The Durango High School boys' soccer program, once a steady presence in the league, stumbled in 2025 with an 8‑7‑1 record, missing the state quarterfinal they had reached the year before. A larger varsity squad of 21 players now reports to third‑year head coach Sean Ackerman, who is eager to restore the team's former momentum.
A Defensive Overhaul
Recognizing that gaps between defense and midfield cost them dearly, the coaching staff has reorganized the back line. Owen Martinez, Silas Frederick and Wyatt McGuire have taken on expanded roles to tighten the defensive shape, while Hudson Gray assumes the starting goalkeeper position after Quinn Harrison's graduation. Assistant coach Zac Keeler will work closely with Gray to bring stability between the posts.
The new tactical setup emphasizes compactness and quicker transitions, aiming to limit the high‑scoring defeats that plagued the team against opponents such as Fruita Monument, Grand Junction and D’Evelyn. By shoring up the midfield‑defense interface, the Demons hope to turn defensive lapses into fewer goals against.
Schedule and League Parity
Durango's slate features a mix of home and road fixtures, beginning with away matches at Columbine and Legend before a stretch of five consecutive home games. The final league contest will take the team to Montrose, a venue that has historically tested their resilience. The league landscape is described as more competitive, with greater parity among teams, which could provide the Demons with additional opportunities to climb the standings.
Coach Ackerman remains focused on incremental progress, stating that the goal is a state quarterfinal appearance similar to the 2024 run, but he stresses a day‑by‑day approach and the importance of teamwork over lofty expectations.
Key Offensive Threats
On the offensive side, junior Connor Allen is expected to shoulder more scoring responsibility, building on his technical skill set and soccer IQ. Joining him is senior Jed Lawler, who contributed the third‑most points on the team last season and will look to add depth to the attack. Their performances, combined with the improved defensive foundation, could prove decisive in close contests.