by James Tate

Head Coach: Kam Nordfors

2026 Record: Overall (10-8) Region (9-3)

The Clearfield Falcons enter the 2026 season with momentum, confidence, and a renewed sense of identity after Head Coach Kam Nordfors guided the program to a share of the Region 5 championship in his debut year. Tied atop the standings with West Field and Box Elder, the Falcons established a disciplined, possession‑driven style that reshaped the team’s culture and earned respect across the region.

Last fall, Clearfield split its matchups with both West Field and Box Elder, proving the Falcons could stand toe‑to‑toe with the league’s best. Their playoff run ended in the second round against Springville, but the experience sharpened a young roster that returns hungry, seasoned, and determined to climb even higher.

Emmery Johnson

The attack will once again center around junior Emmery Johnson, the team’s leading returning scorer after netting seven goals in 2025. Johnson’s ability to slip into pockets of space, create chances, and finish under pressure makes her the focal point of Clearfield’s offensive identity. Senior Claire Hadley and junior Lyla Leonhardt are poised for breakout seasons of their own, veteran leaders who bring pace, toughness, and the kind of consistency that can tilt tight region matches.

They anchor a deep supporting cast that includes Lyla Christensen, Victoria Reid, Emma Mason, Harley Miller, and Cahtaya Christensen, all players capable of shaping the Falcons’ attack and midfield balance throughout the season.

In goal, senior Mia Nichol steps into the role of primary keeper, bringing maturity, communication, and a calming presence to the back line. Her leadership should stabilize a defense that will rely on cohesion and discipline as it adjusts to new faces and expanded roles. Senior Makaylah Anderson is another key contributor, a versatile player who gives Clearfield flexibility across multiple positions and strengthens the team’s ability to adapt to different matchups.

Claire Hadley

Nordfors’ possession‑oriented system is now firmly rooted, giving the Falcons a strong foundation to build upon. Clearfield will aim not only to defend its share of the region crown but also to push deeper into the state tournament, where their composed, ball‑control style could prove decisive against higher‑ranked opponents. Last season’s numerous comeback victories showcased the team’s resilience; this year’s group has the talent to turn those late‑game heroics into more consistent dominance.

The Falcons do graduate several cornerstone players, Tatum Thomas (Utah State University), Kamryn Weaver (Salt Lake Community College), Raegan Cornell (Central Wyoming College), Olivia Nordfors, and Abby Hoffman, but the returning core is strong enough to keep Clearfield firmly in the Region 5 title conversation.

With experience, chemistry, and a clear identity, the Falcons enter 2026 as a team built to contend again.

photos courtesy of James Tate