What we learned in Arizona high school girls soccer this week

The Arizona high school girls’ soccer playoffs are underway, encompassing multiple divisions and setting the stage for compelling championship matchups. The first two rounds of the Open Division, and the opening round for 3A and 2A tournaments, have already concluded, reshaping the competitive landscape.

Can Anybody Stop Xavier?

Phoenix Xavier Prep, the five-time defending state champion, remains the team to beat in the Open Division. The Gators are aiming for a historic sixth consecutive title, a feat only matched by Chandler Seton Catholic in 3A. Xavier Prep has demonstrated its dominance, routing Peoria Sunrise Mountain and Waddell Canyon View 7-0 in the first two rounds.

Did You Know? Xavier Prep is seeking to become only the second school in Arizona history to win six consecutive girls’ soccer titles.

Chandler Hamilton and Queen Creek Casteel are considered strong contenders to challenge Xavier Prep. Hamilton, the No. 1 seed, secured victories over Sahuarita Walden Grove (4-0) and Chandler Arizona College Prep (4-0). Casteel, seeded No. 2, defeated Tucson Catalina Foothills (4-0) and Anthem Boulder Creek (4-0). Both teams have previously come close to unseating Xavier, with Casteel losing in overtime last season and Hamilton falling 5-4 on penalty kicks in 2024.

Scottsdale Chaparral, Chandler Basha, and Phoenix Desert Vista also remain in contention. Chaparral boasts eight titles under coach Robyn Carlson, while Basha has seen programme growth under coach Ryan Watrous. Desert Vista is the defending 6A state champion.

Perry Upset

An upset occurred in the Open Division as No. 8 Gilbert Perry lost 2-0 to No. 9 Gilbert Highland. This result is considered unusual for Perry, a consistent playoff contender that reached the Open semifinals in 2025 and won 6A championships in 2023 and 2022.

Dust Settles on Big School Tourney

The completion of the Open Division’s first two rounds has finalized the brackets for the 6A, 5A, and 4A tournaments. Perry, following its loss, will now compete in the 6A tournament as the No. 2 seed, alongside top-seeded Phoenix Pinnacle. In 5A, Gilbert Campo Verde is the top seed, while Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep, the 2024 state champion, is a team to watch. Queen Creek Crismon, despite a Round 1 loss in the Open, is favored to contend for the 4A title, led by senior forward Sydney Droen, who has 144 goals and 112 assists.

Expert Insight: The realignment of teams from the Open Division into the 6A, 5A, and 4A brackets introduces new dynamics and potential for upsets as these teams adjust to their respective conference competitions.

In 3A, Northwest Christian and Gilbert Christian appear poised for a championship showdown. Northwest Christian won its Round 1 game 14-0 against San Tan Foothills, while Gilbert Christian defeated ALA Mesa North 16-0. In 2A, the higher seeds – Phoenix Country Day School and Glendale Prep Academy – advanced to the next round.

Frequently Asked Questions

What divisions are currently holding playoffs?

The Open, 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, and 2A divisions are all currently holding playoffs.

Which team is the favourite in the Open Division?

Phoenix Xavier Prep is the five-time defending state champion and is considered the favourite in the Open Division.

What happened in the 6A tournament after Perry’s loss?

Perry falls back into 6A and immediately slots in as one of the favorites to win the 6A tournament as the No. 2 seed. Phoenix Pinnacle, No. 1, is also in the mix.

As the Arizona high school girls’ soccer playoffs progress, will any team be able to dethrone the dominant Xavier Prep, or will they continue their championship reign?