Great Hearts Roosevelt Soccer Brings Home the State Championship Title

The High School Coed Soccer Team at Great Hearts Roosevelt made school history by winning the State Championship with a commanding 5-2 victory over Verde Valley. It was the perfect finish to an unforgettable season.

The Aces wrapped up their season with a 14-1 record, scoring an incredible 151 goals while only allowing 12. That kind of dominance doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of hours of hard work, solid teamwork, and a group of athletes who gave it their all every time they stepped on the field.

A special shoutout goes to Shem Johnson and Jhaylah Scisson, who were named MVPs of the Championship Game for their outstanding performances.

What makes this win even more exciting is that this is only the second year of the academy’s soccer program. And believe it or not, there isn’t a single upperclassman on the roster.

“To win a State Championship in just our second year—with no juniors or seniors on the roster—is an incredible accomplishment,” said Athletic Director Carl Wunsch. “This team has embraced the daily grind, growing in skill, soccer IQ, and character. Coach Diaz-Anino and his staff have built a foundation rooted in our athletic pillars of attitude, preparation, and effort, and it showed in every match. Being named both state champions and CAA Champions of Character speaks volumes about who they are and how they compete. I couldn’t be prouder of this team and the leadership guiding them.”

The wins and goals are exciting, but this team also stands out for the way they carry themselves. It was recently announced that Coach Diaz-Anino was honored as the Coach Champion of Character and the entire varsity team received the Team Champion of Character award too, showing that their sportsmanship and integrity are just as strong as their game.

To top it all off, Israel Sori was named All-State Player of the Year, and Coach Diaz-Anino was recognized as the All-State Coach of the Year. “We have prepared for this moment with countless hours of training and have played against competitive teams. Now it’s time to shine on the field. Let’s go and play soccer,” said Coach Diaz-Anino. “Vamos Aces!”

This team has given Great Hearts Roosevelt something to be proud of. They’ve shown what it means to play with heart, with discipline, and with a love for the game. Congratulations to our state champs! You’re just getting started, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Do you have a story or know of one that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts? Please contact jmoore@greatheartsamerica.org.

Submit a student application to a Great Hearts Academy by visiting: https://www.greatheartsamerica.org/enroll/.