by James Tate

Head Coach: Tara Ferrin

2025-26 Record: Overall (14-9), Region (4-4)

If a team is poised to make a serious run at a Region 1 championship and beyond, Farmington belongs at the top of the list.

The Phoenix return the core of a team that finished 14-9 overall last season and posted an impressive 8-2 record at home. With a talented group of experienced juniors returning, Farmington enters the season with the depth, athleticism and versatility needed to challenge anyone on its schedule.

Having played together for years, the Phoenix have developed a chemistry that is difficult to replicate. Their confidence, relentless style of play and high basketball IQ allow them to excel on both ends of the floor and make them one of the most formidable teams in Region 1.

Ellie Dorius

Talented core returns

Leading the way are juniors Olive Wayland, Ellie Dorius, Makelle Weber and Brooklyn Romney, a quartet that helped fuel one of Region 1’s most balanced attacks last year.

What makes Farmington particularly dangerous is its ability to spread the scoring load. Wayland led the team with 9.5 points per game, followed by Dorius at 8.4, Weber at 7.7, and Romney at 7.1. With multiple players capable of carrying the offense on any given night, opposing defenses have few opportunities to focus on a single scoring threat.

Wayland, an All-Region First Team selection, emerged as one of the team’s top performers last season, highlighted by a 25-point, four-rebound effort in a narrow three-point loss to Davis. A gifted multisport athlete, Wayland also competes in lacrosse, soccer, and flag football for the Phoenix.

Dorius, an All-Region Second Team selection, brings outstanding athleticism and a complete all-around game to the lineup. She showcased her versatility in a victory over Sky View, finishing with 14 points, six rebounds, four steals, and three blocks. Away from the hardwood, Dorius won the 2026 5A state cross-country championship.

Weber has provided consistency throughout her career and has been a starter since her freshman season. A primary ball handler and another standout multisport athlete, Weber delivered one of her best performances against Layton, scoring 15 points while adding four steals.

Romney, also an All-Region Second Team selection last year, adds perimeter firepower to the Phoenix attack. Her shooting ability was on full display last season when she knocked down six 3-pointers in separate games against Lehi and Syracuse.

Brooklyn Romney

Defense sets the tone

While the offensive balance attracts attention, the Phoenix’s success begins on the defensive end of the floor.

Farmington allowed just 41 points per game last season, and each member of its talented junior core plays a critical role in maintaining the team’s defensive identity. Their length, athleticism, and experience make the Phoenix one of the more complete teams in Region 1.

The Phoenix also feature important contributors beyond their leading scorers. Sophomore Devan Howey emerged as a valuable contributor last year, appearing in 20 games and scoring a career-high 17 points against Layton. Fellow sophomore Evie Stewart also appeared in 20 games and is viewed as one of the program’s rising stars as she prepares for an expanded role this season.

The program’s growth has mirrored the development of its talented junior class. Entering her fourth season, Coach Tara Ferrin has steadily elevated the Phoenix, increasing the team’s win total each year. After winning just two games during the 2023-24 season, Farmington has continued to build momentum, culminating in a 14-win campaign last winter.

The Phoenix won’t have to wait long for an early measuring stick. Farmington opens the season against Copper Hills, the same team that ended its playoff run last season. The matchup gives the Phoenix an immediate chance to test themselves against a quality opponent while seeking redemption from last season’s postseason exit.

With experience, athleticism, shooting, and defensive intensity, Farmington enters the season with the tools necessary to contend for a Region 1 championship and make a deep postseason run. If the Phoenix continue the upward trajectory established under Coach Ferrin, they may find themselves among the final teams standing in Class 6A.

photos courtesy of James Tate