THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College men’s soccer continues to make history, claiming two of the three major Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) Division I postseason awards following the 2026 regular season.
Head coach Abe Tizaf was named Coach of the Year, while Gila Monster goalkeeper Bruno Vasconcelos earned Goalkeeper of the Year honors. The recognition follows a remarkable season in which Eastern Arizona earned its first national ranking and established itself among the region’s top programs.
Tizaf led the Gila Monsters to a 9-3-1 overall record and a 5-2-1 conference mark, finishing tied for second in the ACCAC standings. Under his leadership, Eastern Arizona climbed to No. 14 in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I national poll and secured the No. 3 seed in the NJCAA Region I Division I Men’s Soccer Playoffs.
“This recognition is a reflection of our players and the commitment they’ve made to this program,” Tizaf said. “From the beginning, we’ve focused on building a culture of hard work, discipline and accountability. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and grateful to be part of this team.”
Vasconcelos played a key role in the team’s success, anchoring one of the conference’s strongest defenses. He recorded two shutouts and allowed just six goals in 506 minutes of play, finishing with an .838 save percentage. His performance helped the Gila Monsters secure a postseason berth and earned him a place on the All-Region I first team.
Eastern Arizona’s postseason recognition extended beyond the two major awards, with six Gila Monsters named to the All-Region I first and second teams.
Joining Vasconcelos on the first team were forward Khi Caban and defender Jean Carlos. Defender Brian Demski, defender Mujab Ibrahim and forward Alain Websters earned second-team honors.
The team’s accomplishments are a source of pride for the broader Eastern Arizona College community.
“This is an exciting moment for Eastern Arizona College athletics,” EA President Todd Haynie said. “Coach Tizaf has built something special with this team, and it’s wonderful to see his leadership and our student-athletes recognized at this level. We’re incredibly proud of Abe, Bruno, and the entire soccer program for the way they’ve represented EA and the community.”
The postseason awards add to an already historic year for Eastern Arizona College men’s soccer. In conference play, the Gila Monsters allowed just five goals in eight games while scoring 23, finishing with a plus-18 goal differential.
For more information about Eastern Arizona College men’s soccer, visit www.eacmonsters.com.
About Eastern Arizona College
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EA is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates, EA is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EA is a vibrant community where students thrive and forge connections that last a lifetime. Live in on-campus housing, join over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EA apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose Eastern Arizona College as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
Eastern Arizona College’s new $2.3 million BRIDGE initiative aims to expand hands-on career preparation, strengthen connections with regional employers and help students prepare for meaningful careers in southeastern Arizona.
