As the Royal Knights prepare for the 2026 season, they are fueled by the desire to advance to the state tournament after a promising 2025 campaign that ended with a record of 13 wins and 3 losses. The team fell just short of their goal last year, and Head Coach Jens Jensen is keen to ensure they take the next step this time around.
Coach Jensen emphasized the importance of enhancing their scoring capabilities, particularly from set pieces. "I think we need to score," he stated, highlighting the necessity of converting free kicks and corner opportunities into goals. This focus on set pieces will be crucial for the Knights as they aim to build on their previous successes.
During the 2025 season, the Knights made a commendable run in the district tournament but faced setbacks against Naches Valley and the Wahluke Warriors, which ultimately ended their season. Looking ahead, the team retains a strong core of players, including Lauren Wardenaar, Maggie Frank, Hallie Christensen, Briseydi Pacheco, and goalkeeper Grace Soliz, all of whom are expected to contribute significantly this year.
Last season, Pacheco and Wardenaar emerged as the team's leading scorers, each netting 13 goals. Frank was instrumental in facilitating scoring opportunities, leading the team in assists, while Christensen played a key role in the defensive lineup. The return of this talented roster bodes well for the Knights as they seek to improve their performance.
However, the team will have to navigate the early part of the season without Soliz, who is recovering from a knee injury. Jensen has indicated that a freshman goalkeeper will step in during her absence, bringing valuable club soccer experience to the squad. "We got to make sure that she’s not taking shots," Jensen remarked, emphasizing the need for a strong defensive effort to support the young goalkeeper.
The Knights are setting ambitious goals for the season, with a target of achieving at least ten shutouts. Jensen believes that limiting the number of shots on goal will be essential to alleviate pressure on the new goalkeeper. He is confident in the team's attacking prowess, stating that they need to capitalize on free kicks and corners to maximize their scoring potential.
Despite their clear objectives, the Knights are aware of the challenges posed by a competitive South Central Athletic Conference. Jensen has identified Naches and Cashmere as formidable opponents, but he remains optimistic about his team's ability to rise to the occasion. "We know that already, then you’re just kind of looking at the teams that are left, and you’re wondering who’s going to come up with a team," he noted.
As the season unfolds, the Knights' primary goal remains clear: to excel in league play and secure a spot in the state tournament. Jensen articulated their aspirations, saying, "We’re hoping to do really well in league and find ourselves a spot in the state tournament, and hopefully be able to get a draw in the state tournament or a seeding that will help us avoid the top two or three teams and give ourselves a chance of winning that first game."
With over two decades of coaching experience, Jensen is excited to guide his players through another season. He expressed his appreciation for the hard work and camaraderie within the team, stating, "They work hard for each other. They’re very coachable, and they’re super easy to be around. It’s a great group, and coaching girls like that is a lot of fun." Notably, this season also holds personal significance for him, as his youngest daughter is joining the team as a freshman, adding a special dynamic to his coaching experience.
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