Renton boys soccer team makes history

For the first time since 1985, Renton will be represented on the state tournament pitch.

By Benjamin Ray • May 13, 2024 12:37 pm
Jonathan Martinez Rodas in action against Foster. Photo Provided by ThuyVy Nguyen.
Jonathan Martinez Rodas in action against Foster. Photo Provided by ThuyVy Nguyen.

For the first time since 1985, Renton High School is being represented at the boys soccer state tournament.

Renton had to work overtime to get there, finishing in fourth place in 2A KingCo as they entered the district tournament. The Redhawks were the 11th overall seed and were in loser-out games the entire time.

Renton dismantled Enumclaw (3-0) and Clover Park (3-0) before the biggest game of their careers against rivals Sammamish.

Over the course of the regular season, Renton and Sammamish tied in both fixtures this season (2-2 March 29, 1-1 April 23).

Renton defeated Sammamish to advance to the state tournament with a 2-1 win on May 11. The Redhawks now face Columbia River, the sixth seed, May 14 down in Vancouver.

Also of note, the Redhawks have made the state tournament just three times in school history — 1985, 1983 and 1982. In all three years, Renton is still looking for that first win in the state tournament. Given how successful and remarkable this season has been, there is even more history to be made with this group.