The 2026 Eastmont Wildcats boys soccer team made school history by capturing the first state title in program history and the first boys team state championship in any sport since 1981. What began as a goal for the coaches and players became a reality as the seventh-seeded Eastmont Wildcats continued to win and ultimately finished on top of Washington’s 4A classification.

A major reason for the team’s success was its senior leadership. Coach Vidal Hurtado described the team as being “very senior-heavy,” with 12 seniors on the roster. He highlighted team captain Aaron Leon as not only a great athlete but also an outstanding human being and role model. Other key contributors included Jaden Espinoza, Giancarlo Cordero-Ramirez, Kodyn Flynn, and Angel Ortega, all of whom played significant roles in building the culture that carried the team throughout the season.

Coach Hurtado was adamant that the championship was a byproduct of the strong, competitive culture the team created every day. He hopes his players take away the lesson that hard work truly pays off. He also wants them to understand that this championship is just one of many achievements they will accomplish in life and that they can use this experience as motivation to pursue future goals.

This state championship was about much more than a trophy for Eastmont. It brought pride to the team, the school, and the entire East Wenatchee community. During the state tournament, the school hosted a watch party, elementary school students sent video messages cheering on the Wildcats, and an incredible number of supporters traveled three hours to watch the team compete. The excitement and pride could be felt throughout the school, making the championship run an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.