Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

For two years they’d had to endure it.

The doubt. The questions. The enormous pain of losing in a state championship game two years in a row, the way only a teenage athlete can feel it – like it was the end of the world. The year before they’d been the favorite, and that made it sting even more.

When the 1975-76 basketball season started, the players on the American Fork boys basketball team were on a mission – to win that elusive state title. Interviewed after they achieved their goal, point guard David Dean told a reporter that there was “no way we were going to let that happen again.”

It’s not like this team had come out of nowhere. Everyone knew they were good; they had been for years. Some of the seniors had been on varsity for three seasons and had only gotten better.

Wesley Ruff, ABC4 sports anchor, was a senior playing for Springville that season. The Red Devils were one of the Cavemen’s league foes. “Their second team could have started for most teams in Utah County,” he said.

The team had experienced great success in Region 6, winning three straight league championships, and American Fork appeared most of the time in the top three of the 3A rankings for that entire stretch. They had earned the state silver trophy twice, but they wanted more.

However, making a wish or setting a goal doesn’t make it so. They still had to do whatever it took, day by day, practice by practice, game by game.

They rolled to a 12-0 record in the league and wrapped up their fourth consecutive region title weeks before the tournament. Right after that though, the Cavemen lost to Pleasant Grove in overtime, a repeat of a defeat exactly one year earlier which had ruined a perfect record then too.

American Fork responded by trouncing Springville 86-59 to finish the regular season. Keep in mind this was before the adoption of the 3-point shot, which was still a decade away. “We thought we could have beaten them, but they were mad,” Ruff said. “Their team culture was great.”

The loss to the Vikings may in part explain how the Cavemen were considered the underdogs to defending state champion Davis when the tournament started, but that only added fuel to the fire.

The first-round opponent was Cyprus. The game started a little tentatively, but American Fork quickly warmed to the task, building a 24-8 lead by the end of the first quarter and going on to an 89-44 victory using the entire roster.

Cedar City put up a stiffer fight in the quarterfinal, but the net result was the same. The Cavemen raced out to a 27-10 advantage in the initial period and cruised to a 98-84 victory. The Redmen made up a few points only late in the contest against American Fork’s deep reserves.

That brought on the Dixie Flyers in the 3A semifinals. Dean called this “one of the best games of all time.” A sportswriter of the day opined, “The Cavemen’s triple-overtime victory … was one of the most memorable games ever played in the long, illustrious history of Utah prep basketball.”

American Fork trailed by eight points early in the third quarter but then mounted an 18-4 run to gain a six-point advantage. The Flyers fought back and worked to a 65-63 lead with seconds left and looked to have punched their ticket to the final.

However, forward Andy Burgess managed to beat the buzzer with a 10-foot jumper to send the game into overtime.

Dixie got ahead in both of the next two periods, but each time the Cavemen responded as first center Mike Bond and then guard Brian Hansen hit jump shots to tie the score and bring on another chance.

A successful drive by Bond followed by a made free throw was the key play that secured the 81-77 victory for American Fork in the third extra stanza.

The Darts could be forgiven for thinking that such a long, tiring game for their next-day foe would be to their advantage. They had sailed through the earlier semifinal and no doubt watched at least part of the subsequent game to size up their opponents.

If that was indeed their opinion, it turned out to be wrong.

In front of 10,000 fans in the Marriott Center plus a statewide TV audience, the Cavemen took the floor. The teams battled toe-to-toe through the first half and American Fork had only a slight lead of 22-19 heading into the locker room at the break.

However, once they returned to the court, they owned it, leaving no doubt by outscoring Davis 46-30 in the second half to roll to the 68-49 oh-so-sweet victory.

“Psychologically, we wanted it more,” Coach Carl Ingersoll told a reporter, who also noted that the coach had “been living with the bridesmaid syndrome more closely than any other human these past couple of years.”

Ingersoll added, “I know there were some who stayed away tonight, thinking that we’d do it again. But we soft-pedalled that second-place business. We had confidence in our program.”

With gold trophy in hand at last, the Cavemen rode into the sunset. It was the school’s first hoops title since 1962, and the first after they had joined the “bigger school” ranks. Class 4A was as high as it went in those days and Class 3A wasn’t far behind in prominence.

This was a rich year in the state for athletic talent on the court, with a crop that included Bruce Hurst, Scott Runia, Danny Vranes, Scott Labrum and others who would be familiar to Utah basketball fans. Yet even with that competition, the Cavemen racked up an impressive list of post-season honors.

Ingersoll skippered American Fork to another title in 1979 and eventually went on to an assistant coaching job at BYU. Though well past 90 now, he continues to attend ball games whenever he can to watch his numerous descendants and relatives or just for the fun of going.

The echoes of this team and its other personalities have continued to resonate down through the years. Many have assisted the program as coaches, booster parents and fans. Some of their children have suited up for the Cavemen, or played against them.

The team’s reputation for toughness has remained intact too. Here’s an anecdote shared by Reed Bromley, a player on a later team who also coached at American Fork. He shared an experience with Frank Pulley, a junior reserve on the 1976 team who played in the post despite being only six feet tall.

Pulley also had a nickname: the Wolverine, which may offer a clue to his approach to the game. “He only got limited minutes that year but talking to the seniors, he brought a fight to the team that was impacting in them winning that state title,” Bromley said. “Every practice was a war.

“Well, Frank served for years as a volunteer fireman in AF and was also an assistant sophomore coach for Bob Eckles,” Bromley went on. “He was so great and again taught toughness like few I’ve seen. I had first-hand experience with what the varsity boys in 1976 must have gone through.

“I was afraid to come to practice for nearly two weeks because I had caught Frank with an elbow and I knew the Wolverine would get his revenge,” Bromley explained.

Enough said.

See https://afcitizen.com/2026/01/31/cavemen-celebrate-1976-state-basketball-champs/ for the story on the celebration.

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

The American Fork High School girls basketball team dropped their final Region 3 game by a single point on the road. The Cavemen finished fourth in the challenging group but ended up with a 13-8 record overall. They received the No. 9 seed in the final 6A RPI rankings.

After a bye in the first round, they get a fresh start as the playoffs begin when they will visit No. 8 Davis (15-8), the second-place team in Region 1, on Thursday (Feb. 19) at 7 p.m. American Fork beat the Darts at home by 10 points in January.

If the Cavemen win this game, they will advance to the state quarterfinals to play No. 1 Westlake (19-4), the Region 2 second-place team, on Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the University of Utah’s Huntsman Center.

They rely on two adept scorers in junior shooting guard Jalise Chatman and senior small forward Julia Fugal, who together have averaged about 28 points per game and also contribute in other ways. The players also have some size and quickness and are capable of applying good defense.

This American Fork team won nine more games this season than last and had multiple close losses, so they’re going to be a tough out for any opponent if they play up to their potential.

Feb. 13: Skyridge 56, American Fork 55

The Cavemen kept pace with the Falcons on the road at the start of this contest, ending the initial quarter trailing by just two points. However, they struggled through the second period and fell behind 19-30 at the half.

They reduced the deficit by one bucket in the third quarter but then mounted a furious rally, taking the lead in the late stages of the game before the home school netted a long shot that ended the clash in their favor.

Nine players scored in an all-out team effort. Chatman led the charge with a double-double of 15 points and 13 rebounds. Senior power forward Taylor Jensen added nine points with three boards.

Fugal tallied eight points with eight rebounds and freshman small forward Maya Durrant scored eight points as well with six boards and two blocks. Junior point guard Morgan Felix collected six steals and dished out four assists.

“Our effort was unbelievable,” said Coach Robert Harmon. “The girls worked and played so hard the entire night, they really gave their all in this game.

“It’s not the way we wanted the regular season to end, but I’m so proud of these girls and the amount of hard work they’ve put in all year,” he went on.

“I have pushed them hard and thrown a lot of new concepts and expectations on them, and these amazing girls showed up each day willing to work and wanting to learn,” the coach said.

“As much as this game hurt, it has prepared us for what’s next and helps build us for what we’re ultimately trying to accomplish: a state championship,” Harmon concluded.

Beky Beaton / America Fork Citizen

The American Fork High School boys basketball team ended the regular season on the road at Skyridge. Since losing to the Cavemen in the first round of league play, the surging Falcons had won five games in a row and were gunning for the upset on their Senior Night.

It took overtime to accomplish it, but American Fork eventually prevailed in the thriller to end Region 3 play at 7-1 with a 16-7 overall record. The Cavemen drew the No. 2 seed in the final 6A RPI rankings and got a pass in the first round.

They will start the playoffs in the second round by hosting No. 15 Copper Hills (7-16), the last-place team from Region 2, on Friday (Feb. 20) at 7 p.m.

If the Cavemen advance to the quarterfinals on Feb. 25, they will face either No. 7 Skyridge (15-8) or No.10 Herriman (15-8) at 12:50 p.m. at the University of Utah’s Huntsman Center.

The Cavemen reversed their overall record from last season with most of the same players and were dominant in rugged Region 3 with the second-toughest overall schedule in 6A, according to the UHSAA’s own numbers.

The team is built around the two senior pillars of Bryce Mella and Jax Clark. Mella is a very tall guard with elite ball skills and shooting touch, while Clark is one of the state’s few true big men this year and a monster down low. Together they average about 33 points, 14 rebounds and six assists per contest.

However, they are also surrounded by a group of teammates who are, like them, unselfish and hard-working, demons on defense and resilient in adapting to ever-changing game situations.

With a championship coach at the helm and a team-first mindset, American Fork has to be considered one of the favorites to win it all this year, though as is normally the case, they will have to earn it in a challenging field.

Feb. 13: American Fork 61, Skyridge 58 (OT)

This contest was tight from bell to bell and played out as a nail-biter. The Cavemen had the slim early lead at 11-9 after the first quarter, and the margin remained the same at the half as each team netted 17 points during the fast-paced second period.

American Fork inched ahead in the third quarter to take a four-point advantage into the final stanza, but a furious rally by the home squad down the stretch knotted the game at 55-all before the final whistle.

Every point was hard to come by in the overtime, but the Cavemen did enough to pocket the win as an appropriate exclamation point on their league season.

Mella posted a double-double of 24 points with 10 rebounds and also had six assists. Clark added 12 points with six boards and three assists.

Senior guard Ashton Hucks hit three triples and finished with 11 points. Sophomore wing Dieter Tuitavuki and junior guard Jax Oyler each canned a pair of treys and Oyler also registered three assists and four steals.

“We beat a really tough team on the road in overtime,” said Coach Ryan Cuff. “The kids played tough. Defense was our strength at the end. I’m proud of our guys for their toughness and the way they all play so hard together.”

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

The tournament brackets for Class 6A have been released. The American Fork basketball teams both earned byes in the first round and here’s how each is positioned entering the upcoming state tournament.

The first two rounds will be played at home sites and the rest of the tournament will be contested at the University of Utah’s Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City.

Girls

Season record: 3-5 Region 3 (4th), 13-8 overall

Final RPI ranking: 9 in 6A

MaxPreps ranking: 10 in 6A, 23 statewide

Next contest: Feburary 19 at Davis, 7 p.m.

Prospects: The Cavemen won nine more games this season than last and had multiple close losses, so they’re going to be a tough out if they play to their potential. They get a fresh start as the playoffs begin when they will visit #8 Davis (15-8), the second-place team in Region 1. American Fork beat the Darts at home by 10 points in January. If the Cavemen win this game, they will advance to the state quarterfinals to play #1 Westlake (19-4), the Region 2 second-place team, on Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m.

Boys

Season record: 7-1 Region 3 (1st), 16-7 overall

Final RPI ranking: 2 in 6A

MaxPreps ranking: 1 in 6A, 4 statewide

Next contest: February 20 at home, 7 p.m. Prospects: The Cavemen reversed their overall record from last season with most of the same players and were dominant in rugged Region 3. They are definitely one of the favorites to win it all this year. They will host #15 Copper Hills (7-16), the last-place team from Region 2, on Friday. American Fork has not played the Grizzlies this season. If the Cavemen advance to the quarterfinals on Feb. 25, they will face either #7 Skyridge (15-8) or #10 Herriman (15-8) at 12:50 p.m.

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

The American Fork boys wrestling team had one bronze medalist as they finished up the season at the 6A state wrestling tournament at Utah Valley University’s UCCU Center on Feb. 11-12. Mountain Ridge won the team championship with 225 points. The Cavemen came in 15^th place.

Junior Cohen Mortensen earned the bronze medal in the 144 weight class. He registered first-period pins in the initial two rounds over Lehi and Layton but dropped a close match against Riverton in the semifinal.

He qualified for his spot in the placement match with a fall over Mountain Ridge at 1:08, then claimed his medal with a 22-5 technical fall over Layton at the 4:18 mark.

“Cohen lost to a very good Riverton kid,” said Coach Cody Mortensen. “To get to an elite level of wrestling, as these top 6A kids are, takes thousands and thousands of hours lifting weights and training. So I have nothing but respect and admiration for these kids that put in this type of work.

“Cougar Wilson, Tekoa Stotts and Kade Durrant fell one match short of placement, all losing very close matches,” he continued. “Ideally, we would have placed 3-4 kids this year, but things just didn’t break that way. It felt like everything broke our way during divisionals, but nothing did during state.

“I am super proud of our guys and the fight they brought to every match,” the coach said. “They represented themselves and the school very well.

“On the bright side, we have eight state qualifiers returning next season. We also have a large eighth grade class that did very well at Youth Super State that will join the program next year, including Youth Super State Champion Burk Mecham.

“Overall, we should add around 15 freshman wrestlers next year that have been working with assistant coach Michael Herring. The future of American Fork wrestling is very bright,” Coach Mortensen concluded.

Here’s how the other Cavemen did at the tournament by weight class:

• At 113, Jacob Pletsch earned one win by technical fall over Bingham against two losses.
• At 120, TJ Varney was eliminated by two falls.
• At 120, Hudson Bauerle lost both of his matches.
• At 126, Cougar Wilson won his first bout over Lehi with a 17-0 technical fall at 3:14. He lost to Riverton in the quarterfinal but defeated a Herriman opponent with a 15-0 technical fall at 1:23 in consolation. He dropped a decision to Corner Canyon to end his run.
• At 144, Tekoa Stotts also posted a 2-2 mark. He posted two first-period pins over Lehi and Syracuse but bowed out after a technical fall in his second match to Davis and a narrow decision to Mountain Ridge in the final bout.
• At 150, Joseph Holman exited after a pair of technical falls.
• At 157, Hyrum Rowley was pinned twice to complete his run.
• At 190, Kade Durrant fell to Davis in the first round but then claimed a duo of decisions over Lehi 7-3 and Lone Peak 8-4 to advance in consolation. He lost to Bingham by 4-1 decision in his final match.
• At 215, Mitt Palmer dropped his first bout to Skyridge 9-6 but then earned a pin in 38 seconds over Weber in consolation before bowing to Layton by decision to end his day.
• At 285, Myers Carter lost both his matches by fall.

American Fork had two representatives in the girls tournament. In the 190 bracket, junior Lacey Watrous was eliminated in two matches.

In her first year of competition, junior Aleana Curley lost her first bout by fall late in the third round to Copper Hills but bounced back with a first-period pin over Corner Canyon in consolation before bowing out after dropping a close decision to Westlake in the 130 weight class.

ASHTON HUCKS

GRADE: 12

SPORT: Boys Basketball

POSITION: Guard

RECENT HIGHLIGHT:

Very consistent in doing the little things to help his team to be successful on and off the court.

COACH’S COMMENTS:

Ashton loves his team and works extremely hard all of the time. He has great love and care for his teammates. He is a leader in all places.

– Coach Ryan Cuff

Sponsored by the Utah National Guard.

TAYLOR JENSEN

GRADE: 12

SPORT: Girls Basketball

POSITIONS: F, C

RECENT HIGHLIGHT:

Taylor scored 11 points against Lone Peak and 18 points against Corner Canyon.  

COACH’S COMMENTS:

Taylor has been an absolute spark for our program over the last three games.  Scoring 18 pts against Corner Canyon and had brought such energy and leadership each game.

– Coach Robert Harmon

Sponsored by the Utah National Guard.

Beky Beaton / America Fork Citizen

The 6A No. 2 American Fork High School boys basketball team prevailed in the last three contests in rugged Region 3 to wrap up the league championship. With one contest remaining, the Cavemen have a 6-1 region record, two games ahead of everyone else, and are 15-7 overall.

Jan. 30: American Fork 65, Lehi 63

On the night when American Fork honored the 1976 state championship basketball team for their 50^th anniversary, a full house of raucous fans was treated to an exceptional battle in one of the state’s oldest rivalries which wasn’t decided until the final seconds.

Both teams took the floor with energy, and the score was already 9-9 after the first four minutes. The Pioneers inched ahead 17-14 by the end of the initial period, and that margin held up to the break as each squad added 20 more points in the second quarter.

Lehi got the biggest lead of the evening for either side following the first play of the final stanza, when the score stood at 57-49. American Fork senior guard Bryce Mella took over the game at that point, and he sparked the home team in their comeback.

He scored five points in the next minute to reduce the deficit to three points. A bit later, senior forward Jax Clark muscled his way to the hoop for a layup and sophomore wing Dieter Tuitavuki hit a free throw to draw the Cavemen even at 57-all with 5:29 to play.

American Fork continued to defend well and hit the boards hard, with a 33-21 edge for the night. Clark got another layup and both teams converted more foul shots to bring the tally to 60-all with 1:08 remaining.

The Cavemen made their last five points at the charity stripe as Lehi was forced to foul for possession. Mella finished with 30 points and got seven of them plus three of his four rebounds in the fourth quarter.

Clark also had an outstanding game as the Pioneers could find no answer for his prowess down low. He posted a double-double of 19 points on 70 percent shooting plus 14 boards with three assists and a critical steal.

Tuitavuki contributed significantly to the necessary effort down the stretch as well and finished with seven points plus seven rebounds. Senior guard Ashton Hucks added five points and a pair of assists.

“We won a tough game,” said Coach Ryan Cuff. “Lehi came into AF shooting red hot and we trailed most of the game. Again, we relied on defense to keep the game close, and at the end, we had some excellent execution to pull ahead.”

Feb. 3: American Fork 58, Lone Peak 48

It was the Cavemen who started hot against the Knights on the road, surging in front 14-5 in the initial period. The teams dueled essentially even for the rest of the night, so that early advantage proved decisive in enabling American Fork to hold on for the victory with a total-team effort.

The visitors converted on 57 percent of their tries inside the paint and 43 percent from beyond the arc with 13 assists on 22 field goals. They also combined for seven steals and 12 recoveries with just seven turnovers.

Clark led the way with 15 points, six rebounds and three assists. Tuitavuki scored 13 points including four triples while Mella added 11 points, eight boards and four assists. Hucks posted eight points with three steals and senior guard Bridger Burnside collected five points and four rebounds.

“We played a tough Lone Peak team on their floor,” Cuff said. “We jumped to an early lead and with a disciplined defense and disciplined offense, we were able to maintain our lead for the entire game.

“Our guys worked hard together, shared the ball well, plus played great team and help defense,” the coach added. “It’s been fun to watch them coming together like this.”

Feb. 6: American Fork 61, Corner Canyon 57

Back at home, the Cavemen survived another drum-tight battle, this time against the Chargers. An initial advantage proved crucial again here, as a first-half margin of 30-25 held up through the rest of the contest.

Clark had his second double-double in a week with 17 points and 12 rebounds plus four assists and two steals. Hucks had a big night with four long bombs and finished with 16 points while Mella added 11 points and three assists.

Burnside had a good floor game with five points, five boards and three assists. Junior guard Jax Oyler added four points and three rebounds. Sophomore forward Lincoln Zimmerman grabbed three boards.

“We won a tough, tough game against a very physical and talented Corner Canyon team,” Cuff said. “Keys to the win were the way we played solid defense as well as rebounding, only allowing their team one opportunity as much as possible on offense.”

American Fork outrebounded the visitors 29-22. “Our guys really stepped up on defense and we played a nice steady pace on offense,” the coach said.

The Cavemen conclude the regular season at Skyridge on Friday (Feb. 13). Double-header game times are 6 p.m. for varsity girls followed by varsity boys at 7:30 p.m.

The 6A state tournament bracket reveal show is scheduled for Saturday (Feb. 14) beginning at 10 a.m. at KSLSports.com/stream.

Beky Beaton / American Fork Citizen

Despite a pair of recent losses in Region 3 games, the American Fork High School girls basketball team   hung onto third place with a later win as the rugged league season winds down. With one contest remaining, the Cavemen are 3-4 in region play and 14-7 overall.

Jan. 30: Lehi 52, American Fork 43

The teams dueled even through the first half in the Cave, tying at 13-all after the initial period with the Cavemen owning a slight 25-23 advantage at the break. However, the Pioneers surged in the third quarter and clamped down defensively in the fourth to secure the win.

Senior power forward Taylor Jensen led the charge offensively with 13 points while junior shooting guard Jalise Chatman added 10 points, three rebounds and a block. Freshman small forward Maya Durrant snagged 10 boards with a block and junior point guard Morgan Felix scored eight points.

“This was a tough loss for us,” said Coach Robert Harmon. “The girls played so hard throughout the game. Sometimes shots just don’t fall for you, but I was proud of the girls’ effort.

“We were missing a key piece with Julia not playing due to an injury, but next-man-up mentality and I felt that everyone brought something to the game,” he added.

“We just put them on the line way too much and that’s where they were able to generate their lead,” the coach said. “We had our chances, but we just couldn’t close it out.”

Feb. 3: Lone Peak 58, American Fork 35

The Cavemen struggled to find the hoop in the first half on the road and dug themselves into a hole. They matched the Knight points in the third quarter and played well in the fourth also but couldn’t overcome the early deficit.

Chatman netted a team-high 13 points with six rebounds and a pair of steals. In her return from injury, senior small forward Julia Fugal provided seven points, 10 boards, three assists, a steal and a block in a lively effort on both ends of the floor. Jensen added six points and three rebounds.

“Energy is everything,” Harmon said. “I don’t care who you’re playing, you can compete with anyone if you will just show up with energy and effort, and the first half we had neither.

“Against a great team like Lone Peak, if you get behind early it’s really hard to get yourself back in the game,” the coach said. “But in the second half we decided we wanted to play and we gave a good account of ourselves. You can’t win a game in the first half, but you can sure lose one.”

Feb. 6: American Fork 75, Corner Canyon 40

The Cavemen scorched the nets at home on Senior Night, posting 29 points in the first quarter and 27 in the third on the way to a huge win over the Chargers. Nine players scored for the hosts, four of them in double figures.

Chatman had an outstanding all-around game with 19 points, five rebounds, five assists, seven steals and a block. Jensen added 18 points and five boards, while Fugal scored 16 points with seven rebounds and three steals and Felix contributed 14 points with three assists and a block.

A couple of youngsters provided some solid minutes off the bench. Sophomore power forward Rebekah Jacob collected four boards plus four assists and sophomore shooting guard Ruby Dunford picked up four rebounds and a pair of steals.

American Fork finishes up the regular season at Skyridge on Friday (Feb. 13). Contests will tip off at 6 p.m. for varsity girls followed by varsity boys at 7:30 p.m.

The 6A state tournament bracket reveal show is scheduled for Saturday (Feb. 14) beginning at 10 a.m. at KSLSports.com/stream.

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.”