The Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé Crimson Bears saw their championship hopes dim after a 2-0 defeat to the West Valley Wolfpack in the semifinals of the Alaska School Activities Association Boys Soccer State Championships.
Coach Gary Lehnhart highlighted the team's improved second-half performance, noting that maintaining that energy from the outset could have altered the outcome. Key contributors such as Ethan Van Kirk, Elliot Welch and Jesper Bennetsen were praised for their defensive work and composure under pressure.
A Chance at Redemption
The Crimson Bears will next face West Anchorage in the third/fifth-place game on Saturday, looking to rebound from the narrow loss. Earlier in the tournament Dimond defeated West Valley 3-1 to secure a spot in the Division I title match, underscoring the competitive depth of Alaska high school soccer.
Players including Kevin Flores-Lopez, Maddox Carroll, Sam Mazon, Troy Edgar and Bryce Haygood are expected to bring the same attacking flair that sparked the team’s late surge. Midfielders Erik Thompson and Callan Walker have emphasized the importance of communication and chemistry as the squad aims to finish the season on a high note.
With a roster that also features defenders Emmett Mesdag, Elias Schane, Noah Ault, Ibrahima Diouf, Tullitsiaq Reimer, Karter Barzee, Elijah Edgar, Imanol Vera, Andrew Koverdan, Tanner Schultz and the ever‑reliable Elliot Welch, the Crimson Bears hope to translate their second‑half resilience into a decisive result against West Anchorage.