Clark’s Culture, Bertos’ Moment: Inside Washington’s Winning Standard | NSN Exclusive

Dec 19, 2025 45 Views NCAA COLLEGE SOCCER

Fourteen seasons into his tenure on Montlake, Jamie Clark has done far more than build a winning program — he has established a standard.

Ryan Glinski sat down with Washington men’s soccer head coach Jamie Clark and golden goal winner Harrison Bertos in an NSN exclusive interview following another defining moment for the Huskies, one that reflected both the culture Clark has spent more than a decade shaping and the players now carrying it forward on the field.

Since taking over as Washington’s ninth head coach in 2011, Clark has orchestrated the meteoric rise of the Huskies into one of the nation’s premier college soccer programs. Across 14 seasons, Clark has compiled a 178-68-41 record at UW, captured three Pac-12 titles, and guided Washington to 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. Four of those postseason runs reached the NCAA Quarterfinals, including three straight from 2019–21 — a stretch that firmly cemented Washington among the national elite.

Washington’s success under Clark has been built on consistency, development, and a clear competitive identity. The Huskies have reached five NCAA Quarterfinals, produced 30 MLS draftees or Homegrown signings, and developed 12 All-Americans and 95 All-Conference selections. Clark himself has been named Pac-12 Coach of the Year four times and ranks second in program history in career wins.

The program’s most successful campaign came in 2021, when Washington reached the College Cup and finished as national runner-up after an 18-win season — the best in school history. More recently, Clark guided the Huskies through their transition into the Big Ten, returning Washington to the NCAA Tournament in 2024 and reaffirming the program’s national relevance.

That standard was on full display again as Harrison Bertos delivered the decisive golden goal, a moment that underscored both preparation and trust within the Huskies’ system.

Now one of the anchors of Washington’s back line, Bertos has steadily grown into his role since arriving in Seattle. A United Soccer Coaches Third Team All-American and All-Big Ten First Team selection, Bertos has logged heavy minutes throughout the season while helping lead a Husky defense that recorded seven shutouts.

The golden goal not only sealed the match, but also symbolized the growth of a player developed within Clark’s system. From his early collegiate appearances to becoming a national award winner and MLS SuperDraft selection, Bertos’ progression reflects Washington’s emphasis on long-term player development.

As Washington continues its pursuit of championships in the Big Ten era, the formula remains unchanged. Clark’s long-term vision, paired with players ready to deliver in defining moments, has kept the Huskies among college soccer’s elite for more than a decade.