The Real Monarchs have strengthened their roster for the remainder of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season by signing Utah native Zach Lifferth and acquiring defender Hayden Sargis on loan. The moves, announced by the club on Sunday, August 23, 2026, add offensive and defensive depth to the squad as the team continues a four-game road trip.
Lifferth Signs First Professional Deal
Real Monarchs signed 23-year-old forward Zach Lifferth to an MLS NEXT Pro deal. The agreement keeps Lifferth with the club through the end of the 2026 campaign and includes a club option for the 2027 season. A native of Saratoga Springs, Utah, Lifferth signed his first professional contract following his graduation from Liberty University earlier this spring.
A Product of Utah Soccer
Lifferth brings a significant scoring record to the Monarchs. During his senior season, he recorded 10 goal contributions, consisting of eight goals and two assists in 16 matches. Before his time at Liberty, Lifferth played for Snow College during the 2020-22 seasons, where he scored 27 goals in 45 appearances in NJCAA Division One.
Collegiate and Local Roots
Lifferth's collegiate career also included a stint at Utah Valley University. During that time, he made 12 appearances and scored one goal while playing for then head coach and RSL legend Kyle Beckerman. He is a graduate of Westlake High School.
Sargis Joins via Loan
The Monarchs also secured defender Hayden Sargis via a loan from USL One side Athletic Club Boise. The 24-year-old Sargis will join the team for the remainder of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season. Sargis has logged six appearances and two starts during Athletic Club Boise's 10-7-4 inaugural season.
Professional Experience and Background
Sargis has extensive professional experience, having previously played for D.C. United in Major League Soccer. During his time with D.C. United, he appeared in three matches while spending much of his tenure on loan with Loudoun United, Phoenix Rising, and Las Vegas Lights. He is a product of the Sacramento Republic Academy.
Sargis's Previous Career Milestones
Prior to his transfer to D.C. United in 2022, Sargis played in the USL Championship, making 33 appearances. In 2025, he transferred to Orlando City B, where he made 24 appearances, including 15 starts, while contributing one goal and one assist.
Monarchs Road Trip Update
The roster additions come as the Real Monarchs conclude a four-game road trip. The team was scheduled to play Colorado Rapids 2 on Sunday, August 23, following a scheduling change for their previous match. A fixture against Minnesota United FC 2, originally set for last Friday, was postponed to September 16.
