The club’s season turnaround is reflected in its 2026 results: after a combined 7-2-11 record in its first two years, CKU is listed at 8-3-1 this year. It also sets up a rematch, with CKU and Dodge City having played to a 3-3 draw on April 25.
CKU’s success is tied to key contributors and local ties, including offensive production from Noel Zimbeva and a defensive presence in goal from Santiago Pagnutti. Midfielder Geraldo Garcia returned to Salina for the summer after playing professionally in Spain, and head coach Juan Maldonado said he emphasized keeping a consistent core group of returning players. Maldonado also recruits from Salina South and Kansas Wesleyan, including former or current Salina South players Seth Flores, Rodrigo Palacios, Rylan Snell and Adrian Lara.
Saturday’s championship game at Bethany College begins at 7:30 p.m., featuring CKU’s men’s team against the Dodge City Toros.