KAYSVILLE — Based on school populations, Viewmont and Davis enjoy arguably the biggest high school rivalry in Utah.
The rivalry is also fierce in boys soccer, but a unique relationship between the two coaches has given this grudge match a different feel.
Viewmont coach Casey Layton and Davis coach Shawn Johnson grew up as best friends and played together at Viewmont High. Their friendship continues to this day, and because of that, animosity has been replaced with mutual appreciation whenever the two squads hook up.
"Instead of the programs hating each other," said Layton, "they respect each other."
As both teams become engrossed in Region 1 action, they face a similar set of challenges. Each of them are trying to successfully replace senior-laden squads from a year ago, and despite the losses, both squads have high expectations for the season.
Should either team slip up, though, there isn't any question who the other will start rooting for.
"If I can't win," said Layton, "he might as well win it."
The duo went through school together and eventually made their way to Viewmont High. Johnson, a sweeper, and Layton, a striker, helped Viewmont win the 1988 state title.
A few years later, they both became assistant coaches on Viewmont's staff. And, after that, Layton become the head coach at Viewmont, while Johnson took over at Davis.
How close are they?
"The only way we could be closer is if we had the same parents," said Johnson.
Added Layton: "He's like my brother."
Asked whether they're best friends except when they play each other, Johnson responded: "I'm best friends with him even during the game."
The friends live in the same neighborhood, and, along with their families, they take vacations together, including a trip to Moab this week.
All in all, they've helped continue an exciting rivalry. Both teams have scored a handful of big wins over each other down the years, but, according to Johnson, almost all the contests have been close.
"I don't remember a blowout," he said.
Region 1 soccer glance
(Rankings based on standings through April 10)
1. DAVIS: Having lost 5A MVP Tim Wiser to graduation, many didn't know what to expect from the Darts. So far, they've been impressive. Forward Zach Dupaix is a talented striker. He has lots of speed and can run onto through balls. Dupaix and winger Ryan Satterthwaite are Davis' two most experienced returners from last year's squad, which won the Region 1 title. Others like Billy Harlow are expected to step up.
2005 RECORD: 12-3-2.
PLAYOFFS: Lost in quarterfinals.
1. VIEWMONT: They had to replace a host of players off last year's team, including its defense and goalkeepers. Kyle Young has helped lead the effort. He's solid in defense and also gets forward quite well. Offensively, Jake Layton and Travis Richens can score goals and create chances for others.
2005 RECORD: 14-4-1.
PLAYOFFS: Lost in title game.
3. WEBER: On the heels of last year's topsy-turvy campaign, Weber looks for more consistency in 2006. They're hoping star forward Andrew Morris can help provide it. The senior was injured at the end of last season, which ended in the opening round of the playoffs, but he's back and looks to anchor the Warriors. He had scored eight goals through last week. Chris Capener and Jayden Garfield have also been banging in goals.
2005 RECORD: 8-8-1.
PLAYOFFS: Lost in first round.
4. LAYTON: It's still fairly hard to get a good feel for the Lancers. They feature a pair of outstanding players — Kellen Christensen and Nyle Ortiz — but it remains uncertain whether they'll have enough depth behind the two stars. Coach Rick Talamantez moved Christensen back to sweeper, a position he plays for his club team, Inter FC, and the senior has helped provide stability in defense.
2005 RECORD: 10-3-5.
PLAYOFFS: Lost in quarterfinals.
5. FREMONT: They started the season hot, winning their first five matches before losing to Viewmont and later to Layton. Transfer Spencer Rose was a big part of the early success. Entering this week, the junior had bagged eight goals. If the league continues to shape up the way many think it will, Fremont will battle the Lancers for the fourth-and-final playoff slot.
2005 RECORD: 11-6-0.
PLAYOFFS: Lost in first round.
6. NORTHRIDGE: Since starting 2-1 back in the preseason, the Knights have struggled to pick up wins. Offensively, Giancarlo Candiotta and Jordan Miller had scored two goals a piece at the start of the week. Coach Rich Callister will hope for improvement as the season wears on.
2005 RECORD: 3-11-0.
PLAYOFFS: Did not make playoffs.
6. CLEARFIELD: The Falcons had fairly high expectations for their team back in the preseason, but, for whatever reason, things haven't gone as expected. Clint Bybee, Mike Klemmer, Jordan Jacobson and Travis Sisneros are Clearfield's main returners. Like Northridge, they'll hope to get better during the league schedule.
2005 RECORD: 2-12-1.
PLAYOFFS: Did not make playoffs.
— Dan Rasmussen
E-mail: drasmussen@desnews.com