By BYRON BEERS

Diego Sanchez has been an important part to Jenks’ success on the soccer field.

The Trojans won four of their first five outings in the month of March, notching overtime wins against Bixby and Broken Arrow and shutout victories against Owasso and Choctaw.

Sanchez, who has played soccer since he was five years old, was a Jenks Offensive Player of the Year in 2022 and was also selected to the 6A-3 All-District team after recording eight goals as a junior. He helped lead Jenks to the Class 6A State semifinals.

“Diego plays with character on the field by being fair and astute to his team and opponents,” Jenks head coach Eric Marshall said.

Sanchez has hopes of continuing his soccer career beyond high school, but wants to lead the Trojans to a title first. He also feels improvements are always needed for himself and his teammates.

“My goal this year is to finish my high school career by winning the state championship and then play in college,” Sanchez said. “For both my team and my individual performances it is good but I can be better.”

Sanchez, who enjoys doing one-on-ones and shooting drills, had a memorable goal against rival Union last season that he will never forget.

“Scoring against Union last season from almost halfway and making the state semifinals are memories I won’t forget,” Sanchez said.

Sanchez looks up to Lionel Messi and says his strengths are scoring and passing. He enjoys facing off against Broken Arrow and Jenks.

“I grew up watching [Messi] do things that other players can’t do, and his inspiration to play and win games motivates me to get better every day,” Sanchez said. “My strengths are my passing and shooting. I have improved my relationship with my teammates the most.”

Sanchez, who hopes to major in Sports Management following high school, enjoys spending time with family and friends during his free time. He loves being able to represent Jenks and playing soccer with his life-long friends.