Freshman David Beltran Scores Big, Claims Sedona Soccer’s Golden Boot

Freshman David Beltran has been awarded the Sedona Red Rock High School boys’ soccer team’s sixth annual Golden Boot award, announced during the SRRHS fall sports banquet on November 7.

This award, established by former head coach Sam Blom, recognizes the player with the highest combined goals and assists at the season’s end. Current head coach Gavin Shippen emphasized the importance of this tradition, which emphasizes assists alongside goals and aligns with his coaching philosophy on passing and ball control.

Beltran’s impressive season saw him score eight goals and provide five assists, narrowly edging out senior Alexis Flores Casas, who recorded nine goals and three assists.

Previous recipients of the Golden Boot include Clark Borjon in 2019, Luis Beltran in both 2020 and 2021, and Carlos Gonzalez in 2022 and 2023.

Reflecting on the season, Beltran highlighted a memorable moment during the team’s home game against Camp Verde High School on September 10. Despite trailing 3-0 at halftime, he scored three consecutive goals in the second half, helping secure a tie.

“It was an amazing hat trick for David, with some highlight reel goals for sure,” Shippen commented.

Blom remarked on Beltran’s achievements, noting the significance of a freshman winning the award while playing primarily in midfield. “He’s improved his skill level and has gotten taller since I coached him six months ago. He can change the game and will continue to get better each year,” Blom said.

Shippen recalled noticing Beltran’s talent while officiating middle school games last season. He mentioned that Beltran faced a pivotal decision: to play varsity soccer or join Major League Soccer’s development program, MLS Next.