PORT ORCHARD, WA—Port Orchard Football Club signed four players the second week in February, laying a foundation for the 2025 season roster.
Returning to POFC are midfielder Kolby Juarez, defender Ryan Anderson, goalkeeper Austin Valdez and defender Caleb Gilbert.
“It was a great week for POFC,” says Head Coach Patrick Leonard. “These four signings send a clear signal to our supporters, opponents and future players that we are building something special for 2025. The work done as far as player recruitment so far is a credit to the staff working hard behind the scenes and the support creating such an attractive environment for a player to want to be involved in.”
Kolby Juarez (Bremerton) scored perhaps the most famous goal in POFC’s young history when his stoppage time strike against Crossfire sent Port Orchard to the 2024 CPL1 Championship Match. Juarez is a graduate of Central Kitsap High School currently attending and playing soccer at The Evergreen State University.
Ryan Anderson (Poulsbo) signs for his third season with POFC. The defender is a graduate of North Kitsap High School and played first-team soccer at Northwest University.
Austin Valdez (Seattle) joined POFC for part of the 2024 season. He returns after completing his first season (transfer) at Utah Valley University.
Caleb Gilbert (Gig Harbor) played a crucial role in strengthening the POFC defense down the stretch and in the 2024 playoffs. Caleb is back after a stellar freshman season with Saint Mary’s Minnesota where he played over 1,400 minutes.
General Manager Sam Ironside is encouraged. “Establishing a good base of players to build around sets a precedent for our success going in to the season and what better show of intent than bringing 4 key parts of our 2024 season back for another year? It’s a definite sign that we aren’t going to stop building and improving year upon year. It’s exciting times for the club and I’m looking forward to seeing who’s next as we aim for another title this year.”
Port Orchard Football Club continues to talk with former players and new recruits as it builds a club to compete for a championship in 2025.
Open tryout details will be announced soon for players wanting to make an impression on POFC coaches in person.
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