Celebrating the 2026 All-West Tennessee Boys Soccer Honorees
The Jackson Sun on Tuesday unveiled its 2026 All-West Tennessee boys soccer squads, recognizing the region’s top performers and the coaches who guided them. The selections reflect a vibrant season across West Tennessee, showcasing both emerging talent and seasoned leaders who will shape the next generation of high school soccer.
Player of the Year: Braulio Marquez
Braulio Marquez of Crockett County was crowned the 2026 All-West Tennessee Boys Soccer Player of the Year after a season that saw him net four goals and supply 12 assists, a combination that helped the Cavaliers clinch the District 13-AA championship with a 13‑3‑1 record. His impact was felt throughout the lineup, driving the team’s attacking rhythm and delivering crucial moments in tight matches.
Richard Addo from South Gibson finished with 14 goals and seven assists despite missing seven matches for basketball, while Christopher Cerda of Crockett County added 15 goals, including a strike in the 2‑1 Class AA state quarterfinal loss to Elizabethton. Both players exemplified resilience and skill under pressure.
Deuce Davenport of USJ was a prolific scorer with 21 goals and 12 assists, leading the Bruins to 11 victories and underscoring his role as a offensive catalyst. Alijha Madwah of Madison Magnet earned Region 7‑A Most Valuable Player honors with 16 goals and nine assists, and Chris Sanchez of Jackson Central‑Merry was named District 14‑A MVP with 17 goals and five assists.
Dilvay Santos from Madison Magnet contributed 12 goals and nine assists, earning all‑district recognition, while Rebel Blackwell of South Gibson was selected defensive MVP of District 13‑AA with five goals and six assists. Midfielder Drew English of USJ split his time between midfield duties and still managed five goals and five assists.
Defensive Standouts and Goalkeeping Excellence
Eduardo Zuniga of Jackson North Side helped the Indians post ten shutouts, securing the District 12‑AA defender of the year award. In goal, Kooper McFarland of South Gibson was named Goalie of the Year in District 13‑AA, posting an 87% save rate while conceding only 19 goals.
Coach of the Year: Ethan Ellis
Coach Ethan Ellis of South Gibson was honored as Coach of the Year after steering his side to a 17‑4‑2 record and a berth in the state tournament semifinals. His strategic acumen and ability to develop talent were cited as key factors in the team’s sustained success throughout the season.
The full list of honorees also includes teams from Crockett County, South Gibson, USJ, Madison Magnet, Jackson Central‑Merry, Jackson North Side, South Fulton, Westview, Huntingdon, Obion County, Milan, and Signal Mountain, each represented by players who earned all‑district or all‑region accolades.