Ethan Orchard, a freshman who will join the University of Denver’s soccer program this fall, has been crowned the Colorado Boys Soccer Gatorade Player of the Year, a testament to a high school career that blended prolific scoring with clutch performances.
A New Era for the Denver Pioneers
During his senior season at Ralston Valley, Orchard guided the team to the state title game, tallying 19 goals and eight assists while delivering a dramatic equalizer in the final minute of the semifinal and converting the decisive penalty to secure the championship. His contributions earned him the Colorado 5A State Player of the Year, the Jeffco MVP, and the Offensive Player of the Year honors, and he was also selected to the 2025 United Soccer Coaches All‑American team.
Orchard’s club résumé is equally impressive. He earned two selections to the MLS Next Team of the Season — first with the U‑16 side and later with the U‑17 squad — and helped his club reach the MLS Next Cup Finals in 2024. At the U‑17 level he scored 34 goals, propelling the team to the semifinals in 2025, a run that underscored his status as one of the nation’s top prospects.
Now, as the Denver Pioneers prepare for their inaugural West Coast Conference schedule, the team will open the season at home against Cal Poly on August 20 at 7 p.m. Mountain Time, marking the start of a new chapter for both the player and the program.
Orchard’s arrival signals more than just a talent boost; it represents a broader ambition for the Pioneers to compete at the highest level of collegiate soccer. With a blend of proven leadership, elite conditioning, and a hunger for victory, he is poised to influence the team’s tactics and culture from day one.