Roy High girls soccer head coach Kennley Bradley is preparing for her second year with the Royals after a developmental season concluded last week. Bradley, who will marry Luke and become Kennley Bowthorpe on Nov. 13, aims to build on the foundations laid by a young roster during her maiden voyage.
The 2026 season served as a learning period for a roster characterized by youth, featuring 10 freshmen, 13 sophomores, and only one senior. Bradley noted that while the team's 2-16 record did not meet her personal expectations, it did not fully reflect the performance or growth of the players.
Statistically, the Royals showed defensive improvement by allowing 12 fewer goals than the previous 2-15 team from 2025. However, the offense struggled, netting only four goals across 12 league games. The team's scoring trend shifted late in the season when they recorded three goals in their final two games.
Sophomore Ruby Turpin emerged as a significant contributor, scoring five of the team's 10 total goals. Bradley utilized Turpin in various roles, eventually moving her to center back late in the season to bolster the defense alongside Hanna Moyes and senior Summer Garton.
Looking toward future seasons, Bradley expressed interest in expanding the program from 31 players to 40, potentially fielding both freshman and sophomore teams. She stated her goal is to create an environment that helps players fall in love with the sport while maintaining high standards and accountability.
Bradley, a 2021 Roy High graduate, joined the coaching staff in March after interviewing with former athletic director Mike Puzey. She has been supported by assistant coaches Ryan Miles and Kaytlin Bradley. The program has faced challenges in recent years, having not won a Region 5 game since October 2023 and lacking a winning season since 2022.
As the program moves toward 2027, Bradley remains focused on increasing offensive output and reducing goals allowed. She emphasized that the coaching staff is committed to the long-term development of the players to turn the program into a team to be reckoned with.
