Arizona Christian Homeschool Athletic Association Celebrates Two Decades of Success

By Shanxi Omoniyi (The Lion) |

Blake Griffin and Allonzo Trier share a unique link with Allison Miller, a junior at The Master’s University in Santa Clarita, California. All three were homeschooled athletes who have competed in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Championships (NCHBC), as reported by Arizona State University’s Cronkite News.

The East Valley Athletes for Christ (EVAC) emerged in 2003 with a single boys’ high school basketball team. Initially, the concept of homeschooling in competitive sports was foreign. Today, EVAC boasts 291 students spread across 37 teams, reflecting a rapid growth in interest and participation, according to the article.

“EVAC offers greater and more customized athletic experiences because it’s parent-led,” said Grant Botma, communications director for EVAC. “We support parents who have ideas that align with our mission, which enhances the overall experience for our athletes.”

Recent years have seen an influx of families enrolling from distant areas including Anthem, Maricopa, and the West Valley. With nearly 300 students, EVAC is approaching its capacity, and the need for volunteers has become crucial for potential expansion.

Miller, who secured back-to-back state titles under the Canyon Athletic Association, attributes her homeschool experience to her success at the NCHBC. “Playing basketball varies significantly across the country. The different atmosphere at that tournament brought a new level of competitiveness to EVAC,” she noted.

The organization’s success emphasizes flexibility and a community-focused approach. Tracy Miller, Allison’s mother and an EVAC administrative assistant, explained the importance of relationships within the community. “Staying involved in a less competitive environment allowed us to foster those connections,” she said, underlining the dual focus of community and competition that drives EVAC’s mission.

Allison continues to thrive in college basketball, even encouraging Fonda Wilson, coach of The Master’s University women’s team, to scout other homeschool athletes. “Miller has been educating me about homeschool prospects. My aim is to seek those athletes who align with our values,” Wilson stated.

Originally published by The Lion.

Shanxi Omoniyi is a staff writer for The Lion and also the Online Content Director at Midwest Parent Educators, a nonprofit serving thousands of homeschool families across multiple states.