Council honors Bountiful High boys soccer team for state championship

The council paused business to recognize Bountiful High School’s state champion boys soccer team.

Coach Gabe Johnson, in his first season as head coach, described the team as "resilient," citing a semifinal comeback from 0–2 at halftime to win and the final match decided by a penalty kick with 51 seconds left in the second overtime. "Watching that rocket up into the top part of the post underneath the top bar was just an incredible feeling," Johnson said.

Coach Johnson introduced captains and players present for the ceremony, including Dominic Loato, Ken Shirley, David Adams, Cade Castleberry, Talis Kablakunch, Becket Barlo, Pim Deong (a senior exchange student), Giovanni Loado (goalkeeper), Jack Bianbe, Isaac Dunston, Talon Willie, Wes Jones, Thoren Mendoza, and David Kesler. Council members offered congratulations, recounted athletic memories, and joined the team for a photo with the trophy.

Council members emphasized the character lessons of teamwork and resilience and encouraged underclassmen to defend the title next season. The recognition was celebratory and did not require council action.