Alex Chavez, Española Valley Football
The sophomore was perhaps the strongest part of the Sundevils’ first win since 2019, guiding the rushing game even as it rotated between backs. Chavez ran for 51 yards on the first two plays of the game and scored on the first drive. He scored a second touchdown run later in the game, and finished with 57 yards on just five carries, adding in an 11-yard reception. He also grabbed an interception off McCurdy in the end zone, preserving the shutout victory.
Emma Maestas, Escalante Volleyball
Escalante’s senior setter started the year strong, even with a new set of front-row hitters. Even after a slow start, Maestas helped the hitters dominate in a three-set sweep of Pecos to move to 2-1 on the season and secure a top-five ranking in the coaches’ poll. Maestas finished the match with 15 assists, three aces and five kills as she led the Lady Lobos to an easy victory.
Anica Urioste, Pojoaque Volleyball
Urioste led the Elkettes to a season-opening win over Robertson, handing the top-ranked Cardinals their first loss since November 2019. In that match, the senior recorded 14 kills, nine digs and two aces. Urioste and the team’s seniors led Pojoaque to a win in the silver bracket at the Moriarty tournament, knocking off Tularosa, Clovis and Sandia Prep as they reached 4-0 on the season.
Leah Vigil, Española Valley Volleyball
After a rocky first set, the Sundevil freshman setter found her groove to lead Española Valley to a come-from-behind victory over Belen and snap a 14-match losing streak dating back to last season. Vigil showed poise and determination while tallying 31 assists, five kills and five aces – the majority of which came in sets three, four and five which the Sundevils needed to and did win after falling behind 2-0, guiding a wide swath of front-row hitters to success.