by James Tate

A new era under Head Coach Kennley Bradley

The Roy Royals enter the 2026 season with a renewed identity and a fresh sense of direction, driven by the arrival of Head Coach Kennley Bradley. A Roy High alum returning home, Bradley steps into the role with energy, vision, and a deep passion for the game. Her presence immediately elevates the program, setting a tone of discipline, competitiveness, and confidence.

Coach Bradley brings a high-level understanding of soccer shaped by her collegiate career at Texas State University, where she earned Texas State Defensive Player of the Year three years in a row (2023-2025). Known for her leadership and exceptional ability to read the game, she now channels those strengths into teaching her athletes how to think, adjust, and compete at a higher level. Look for the Royals to improve on the defensive side vastly.

Supporting Bradley are assistant coaches Kaytlin Bradley and Ryan Miles, both of whom bring valuable experience as players and coaches. Kaytlin is a former Weber State University standout goalkeeper, ready to bring her skill and knowledge to the Royals keeper group. Miles is a former pro indoor soccer player and club coach. Together, this staff forms a well-rounded, knowledgeable, and energetic coaching group ready to elevate the Royals.

Summer Garton

The Royals return a strong core of talent for 2026. Sophomore goalkeeper Lexi Beene anchors the defense with athleticism and fearlessness. Senior Summer Garton provides leadership and consistency, while sophomores Sunnie Pebley, Jenna Reed, and Phoebi Manzanares add youthful energy and potential. Juniors Brinlee Horman, Tayler Bennett, and Chloe Ellis return with varsity experience, leadership, and a drive to push the program forward. Behind them is a deep group of emerging players eager to compete and contribute.

The team will also look to fill the void left by two major departures. Taylee Zamora and Jordyn Davies, both standout contributors and leaders for the Royals, graduated last spring and will continue their soccer careers at Central Wyoming College this fall. Their presence, experience, and production will be missed, but their success at the next level serves as a point of pride for the program and a motivator for the athletes stepping into larger roles.

With a new coaching identity, returning experience, and a roster full of promise, the Royals enter the season poised for growth. Coach Bradley’s arrival marks the beginning of a new era, one defined by discipline, unity, and a belief in what this team can become.

Lexi Beene

photos courtesy of James Tate