When it comes to soccer program success, there aren’t many example better than the Auburn Riverside Ravens.

Since 2019, the Ravens have made the state tournament four times and are at the top of the standings nearly every year. This year, however, they will be challenged.

Last year, Auburn Riverside was the fifth seed in the state tournament and was matched up with the Mead Panthers, who were the 12th seed. The Ravens were upset, 3-0, ending their season prematurely. That disappointment set a fire for the Ravens, who are even more motivated to get back to the state tournament.

“For me it is motivation,” said junior midfielder Harper Curnutt.

“I think we can push ourselves to get to state and make it further. I don’t think that was a good representation of us as a team,” she added.

At the 4A level, the Ravens will face Kentwood, Kentridge, Tahoma and Stadium a total of eight times. Stadium, Kentridge and Tahoma all went to state last year, while Kentwood finished just five points behind Tahoma for a league title.

To say the league is going to be competitive is an understatement.

“Every game is going to be exciting … It is going to test us a lot. The kids are looking forward to the challenge,” Manager Paul Lewis said.

A difficult schedule will lead to a more prepared Auburn Riverside team when the regular season ends and the postseason gets underway.

“Last year we were beating teams six and seven to zero, and when it came to state, it was a bit harder to transition. But now that we are playing games that are more challenging, it won’t be as much of a shock to us,” said senior Caitlin Riggs.

One familiar face that is going to be missing is Rory Murry, who graduated and is now playing at the University of Wyoming. Her presence is going to be missed, especially her leadership and her voice.

But waiting in the wings is a freshman keeper, Sydney Winter, who is eager to get started and show her skills in front of the net.

“She’s doing a good job… There are going to be some ups and down and learning and growth. She’s going to do great,” Lewis said.

Senior Caitlin Riggs has been a goal scoring machine, leading the team in goals last year. The University of Idaho commit played with the Tacoma Stars over the summer and is looking to push her team forward this year.

Someone who plays very similar to Riggs — they have even flip-flopped positions a couple of times — is Layla Bejar.

Bejar is the rock for the Ravens defense. But she hasn’t always been the center back. Prior to the last two years, Bejar was the striker. But now she has taken huge steps to be a solid center back. “She has stepped up and killed it,” Curnutt said.

The Ravens are starting their season at home against Battle Ground Sept. 9 with kickoff at 6 p.m.

Raven player serves a ball at practice. Ben Ray / The Reporter