Pima’s Pickett Crowned ACCAC/Region I Player of the Year; Five Soccer Stars Shine with All-ACCAC/Region I Honors

The Pima Community College men’s soccer team has earned notable recognition in the All-Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) and Region teams. Sophomore defender D’Andre Pickett, hailing from Tucson Magnet High School, received the distinction of ACCAC/Region I Division II Player of the Year. This marks his second consecutive year as a first team All-ACCAC/Region I selection. Pickett’s defensive prowess significantly contributed to the team’s nine shutout victories throughout the regular season, and they maintained two additional shutouts during the Region I Division II Playoffs. The Aztecs allowed just 11 goals this season. Over 18 games, Pickett recorded two goals and four assists.

Joining him in recognition is sophomore midfielder Brandon Sanchez from Canyon del Oro High School, who also made the first team All-ACCAC/Region I. After earning a spot on the second team last season, Sanchez has tallied nine goals and five assists in 17 games this year.

Sophomore Ismael Ruiz, another key player from Tucson Magnet High School, is recognized as a first team All-ACCAC/Region I selection. He has consistently performed throughout the season, starting in 15 of 19 games and leading the team with 15 goals and 11 assists, which ranks first in the ACCAC conference.

Additionally, sophomore Frank Castro from Prescott High School earned a spot on the second team All-ACCAC/Region I. Over 16 games, he contributed one goal, showcasing a solid performance that helped the Aztecs outscore opponents 84 to 11, including three goals without conceding in the Region I, Division II Playoffs.

Goalkeeper Jose Carlos Ortiz from Barca Academy also secured a position on the second team. He participated in 15 games, starting 13, and provided a robust defensive performance with 38 saves, allowing only nine goals, resulting in an impressive goals-against average of 0.66.

The Aztecs’ successful season culminated in their first Region I, Division II Championship since the 2020-21 season. They are set to compete in the NJCAA Division II National Tournament, scheduled for November 17-23 in Huntsville, Alabama.