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Queen Creek’s Damien Sanchez signed his NLI with Arizona Christian University last Monday at the school. Andrew Luberda | Ledger
Southeast Valley Ledger
Queen Creek senior soccer player Damian Sanchez signed his National Letter of Intent with Arizona Christian University during a signing event at the school on Dec. 14.
Sanchez, an attacking midfielder for the defending state champions, chose ACU for a couple of reasons, including one that every mother hopes to hear from her college-bound child.
“I liked the small-school environment and it’s close to home,” Sanchez told theLedger. “I don’t think I’d be able to live without my mom.”
“It’s a great opportunity for me,” he added. “Plus my club teammates committed there too.”
Sanchez said he intends to study business administration and finance at ACU.
He credits the opportunity to play for Queen Creek, in addition to his club team, for helping him prepare for the next level. He acknowledged the Bulldogs state championship also helped in getting him recognition from college teams. He also thanked his coaches, parents, family, and teammates for assisting him along the way.
Queen Creek head coach Mauricio Ramirez was asked what about Sanchez’ game will translate at the next level.
“He is by far one of the best players on the team,” Ramirez responded. “He distributes the ball perfectly on the field, he’s a team member who helps all the players get better, and overall his character is just awesome. He’s a very coachable player, puts a lot of hard effort into his work, and the (ACU) coaching staff is going to love the way he plays.”
And the best part is his mom will be right by his side.
Andrew Luberda began writing for Copper Area News Publishers (CANP) in February 2013 after working 15 years in Healthcare Financial Management. Andy covers sports for 11 high schools. His stories are published in Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner and Superior Sun, in addition to the San Tan Valley Daily PRSS and CopperArea websites. Additionally, he has written human interest stories and business profiles. In May 2012, he earned an AAS in Sports Management at Central Arizona College before graduating with a BS in Communication from Arizona State University in 2014. He and his wife, Kelli, have three sons – AJ, Kyle, and Kade.
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