Dual Triumphs

Shadow Mountain’s Gleason and Pinnacle’s Soukup shine.

Photos courtesy of PVSchools have earned her a spot at the University of Missouri, where she will join as a Mizzou Tiger next fall, ready to make a splash in collegiate swimming.

Paradise Valley Unified School District (PVSchools) is celebrating the exceptional achievements of two standout students from its high schools, who have made significant strides in their respective sports.

Gleason

Senior Danielle Gleason from Shadow Mountain High School has made waves in the world of high school swimming. Gleason clinched the Division III State Championship title in both the 500-yard and 200-yard freestyle competitions, an extraordinary feat that underscores her talent and unwavering commitment to swimming.

Her achievements didn’t stop there. Gleason was also named the Women’s Division III Swimmer of the Year by the AZ Interscholastic Swimming and Diving Coaches Association, a testament to her prowess in the pool. Remarkably, this year’s state championship marks her consecutive win in these categories, highlighting her consistent excellence.

Gleason’s extraordinary performances have been recognized throughout the state. She clocked the fastest swim times across all three high school divisions in Arizona, firmly establishing her as a top-tier swimmer. Her skills

Soukup

Over at Pinnacle High School, another PVSchools student is turning heads in the realm of high school football. Alan Soukup, a standout football player, has been selected to play in the prestigious Under Armour All-American Game. The event, scheduled for January 3 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, showcases the nation’s top high school football talents.

Soukup’s selection for this esteemed game is a clear indicator of his extraordinary abilities on the football field. His dedication and outstanding performance have not gone unnoticed, as he’s currently ranked as the nation’s number one long-snapper by Kohl’s Kicking. Last month, a ceremony at Pinnacle High School celebrated his achievements and his journey to this significant milestone.

These two athletes from Shadow Mountain and Pinnacle High Schools exemplify the spirit of dedication, skill, and perseverance. Gleason and Soukup are not just champions in their respective sports; they are inspirations for their peers, proving that hard work and commitment truly pay off.

Horizon High School Claims Third Consecutive 5A Conference Girls Volleyball Championship

Photo courtesy of Autumn Issitt

Paradise Valley Unified School District’s (PVShools) Horizon

High School Girls Volleyball team etched their names in the annals of Arizona high school sports history by clinching their third consecutive 5A Conference Championship last month. Under the leadership of first-year coach McKenna Skaggs, the Huskies secured a remarkable victory, marking a significant milestone for both the team and their passionate fanbase.

This championship win was particularly special as it marked Skaggs’ maiden state championship victory in her inaugural year at the helm. The Huskies showcased unwavering determination throughout the nailbiting final, clinching the title in a thrilling fifth set against the Millennium Tigers. Notably, this marked the third consecutive year that the Huskies found themselves pitted against the Tigers in the championship showdown.

The victory is a momentous occasion for both the team and the school, highlighting several noteworthy accomplishments. Skaggs, although a first-time championship-winning coach, boasts an impressive background as a former player for Horizon High School. She was an integral part of the 2009 team that secured the school’s first of six championships, and her experience and leadership undoubtedly played a pivotal role in guiding the current team to victory this season.

Throughout the season, the Huskies exhibited substantial growth, both individually and as a cohesive unit. They overcame challenges, honed their skills through rigorous practice sessions, and developed into a formidable force on the volleyball court. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering perseverance bore fruit on the grand stage during the state championship game.

The championship triumph is a testament to the exceptional teamwork and camaraderie displayed by the players throughout the season. Each member of the team played a vital role in securing this historic win.

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