AWC Women’s Soccer sends three to NCAA programs, adds two more talents for fall
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Arizona Western College's Women's Soccer program continues to grow into a national pipeline, producing high-level talent and preparing players for success well beyond Yuma.
This spring, three standout sophomores signed to continue their careers at four-year universities. Forward Loegan Alia is headed to Southeastern Louisiana, while fellow forward Yui Suetsugu is taking her game to South Florida. Defender Jezmin Castellanos will be suiting up for West Texas A&M.
"These three girls pretty much put us as close as we got into winning a national title," said AWC head coach Victor Verdugo. "They set the expectation. Now they have these great opportunities, what they do next could open the door for the next girl watching them."
And those next girls may already be here.
Two high school seniors have committed to join the Matadors this fall. One of them is Valeria Valverde, a Desert Vista standout who says AWC's reputation and her first-hand experience training with the team made it an easy choice.
"I've heard great things about AWC. It's really a JUCO powerhouse, not just in soccer. But being here and training with them, it's totally different. You can see why they succeed," she said.
Ariana Peraza, a midfielder from Central High School in El Centro, also chose to stay close to home and take her shot with the Matadors: "Victor kept talking to me, and just training with the girls, it opened my eyes. They're amazing. It feels good to stay close to family and still be a part of something big."
As the program looks toward the fall, the focus remains on development and on honoring the legacy of those moving on. For the sophomores, the emotions are still fresh.
"I'm proud of everyone," said Alia. "We worked hard, and even with language barriers, we figured it out. Yuma might be small, but there are so many opportunities here, especially for soccer."
Suetsugu, who transferred in from Memphis, called her time at AWC "life-changing."
"Here, I got opportunities that changed everything. Now I'm going to South Florida, and I'm so thankful," Suetsugu expressed.
For Castellanos, the moment is deeply personal: "AWC changed my life. It's not easy to leave your country and give your best in a new one, but I'm proud to represent Guatemala and to grow here."
Verdugo says the team's future is in good hands: "These new girls, they're not just good players...they have the right mindset. That's what it takes. You're stepping into the shoes of greatness."
