The Hive Sports

by James Tate

Clearfield Falcons

2024 Record Overall 17-7 | Region 12-2

Head Coach: JT Soter

With back-to-back 17-win seasons and a second-round playoff appearance under their belt, the Clearfield Falcons girls’ basketball team enters the 2025–26 campaign with high expectations and a hunger for more. Led by fourth-year Head Coach JT Soter, the Falcons are poised to make a serious run at the Region 5 title.

Last season, Clearfield finished second in Region 5 behind the state champions, Bountiful Redhawks, and fell in a hard-fought home playoff loss to Spanish Fork. But with a seasoned roster and a defensive identity that Coach Soter believes will keep them in every game, the Falcons are ready to take the next step.

“The quality that we have that will help us contend this year is our defense,” Coach Soter said. “We have physical guard play, which will keep us close in all the games.”

Coach Soter and Jayla Kearns

Wyaskett’s final season could be her best yet

At the heart of Clearfield’s charge is senior Izzy Wyaskett, a four-year starter and team captain whose impact on both ends of the floor has become the cornerstone of the Falcons’ success. Wyaskett earned 2nd Team All-State honors last season and was named Region 5 Defensive Player of the Year. Known for her elite quickness and sharp instincts, she’s widely regarded as one of the top point guards in Utah.

Wyaskett’s excellence has reached beyond state lines. On November 25, 2024, she was named Sports Illustrated’s National High School Player of the Week, a rare honor that highlights her growing national profile.

“I didn’t think Izzy could get any quicker, but she did that,” Coach Soter said. “She has put the work in the weight room. She has improved her shooting, for sure. She has an opportunity this year to become the school’s all-time leader in steals.  She also has a chance to eclipse 1,000 points.

Ciara De La O

Outside scoring threats in junior guard Ciara De La O and senior guard Brighton Bernards will complement Wyaskett’s ability to attack the paint. Their perimeter shooting adds a new layer to Clearfield’s offense, which Coach Soter believes will be more efficient and balanced this season.

“Excited to see our improvement on offense,” Coach Soter said. “I think we will be a better shooting team.”

Clearfield’s supporting cast ready to shine

Seniors Jayla Kerans and Destini Gomez bring veteran savvy and two-way toughness, having thrived in Soter’s system over the years. Their leadership and confidence will be key in high-pressure moments.

The Falcons also expect contributions from a promising youth movement. Sophomore Calista Christensen has caught her coach’s eye with her poise and basketball IQ.

Calista Christensen

“I feel Calista Christensen will have an opportunity to make an impact this year,” Coach Soter said. “A smart player makes the right plays.”

Senior McKinley Philpott will anchor the interior, giving Clearfield a much-needed presence on the boards as the team looks to stay healthy and add length inside.

Coach Soter’s Falcons ready to leave their mark

As the season tips off, Coach Soter is embracing the challenge of a competitive Region 5 and the opportunity to guide a battle-tested group of seniors through their final campaign.

“Looking forward to the competition in our region,” Coach Soter said. “I think all the remaining teams from our region last year will be much improved. We need to be ready every night, and I think that is fun. I’m really excited to coach this team this year. Excited for our seniors that have been here for four years to end on a high note.”

With a blend of experience, depth, and defensive grit, the Falcons are flying into the season with purpose. The Region 5 title is within reach, and Clearfield has the roster to chase it down.

photos courtesy of James Tate