Yuma County soccer teams begin playoff push across multiple divisions

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - The postseason is officially underway for Yuma County soccer, with several local teams set to open playoff action this week across multiple divisions.

In 3A boys, No. 6 Yuma Catholic opens the playoffs at home Wednesday night, hosting Tonopah Valley at 6 p.m. at Ricky Gwynn Stadium.

The Shamrocks are led by freshman striker Cade Garcia, who has 39 goals on the season as Yuma Catholic looks to return to the state championship match.

On the girls' side, No. 6 Yuma Catholic enters the postseason on a hot streak. After a slow start to the season, the Shamrocks have won nine straight matches.

Sophomore Gillian Guiverra leads the attack with 22 goals as YC hosts No. 11 Safford Wednesday at 6 p.m.

In the Open Division, No. 15 Kofa hosts No. 18 Perry in a rematch of last year's 6A semifinal. Senior forward Leonel Rodriguez has had a historic season, breaking Kofa's single-season scoring record with 41 goals. Kickoff is set for Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Irv Pallack Field.

Also in the Open Division, No. 20 San Luis hits the road Wednesday to face No. 13 Cienega at 6 p.m. The Sidewinders bring a veteran-heavy roster into the postseason, highlighted by 17 seniors and plenty of playoff experience.

In 6A girls action, No. 18 Cibola hosts Cesar Chavez Thursday at 6 p.m. in a play-in matchup. Sophomore Leyla Lugo leads the Raiders with 41 goals this season, the fifth-most in the state.

Rounding out local playoff action, No. 27 Gila Ridge travels to Phoenix on Thursday to face Trevor G. Browne at 6 p.m. The Hawks are led by sophomore winger Jayna Faber.

With multiple home matches and star power across divisions, the road to a state title begins this week for Yuma County soccer.