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Juneau players helping Alaska to national soccer tournament
- Klas Stolpe
- 20 hours ago
- 3 min read
JDHS’ Bryce Haygood, Troy Edgar playing for Alaska Rush, won regions in Idaho, heading to nationals in Kansas.
By Klas Stolpe
Juneau Independent
Juneau-Douglas High School: Yadaa.at Kalé incoming juniors Bryce Haygood and Troy Edgar helped the age 17-and-under 2009B Alaska Rush soccer club win the 2026 US Youth Soccer Northwest Presidents Cup National Qualifier in Boise, Idaho, June 16-19.
“Bryce Haygood is a standout utility player for our Alaska Rush 2009 soccer team, capable of excelling in any position on the field,” Alaska Rush coach Seth O’Banion said. “His versatility, football IQ, and athleticism make him a valuable player on the roster. Whether anchoring the defense, controlling the midfield, or leading the attack, Bryce’s work rate and skill consistently shine.”
Alaska Rush defeated Washington Premier FC 3-0, fell to Real Gold-PR 3-2, defeated Bend FC Select 2-0 and IFFIC Claret-Clarkson 1-0, and topped Bend FC Select 3-0.
“Troy Edgar is a dynamic outside wing player, known for his exceptional speed and goal-scoring prowess,” coach O’Banion said. “Troy’s ability to beat defenders with explosive runs down the flank and deliver dangerous crosses or clinical finishes makes him a constant threat on the attack. His pace creates countless opportunities for the team and keeps opponents on their heels throughout every match.”
Edgar did not try out for Alaska Rush, but was invited by the team. He has been playing with them now for four years.
“We had a well-balanced team this year,” Edgar said. “After hours of practice and training, winning felt good! I feel we deserved it because of how much we worked together to win and how hard we worked together in training. Our team efforts were rewarded with the Region Title championship. We are all looking forward to Wichita for the Nationals. Here goes!”
Winning the Northwest Presidents Cup means Alaska Rush advances to the pinnacle of youth club soccer, the 2026 US Youth Soccer Presidents Cup National Championships, July 7-11, in Wichita, Kansas.
“Troy and I were invited by the manager to guest play for a state cup tournament,” Bryce Haygood said of his start with Alaska Rush. “We ended up winning the tournament and have been on the team ever since. Presidents Cup was truly a great experience that I will cherish forever. I have competed in quite a few out-of-state tournaments, and have won only one of them besides Presidents. Playing in competition like this is unheard of in Alaska and I am so glad I get to experience it. Not only are Troy and I representing Alaska, we are representing Juneau. Hopefully we can do well and make Alaska proud.”
Winning the qualifying tournament can be a nightmare for Alaska teams as they have to respond quickly and travel to the national venue, which leaves little time for fundraising.
“Your community continues to produce amazing soccer players and ever more exceptional young men,” coach O’Banion said. “Our Alaska Rush 2009 team is privileged to have these players join us at Presidents Cup Nationals this year.”
• Contact Klas Stolpe at sports@juneauindependent.com
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