We believe there’s something more important than just winning or losing a tournament. We believe that the team, school, and fans who support their athletes with dignity and class are the true champions. That’s why we’ve proudly sponsored the WIAA/Rural Mutual Insurance Sportsmanship Award for over 55 years.
We want to congratulate Cedar Grove-Belgium High School on being this year’s recipient of the Girls’ Soccer Sportsmanship Award.
We talked with Head Coach Zachary Garza and asked him what this award meant to him as a coach, to the team, and the community, along with how they teach their athletes about sportsmanship.
“Nothing makes me prouder than to see our program win this award for the second time in three seasons. We work to be the strongest soccer team that we can be year after year, but nothing brings me greater joy than to be recognized for our character. We strive to be the best versions of ourselves every day in Cedar Grove-Belgium and this award goes a long way in continuing to fuel that passion.
We consistently speak about soccer being more than just a game. We do not just want to step on to a field to play a simple game. It is always our goal to improve ourselves as people first and soccer players second. We want to have a lasting impact on those around us while forming priceless bonds and memories. We are no strangers to adversity, and our players know to expect intense obstacles every season. There will be failures, mistakes, and setbacks. It is how we respond to these types of situations that will define who we are as people. Sportsmanship is important because it reminds us of how we can make a difference and improve our character through these processes. We must always respect those around us for who they are as people and understand that we all share the same battlefield.”
Coach Garza said, “The most satisfying part of coaching is watching a plan come together. We strive to improve and reach new heights day after day, week after week, and so on. To watch it all unfold at the end of the season is something truly special. This is especially true when we find ourselves competing at the highest level.”
This was Coach Garza’s third season as head coach at Cedar Grove-Belgium High School and says it’s been an absolutely phenomenal ride thus far. Congratulations again on a great season and winning the WIAA/Rural Mutual Sportsmanship Award! This is a great achievement for the Cedar-Grove Belgium community.
