Utah’s 2026 Boys Soccer Players Shine in State Championships
The Deseret News has named its 2026 Players of the Year in boys soccer, honoring those who not only posted impressive statistics but also propelled their squads to championship glory.
Patrick Stevenson of Lone Peak emerged as a linchpin for his team, striking the equalizing goal in the 6A championship and finishing the season with 13 goals and seven assists, a testament to his selfless approach and knack for delivering when it mattered most.
Cameron Martin of Bountiful combined volume with impact, registering a goal or an assist in roughly two‑thirds of his team’s matches and finishing with 18 goals and six assists, a key factor in the Braves’ 5A state title.
Carlos Nieto‑Rosales of Murray stood out as the tournament’s top scorer, tallying 26 goals and 16 assists and wrapping his high school career with 54 goals and 33 assists, a milestone that underscores his offensive dominance.
Xavier Peregrina of Ogden guarded the net with distinction, posting 11 shutouts and riding a 43‑game winning streak while helping the Tigers capture three consecutive state championships.
Meanwhile, Kale Garner of Maeser Prep anchored a defense that secured back‑to‑back 2A titles, his presence at the back proving decisive in crucial moments.
Together, these athletes illustrate how clutch performances, balanced contributions and defensive solidity can define a championship season, setting a high bar for the next generation of Utah soccer talent.