven different times. Riverton used a strong finish to pull away late for the 25-21 win.
After the match, Coach Tyler Degener praised his team’s ability to work together and keep fighting despite adversity.
“We talked in the huddle about things that weren’t going our way today, and the fact that everyone was able to bounce back and work together as a team, it just says a lot,” Degener said.
“It says a lot about these boys’ characters and how much they care about each other, and they want what’s best for each other, and they’re willing to fight. I think we played the best that we have all season tonight, and that was good,” he continued.
Degener was proud of the team’s improvement and said the experience gained in the state tournament will generate positive momentum for the returning players as they head into next season.
“I think these underclassmen and even these juniors know the expectation for next year, and they know what it takes, even just in our region. We have a tough region. We play good teams all year long to prepare us for this tournament,” he said.
The coach also singled out Feveryear for his leadership and effort during the season.
“Ryan Feveryear definitely needs a shout-out,” Degener said. “He’s a basketball player, and he’s new to volleyball, and he’s just eager to learn, and he’s a really good teammate on and off the court.
“I knew I could count on him to bring these guys together and bring a positive momentum toward our team. He and all of the seniors will be missed for sure,” the coach concluded.
Lone Peak 3, American Fork 0: Earlier in the day in the first round, the Cavemen fell to a familiar Region 3 foe, the No. 3 Knights. Lone Peak dominated the first set, but American Fork responded well in the second game, earning multiple ties and holding a narrow lead at times until the score reached 14-all.
After that, the Knights slowly pulled away. In Game 3, the points went back-and-forth in the early going again and the Cavemen stayed in touch until late in the round. Lone Peak eventually prevailed 25-12, 25-17, 25-19.
Beky Beaton contributed to this report.
Here’s how each American Fork lacrosse team is positioned entering the state tournaments.
Girls
Season record: 0-8 Region 3 (5th), 5-13 overall
Final RPI ranking: 14 in 6A
MaxPreps ranking: 14 in 6A, 45 statewide
Next contest: May 14
Prospects: With a bye in the first round, the Cavemen will visit #3 Mountain Ridge (12-4) in the second round on Thursday at 4 p.m. or at a different time if the schools mutually decide to change it. The winner of that contest will take on the victor of #6 Syracuse (13-4) and #11 Lehi (10-8) on Saturday (May 16) at the home of the higher seed. The default start time is 4 p.m. but this may be adjusted as the schools agree. American Fork bowed to the Pioneers in both Region 3 contests this season, but this will be their first opportunity to play the Sentinels or the Titans.
Boys
Season record: 0-4 Region 3 (5th), 8-10 overall
Final RPI ranking: 16 in 6A
MaxPreps ranking: 14 in 6A, 47 statewide
Next contest: May 14
Prospects: The Cavemen will visit #3 Farmington (14-3) in the second round of the state tournament Thursday at 4 p.m. or whenever the schools agree. The winner of that game will take on the victor of #6 Weber (13-5) and #11 Lone Peak (6-10) in the second round on Saturday (May 16) at 1 p.m. on the home field of the higher seed. American Fork did not play the Phoenix or the Warriors this year but lost to the Knights during the region season.
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