Oregon Women’s Soccer hosts youth camp in Bend ahead of 2026 season

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)-- With the college athletics season just around the corner, the University of Oregon women's soccer team spent the weekend in Central Oregon, hosting a youth soccer camp at the Bend FC fields while preparing for the upcoming 2026 season.

Led by head coach Tracy Joyner, the Ducks combined preseason training with community outreach, giving local athletes the opportunity to learn from Division I players. Joyner said the trip was about more than preparing for the season—it was about growing the game of soccer across Oregon.

"We're here to support the community and get as much excitement around our program as we can," Joyner said. "Soccer is such an important sport for the state, and we want as many supporters as possible. More importantly, we want to bring as much joy to the game as we can with these players and this community. We're really happy to be here."

Joyner also enjoyed watching her players step into coaching roles and share their passion for the sport with the next generation.

"I love to see them extend their knowledge, their joy, and their passion for what they're doing with these players," Joyner said. "It's great."

The Ducks' roster includes athletes from across the country, but one player has deep Central Oregon ties. Junior Kate Cheldelin developed her game with Bend FC before joining Oregon, making the camp a homecoming of sorts.

"We're just getting more involved and giving back to the community," Cheldelin said. "It's great to see the youth because I used to be one of them. To see them from the very beginning, have them come to our games, support us, and now be able to give back and stay involved is really special."

Oregon partnered with Bend FC to host the camp. Bend FC players attended for free, while non-club participants could register for $75.

For the young athletes, the event provided a chance to sharpen their skills, learn from Division I players, and spend the day with one of the state's top collegiate soccer programs.

"It's awesome," one camper said. "I love all the coaches and all the players. It's a really good experience."" I think it shows how much they love soccer," another camper said, "and that they're willing to go out of their way to teach everyone and share their love for the sport."

Following the youth camp, the Ducks held a preseason training session that was open for the community to watch.

While the event also served as a fundraiser for Oregon's upcoming season, the program said its primary goal was creating a memorable experience for local players and inspiring a new generation of Ducks fans.

Oregon opens the 2026 season on Aug. 13 at Hillsboro Stadium against Portland State. The Ducks also said they hope to make their visit to Central Oregon an annual tradition.