Photos courtesy of Cody Kunigel
Ridgeline Academy’s 2023 Varsity Boys’ Basketball team captured its first State Championship in school history on Tues., Feb. 21, at Arizona State University’s Desert Financial Arena. The Ridgeline Eagles defeated Southwest Leadership Academy by the score of 77-38 in the State Championship game. Senior Guard, #0 Paul Haley, was awarded the Most Valuable Player with 21 points.
The Ridgeline Eagles Boys’ Basketball program is led by Coach Cody Kunigel. Assistant Coaches Kyle Bristow and Dave Melancon rounded out the coaching staff. The team finished its season with an overall record of 23-1. Ridgeline Academy is part of the Canyon Athletic Association’s (CAA) Mountain Region, also bringing home the regional title with a 10-0 record.
“This team and season was special. Being around the game for a long time, I know firsthand that you cannot take a season like this for granted. They do not come around that often!” says Coach Kunigel. “I want to thank everyone that played a part in making this season successful, from parents, players, school staff, and our community, it truly does take a village.”
To date, four players and the head coach have been recognized with regional awards and are up for all-state honors:
#4
Kaylon Norman
All-Region 1st team and Player of the Year
#14
Enrico Roque
All-Region 1st team
#3
Mitch Van Dijk
All-Region Honorable Mention and #1 in State of AZ (all classes) in Steals 6.5 steals per game
#0
Paul Haley
All-Region Honorable Mention
Coach Cody Kunigel
CAA Coach of the Year
