Colin McAdams is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Cesar Chavez High School for AZPreps365.com.

 

Despite starting the season with seven losses in their first eight matches, the Cesar Chavez Champions bounced back when it came time to battle sectional opponents. Ending the season 10-14, the Champions won nine of their last 15 games.

Head coach Miguel Marrero credits mid-season lineup changes  for his team's dramatic turnaround.

“You know, I think one of the biggest forces that helped us start playing better was moving around our position players to where they play best,” Marrero said. “We moved our seniors to where they knew they could play best and brought in some girls from our junior varsity team to try and bring some energy to our team.”

The most surprising development was the addition of sophomore Keyara “Ke-Ke” Scott-Johnson. She quickly moved up into the varsity lineup after performing exceptionally well on the JV team.

Junior varsity coach Eureka Hall could see the athleticism and ability immediately.

“Her ability right as she entered our gym was on full display,” Hall said. "It amazed people, how she would elevate over the net and the power of her hits. We knew that we had a special player.”

Scott-Johnson was not even on the team last year, when she focused on soccer and track. As the team continued to struggle early in the season and she continued to show her natural athleticism, Marrero moved her up to varsity.

“I mean, she just brought new energy, electricity for all the girls," Marrero said. "They loved seeing her succeed right as she was moved into the lineup. Just to watch her jump and block, she would always bring something to the matches that we did not have before. She performed so well, the team even voted her MVP even with her playing in only the second half of the season.”

While the season started with record of 1-9, senior captains Genesis Rivera and Madison Branum helped keep the team focused and built chemistry to help the team keep improving.

“Genesis and Madison stepped up well as the captains of the team," Marrero said. "They were our bread and butter this season. They were a driving force in keeping our girls confident even with us losing a lot to start the season. They stayed positive and led the girls like coaches would. Teaching the newer girls about the game and right positioning.”

While the team struggled and ended the season with a sub .500 record, the Champions coaches say that this is one of the best coached group of girls they've had. Assistant coach DeeJae Jauregui could not have been happier with how the season ended.

“Of all the seasons I have watched and been a part of, this one has been one of the funniest years we have had,” Jauregui said. “It was not about the wins and losses. These girls enjoyed their time together. They accepted what they were given and played exceptionally well.”

With eight seniors graduating, the outlook for next season is already in Marrero's mind.

“A lot of schools would be worried with that much base of your team leaving,” Marrero said. “Our freshman team was playing last year like a varsity team. Most of the girls who will be joining the roster next year have been playing on the same volleyball team. We even ended with three or four freshmen already on the roster.”