East High School clinches 4A state soccer championship
East High School’s boys soccer team ended a two‑decade title drought with a 2‑1 victory over top‑seeded Murray in the 4A state championship match at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman, Utah.
The win was more than a scoreboard triumph; it added a fourth star to the Rockets’ crest, a tribute to the late coach Mike Kernodle, whose legacy continues to shape the program.
Teo Humasti emerged as the hero, heading in the decisive goal just four minutes into the second half, while Alejandro Preciado‑Jaramillo had earlier leveled the match for East.
Coach Javier Viana praised his squad’s discipline, noting that the team stuck to a game plan centered on ball retention and creating space, a strategy that ultimately broke down Murray’s defense.
Former coach Rudy Schenk, who succeeded Kernodle after his passing, addressed the team before kickoff, offering a poignant reminder of the program’s history.
Murray struck first, but East’s defense held firm through a stressful second half, preserving the lead and sealing a victory that felt like redemption for the community.
Though East had been a contender in 5A the past two seasons, each campaign ended earlier than hoped; this time, the Rockets turned promise into a championship.