The Cesar Chavez Champions finished 7-3 last season before falling to Mountain View–Mesa in the first round of the 6A playoffs. In just his first year as head coach, Chandler Hovik helped guide the program back to the postseason—laying the foundation for what the Champions hope will be a deeper run this fall.
Hovik, entering his second season, said last year was just the beginning of what the program can achieve.
“Building off our first season this past year, we are looking for extreme toughness and physicality all season long. Our guys are hungry to show the state what they can do,” Hovik said.
One of those players is senior linebacker Tyes Graves, who led the team with 112 tackles and 4.5 sacks in 2024. He said his goal is not just to build on those numbers, but to chase history.
“The most important thing that I am expecting for myself is breaking the Cesar Chavez record with 160 tackles, and for the team to show grit on and off the field,” Graves said.
(Tyes Graves/ photo credit JZgallery)
The defense will also get a boost later in the season from transfer Elias Tiah, who came over from Betty Fairfax. Although he must sit out the first five games, Tiah is expected to be an impact player once eligible. At Fairfax, he posted 60 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two interceptions last year. He said his time away from the field has only fueled his drive.
“I learned that it takes toughness to play this game, and I have to prepare myself mentally and physically in the offseason,” Tiah said.
(Elias Tiah/Photo credit Jzgallery)
On the defensive line, senior end Amare Bell returns after recording a team-high 7.5 sacks and 54 tackles last season. His goals are clear: reach double-digit sacks and earn All-State recognition. He believes stronger team chemistry will help make that possible.
“Being more of a team and having better team chemistry,” Bell said. Bell draws inspired from Dallas Cowboy star Micah Parson, sa player he admires for his rare blend of speed and strength. He hopes to bring a similar similar style of play to the Champions defense this fall.
Hovik said while wins matter, the program also takes pride in representing its neighborhood.
“We take so much pride in our community in the south side of Phoenix. We want to make our community proud by the way we play on the field and our actions off the field as well,” Hovik said.
The Champions open their season at home against Desert Vista on August 29 at 7 p.m., aiming to showcase their toughness, chemistry, and pride in South Phoenix from the very first snap.