Playoff Week Highlights: History Made, Championships Contended

This past week was one for the books.

It was filled with firsts, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments that showed just how far our EVAC athletes have come—and how bright the future is. From inaugural playoff appearances to championship podiums, every event was packed with grit, growth, and God-honoring effort.

Earlier this week, we celebrated an incredible milestone as our Varsity Girls Sand Volleyball Team won the Team State Championship! A huge accomplishment that set the tone for the rest of our playoff week.

And the momentum didn’t stop there…

Varsity Girls Soccer – Top 8 in the State

Our Varsity Girls Soccer team entered the state playoffs as the #6 seed—one of the top eight teams! Their journey came to a close in a tough match against the #3 seed, Heritage Academy Maricopa. While the result didn’t go our way, their performance showed courage and class, competing with excellence all season long.

High School Golf – A Historic First

For the first time ever, EVAC High School Golf had a team and traveled to Prescott for the state playoff tournament. Most of our golfers had never played competitively before this season—and yet they finished the year playing full 18-hole tournament rounds at the state level. That’s progress worth celebrating and a foundation to build on for years to come.

Varsity Boys Baseball – Fighting Until the End

Our Varsity Boys Baseball team also reached the playoffs as a top-8 team, securing the #4 seed in the state. They played a tight, competitive game against Mission Heights that came down to the wire. Though it ended in a close loss, their fight, unity, and growth throughout the season were evident to all who watched.

Varsity Boys Volleyball – Final Four Finish

Making the playoffs was already an exciting step, but our Varsity Boys Volleyball team took it further by winning their first-round matchup and advancing to the Final Four! In a thrilling semi-final battle against Heritage Maricopa, they played their hearts out in front of a large group of fans. Their season ended in that intense match, but the memories and momentum they created will inspire future squads.

Varsity Girls Sand Volleyball Pairs – State Runner-Up

Lexie Kemeliotis and Abbi Roberts put on a show in the State Pairs Championship tournament. Lexie’s hustle and sets combined with Abbi’s explosive kill shots made them a dominant duo. They reached the championship match and gave the defending state champs all they could handle. After a close two-set finish, they secured an amazing State Runner-Up title. So proud of this pair’s effort, heart, and sportsmanship!

Junior High Golf – A One-Stroke Heartstopper

What a debut! In their first-ever season, EVAC’s Junior High Golf team finished second in the state, missing the title by just one stroke. Their team score of 167 was only edged out by Basis Mesa’s 166.

• Ike Baker led the way with a +1 (37), landing 3rd place individually.

• Andrew Whitlatch shot a strong 42 for 5th place overall.

• Highlight reel: Birdies from Ike (hole 1), Andrew and Dante (hole 4), and a 40-foot birdie from Sawyer DeZago (hole 8).

This group didn’t just compete—they amazed. Their finish combined with the heart displayed by the high school team is proof that something special is going on with EVAC golf.

Looking Ahead

The playoff energy isn’t done yet! Here’s what’s coming next:

• Jr. High Boys Basketball kicks off their state tournament this Tuesday at 5pm with a home game at Arizona Athletic Grounds (Court 1) vs. Kings Ridge Prep. There will be no charge to attend this playoff game, so let's fill the stands! Should they win they will move on to the next round with a game on Thursday at 5pm. A link to their state championship bracket can be found on the bottom of this page - https://azcaapreps.com/brackets/?pid=2605

• Track & Field State Championships take place next week at Glendale Community College. Many EVAC athletes not only qualified to compete in the state meet, but several are entering as serious contenders or favorites to win their events.

  • High School: May 8th at 5pm & 10th at 6pm

  • Jr. High: May 9th at 4pm & 10th at 8am
    

It’s not just about wins—though we had plenty to celebrate. It’s about first-time memories, character built through competition, and the joy of doing it all together as one EVAC family. Let’s keep encouraging our athletes, praising God for the journey, and showing up big as we cheer each other on.

For His Glory!