The Dalles soccer girls team is ready for 2026

THE DALLES — Coming off a state championship appearance last season, The Dalles/Dufur High School girls soccer program enters the fall with a large group of experienced players and no shortage of motivation.

Despite losing four seniors from last year’s team, the Riverhawks return six seniors this fall and enter the season ranked fourth in the first OSAA coaches poll.

“We have a really experienced team,” said Riverhawk head Coach Colby Tonn. “Most of them have played varsity since freshman year to some extent.”

Among the team’s key returners are senior twin sisters Ariana Gonzalez and Lilyana Gonzalez, who play forward and attacking midfield, respectively, and were both selected to the Class 4A all-state team last season.

Alondra Romero returns as a fast and aggressive winger, while Yaritza Torres-Escobedo is back at left back. Tonn considers Torres-Escobedo one of the top left backs in the state at the 4A level. Kaiya Doty is another returning senior who will play center back. Doty is also a three-sport athlete.

In goal, the Riverhawks return Olivia Prado, who was named the player of the game for The Dalles in last year’s state championship match.

The Dalles also brings back two key juniors: center back Bryce Newby and attacking midfielder Willow Ziegenhagen. Ziegenhagen earned third-team all-state honors as a sophomore last season.

While the Riverhawks have several players who received individual recognition, Tonn emphasized that the program’s success has been built on a collective approach.

“We cover as a team, we attack as a team, and we defend as a team,” said Tonn. “We defend from the front.”

The team is working to expand its attacking and possession skills, including new ways to strike the ball and maintain control.

“It’s crazy to say, with scoring 96 goals, that we think there’s more to do,” said Tonn. “But they want to improve. They know they can be better, and they’re still hungry to get better and not just rest on their laurels.”

Although the schedule will be demanding, the Riverhawks welcome the opportunity to test themselves against strong competition. “You want to have tough games,” said Tonn. “That’s why athletes play — to challenge themselves, get better and see how well they can perform.”

“I really appreciate that they play as a team. The program does well at including everybody from top to bottom. I think that sets the tone for a quality program and a good experience for all players.”