Great Hearts Roosevelt Athletics Honored with CAA Champions of Character Awards

This past week, Great Hearts Roosevelt celebrated an impressive achievement as six student-athletes, the coed soccer team, and one coach were recognized with the  Canyon Athletic Association (CAA) Champions of Character Awards.

“This award is given to athletes, coaches, and teams that best demonstrate the core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership,” shared Carl Wunsch, Athletic Director at Great Hearts Roosevelt. “These honors speak to what we value most in our athletics program—developing young people of strong character who lead with integrity. I’m incredibly proud of each of these student-athletes, our teams, and Coach Diaz Anino. They are more than competitors—they are role models who live out our mission every day.”

Winners are chosen for their leadership, attitude, and the example they set for teammates and the broader school community, as well as athletic achievement. Nominees are submitted by coaches and athletic directors throughout the CAA, with final selections made by the board. This year, only 28 student-athletes, 10 coaches, and 1 team were selected from among all CAA participants, making this recognition even more meaningful.

Individual Student-Athlete CAA Champions of Character Awardees:

Emma Bustos (Volleyball, Track & Field) – Bustos embodies humble leadership. Her hard work, consistent support of teammates, and high standards in both athletics and academics make her a shining example of character.

Malik Johnson (Basketball, Flag Football) – A committed student-leader, Johnson’s integrity, accountability, and respect for the game distinguish him as a standout role model across campus.

Yahokim Johnson (Basketball, Flag Football) – A Sunrise Region Player of the Year in basketball and 1st Team All-State in flag football, Johnson also shines off the field. As a Squadron Commander, he promotes school spirit with humility and grace.

Chris Hernandez (Basketball, Flag Football, Track & Field) – Hernandez is the definition of grit and growth. Always fearless in taking on new challenges, he leads through persistence, continuous improvement, and peer mentorship.

Julian Dominguez (Soccer) – Dominguez’s servant leadership is evident through his influence in student leadership roles, always leading with humility, energy, and a team-first attitude.

Delaney Petrie (Volleyball) – Known for her quiet consistency and unwavering character, Petrie leads by example through effort and respect, earning the trust of her teammates and coaches.

CAA Champions of Character Winning Team:

Great Hearts Roosevelt Coed Soccer Team – The team exemplifies servant leadership and unity. Whether helping with school events or supporting younger athletes, they consistently represent the values of integrity and class both on and off the field.

CAA Champion of Character Coach Awardee:

Coach Cesar Diaz Anino (High School Soccer) – Coach Diaz Anino is a model of character-driven leadership. By emphasizing values like integrity, respect, and servant leadership, he helps athletes develop not just as players, but as individuals. His mentorship continues to have a lasting impact on the culture of Roosevelt athletics.

At Great Hearts Roosevelt, athletic success is measured in the character and leadership developed through competition, not just wins. This year’s Champions of Character honorees have set a remarkable example for their peers, embodying the heart of what it means to be a true competitor and leader.

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