by James Tate

Bonneville Lakers

Head Coach: Brady Nicholls

2025 Record: Overall (12-7) Region (8-4)

The Bonneville Lakers enter year three under Head Coach Brady Nicholls with momentum and ambition. After finishing fourth in Region 5 last season, the Lakers return a loaded roster determined to contend for the region crown and make a deep run in the state tournament. Their 2025 campaign showcased balance on both ends of the pitch, 52 goals scored and only 20 conceded, both marks ranking second in the region behind Box Elder.

At the heart of Bonneville’s attack is senior forward Kambry Dalton, the reigning Deseret News First Team All‑State selection. Dalton led Region 5 with 21 goals last season, her pace and finishing ability making her one of the most dangerous strikers in Utah high school soccer. She headlines an offense that has the firepower to overwhelm opponents and the confidence to sustain it across the season.

Kambry Dalton

Defensively, Bonneville leans on the steady presence of elite goalkeeper and 2025 Deseret News Second-Team All-State selection Lily Atkinson, who has committed to continue her career at Eastern Kentucky University. Atkinson’s blend of shot‑stopping prowess and command of the box earned her recognition at the U.S. Soccer Talent ID Center this past spring, a program designed to spotlight players with potential to reach the national team level. Her reliability provides the Lakers with a backbone capable of absorbing the pressure of tight Region battles. That edge is no accident; Atkinson’s offseason grind included specialized training with Pedro Galicia at Galicia GK Academy, sharpening the skills that make her one of the state’s premier keepers.

The back line is bolstered by senior defender Maggie Anderson and sophomore Alanna Smith, both 2025 Deseret News All‑State Honorable Mention honorees. Anderson, an elite all-around player, has committed to playing at Utah Tech University. Smith is one of the brightest young stars in the state for the next few years. Their blend of experience and youthful energy provides Coach Nicholls with reliable options to shut down opposing attacks. Up front, senior Marley Chournos, one of the premier all-around athletes in the state, returns at striker, poised for a breakout campaign that could add another dimension to Bonneville’s scoring punch.

Lily Atkinson

Players to watch

Beyond the established stars, Bonneville’s depth will be critical to their success. Seniors Livia Byrne, Lola Stewart, Natalee Cherry, Brynlee Needham, and Tyrann Godfrey bring veteran leadership and versatility across the field. Junior Sophie White adds creativity and energy in the midfield, while sophomore Addison Nicholls is a rising talent expected to make an impact in her second varsity season. Together, this supporting cast strengthens the Lakers’ lineup and ensures they can compete with the best in Region 5.

Key departures

The Lakers will need to replace the production and leadership of three seniors lost to graduation: Mylie Faulk, Aniston Clawson, and Kate Garrigan. Each played a role in shaping Bonneville’s competitive edge last season, and their absence opens the door for the returning group to step into larger responsibilities.

With Dalton leading the offense, Atkinson securing the defense, and a supporting cast of proven contributors, the Lakers are built to rise. Coach Nicholls’ squad has the talent, depth, and competitive edge to challenge for the Region 5 championship and push far into the postseason. Bonneville enters 2026 not just ready to compete, but ready to set the standard.

photos courtesy of James Tate