A championship remembered
The final whistle at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman, Utah, sparked a wave of relief and pride as East High School’s boys soccer squad clinched the 4A state championship, ending a 20‑year title drought that had lingered since the early 2000s.
The match unfolded with early drama when Murray struck first, only to see Alejandro Preciado‑Jaramillo equalize before halftime. The game’s turning point arrived four minutes into the second half, when Teo Humasti rose to head the decisive goal, sending the crowd into celebration.
Coach Javier Viana, who took the helm this season, praised his team’s disciplined execution of a ball‑retention strategy that emphasized creating space and controlling tempo. ‘We stuck to the plan and trusted each other,’ he said, noting that the victory was as much about mindset as skill.
The defensive unit, anchored by a resilient back line, held firm after the lead was taken, weathering Murray’s late push to preserve the 2‑1 margin. The win was not just a trophy but a tribute to former coach Mike Kernodle, whose legacy continues to shape the program’s culture.
Beyond the scoreboard, the triumph resonated with players who had watched the team fall short in previous playoff runs. Jett Rimando’s late substitution injected fresh energy into midfield possession, while teammates Axel Lopez and Colton Demann contributed to the collective effort that turned the tide.
East High School now looks ahead, carrying the momentum from a season that reaffirmed its status as a contender in the 5A ranks just two years prior. The championship marks a new chapter for the program and a lasting homage to the coach who inspired generations.