BREAKING NEWS: Soquel High’s standout goalie, Rafael Suarez-Abraham, has just been named the 2025 SCCAL MVP for boys water polo, a rare honor for a goalkeeper in the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League. This significant recognition follows a remarkable season where the junior helped propel the Knights to a league title and a spot in the prestigious CCS Open Division playoffs.
Suarez-Abraham, standing at an impressive 6-foot-4, has been a game-changer, averaging 8.5 saves per match. Over the course of 28 games, he tallied 238 saves and maintained an 8.5 goals-against average, showcasing his skills against some of the toughest teams in the Greater Bay Area.
Knights coach Ryan Chapatte, also recognized as Coach of the Year, praised Suarez-Abraham’s exceptional talent. “He strikes fear into other coaches and players,” Chapatte remarked. “He blocks shots he’s supposed to and a lot he shouldn’t.” His performance in critical matches, particularly against Sacred Heart Prep and Campolindo, sealed his status as a vital player for his team.
The Knights finished the season with a strong record of 23-6 overall and 4-0 in league play, leading them to the semifinals of the CCS Open Division and qualifying for the CIF Division I NorCal Regional playoffs. Chapatte highlighted the importance of Suarez-Abraham’s contributions during high-stakes games, noting his ability to stop penalty shots and make crucial saves.
Alongside Suarez-Abraham, the Knights celebrated other top players, including his brother, Gabe Suarez-Abraham, who was also named to the All-SCCAL first team. The Knights’ senior utility player, Stryder Stelck, led the team in scoring with 81 goals, alongside his impressive 27 assists and 28 steals.
The All-SCCAL first team also featured notable players from Santa Cruz, including senior attacker Hayden Johnson, who led his team with 95 goals. Johnson’s performance, along with his teammates Nikolaus Kay and junior goalie Laird Bowser, helped the Cardinals secure second place in the SCCAL and a spot in the CCS Open Division playoffs.
In addition to the first team honors, Aptos junior Peter Friedley and Harbor senior Kai Henrikson rounded out the first team selections, showcasing the depth of talent across the league.
As the 2025 SCCAL MVP, Rafael Suarez-Abraham’s achievements not only highlight his individual skill but also inspire young athletes in the community. The recognition of a goalie as MVP serves as a testament to the vital role that defensive players play in team success.
Fans and supporters are eager to see how Suarez-Abraham and the Knights will perform in the upcoming regional playoffs, with all eyes on this standout talent. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Knights aim for further glory on the water polo stage.
