After winning the 3A West but coming up short at the state tournament last year, the Powell Panther boys’ soccer team is hoping to rebuild and contend once again despite losing three All-State selections from a year ago.

Eight seniors graduated from last year’s edition of the Panthers, scoring 15 of their 38 goals along with several starting defenders and their starting goalkeeper.

“We’ve got to get some of these newer players up to date with our playing style,” coach David Gilliatt said. “Get them on the same page decision-making wise. Newer players are looking for direction and they can’t learn those things overnight. It takes time, obviously it would be great to have three weeks of practice time with some of these guys but you also get kind of restless and want to test yourself.”

Leading the way for Powell will be its leading scorer from a year ago, two-time All-State selection Chance Franks who was also the 3A Underclassman of the Year after leading Powell with 15 goals.

Other seniors returning for the Panthers include All-Conference selection Parker Williams and Will Jackson.

Juniors returning with experience for the Panthers are Landon Hernandez, Trevon Abraham, Dexter Opps, Jason Medina and Truett Carter.

One returning sophomore for Powell who received varsity time last year was Ethan Frame.

Along with returning experience, the Panthers have brought in several players this year whose athleticism could allow them to work their way into the lineup along with some freshmen with playing experience.

“I’m excited about our potential. I think we have good, athletic players. Even though they may be new to the sport they have the aptitude to learn, they’re coachable and they have raw athletic ability we can work with,” Gilliatt
said. “The returning players are doing a good job of demonstrating leadership, making them feel comfortable and getting them up to speed with the rest of the team.”

A year removed from a 10-5 season the Panthers are hoping to continue contending this season, with the 3A level expected to be competitive throughout the state after strong senior classes graduated around the state last year.

“It’s early to tell how we will fare against opposition,” Gilliatt said.

Kicking off the season the Panthers will make the trip to Pinedale to take on the Wranglers at 1:30 p.m. for a 3A West contest.

“It’s always good to be tested,” Gilliatt said. “I’m looking to see who my leaders are going to be. It’ll be good to see how they react with real pressure.”

The Panthers are hoping for a strong start to the season to progress towards the state tournament in just over two months in Green River on May 16-18 in search of a first program title.

“I’m excited for the season, I think we have good potential,” Gilliatt said.