The Madras High School boys soccer team's 2026 season ended Monday evening in the first round of the OSAA 4A State Championships, dropping a 6-0 decision to top-seeded and defending champion Stayton. While the final score wasn't the result the Buffs had hoped for, the team's qualification for the state tournament marked a meaningful achievement for a program that showed grit and improvement throughout the fall.
Stayton Too Much for Madras in Round One
The Buffs entered the playoffs as the No. 16 seed, earning the right to compete in the postseason after closing their regular season strong — including a 4-1 win over Molalla on October 27. But Monday's first-round matchup drew a tough assignment: the Eagles of Stayton, the No. 1 seed and reigning 4A state champions.
Stayton showed why they're the class of the division, with Josiah Dessieux and Edwyn Perez each scoring twice, while Cesar Perez and Ruben Bell added one goal apiece in the dominant 6-0 victory. The Eagles advance while the Buffs' season comes to a close.
A Season of Progress
The 2026 campaign for Madras boys soccer had its share of challenges and highlights. The team opened the year with a 4-1 home win over Sisters in the season opener and competed through a demanding Tri-Valley Conference schedule. Though the record didn't always reflect it, the team showed improvement in key areas — earning their playoff spot with a competitive finish to the regular season.
Senior players led the charge in the program's culture and work ethic. While the state bracket didn't go their way, qualifying for postseason play and stepping on the pitch against the state's best is an experience that shapes young athletes.
Lady Buffs Also Wrapped Up Their Season
The Madras girls soccer team also closed out their season recently, putting up a fight in their final match against Gladstone. Though they came up short in what was a senior night to remember, Coach Alonso praised the team's character: "I'm proud of the way our team fought until the very last minute. The scoreboard doesn't define who we are or the hard work we continue to put in every day."
Looking Ahead
With soccer wrapped up and fall sports winding down, the Madras athletic calendar shifts to winter programs. Boys and girls basketball seasons are on the horizon — a chance for Buffs athletes to carry that competitive spirit into the gym. Stay with the Madras Bulletin for coverage of winter sports as the 2026-27 season gets underway.
To the boys soccer team, coaching staff, and families: a solid season and a postseason berth to be proud of. Go Buffs.