During the 2023 season, Highline men’s soccer team stood as a formidable force, proven by a successful season culminating in their second-place finish in the NWAC. As the NWAC men’s soccer All-Stars are unveiled, the dominance of Highline’s athletes becomes apparent, solidifying their presence in the prestigious lineup. 

Head Coach Steve Mohn’s strategy and leadership have propelled Highline to unprecedented heights. Named Co-Coach of the Year, Mohn played a pivotal role in guiding the team to a 16-1-3 season record, clinching the NWAC West region title and reaching the final championship.

This impressive achievement laid the foundation for Highline’s well-deserved representation in the All-Star selections. 

Leading the charge is Zane May, the MVP of the NWAC West Region. His remarkable record of 17 goals, 5 assists, and 39 points speaks volumes about his prowess on the field. May’s standout performances not only earned him individual recognition but also played a crucial role in Highline’s success throughout the season.

May is complemented by Leon Tezuka, forming a striking partnership. With 8 goals, 6 assists, and 22 points, Tezuka’s contributions showcase the team’s depth in offensive capabilities.

In the midfield, the dynamic duo of Dugsiye Ahmed and Mason Abdella adds a layer of finesse to Highline’s gameplay.

Ahmed’s exceptional tally of 20 goals, 5 assists, and 45 points, including an impressive 9 game-winning goals, which underscore his ability to shine in critical moments.

Abdella, a midfield maestro with 2 goals and 7 assists, further enhances Highline’s playmaking capabilities.

The defensive trio of Kody Carmel, Damoni McKenna Greenawalt, and Josh Job has been the bedrock of Highline’s solid defense. Their resilience and skill have thwarted opponents’ attacks, contributing significantly to the team’s season.

In goalkeeping, Mason Averill’s stats speak to his prowess between the posts. With a record of 6 wins, 4 shutouts, and a goals-against average of 0.62, Averill has proven to be a formidable last line of defense for Highline.

The talent at Highline College is further emphasized by the inclusion of Anthony Naranjo, Edgar Tamayo, and Thomas Ferew in the Honorable Mention category. Each player has made significant contributions, highlighting the team’s overall strength.

Here is the NWAC All-Star lineup: 

WEST REGION

CO-COACHES OF THE YEAR  

Steve Mohn, Highline &

Max Sampson, South Puget Sound

REGION MVP

Zane May, Highline

FORWARDS
Zane May, Highline
Leon Tezuka, Highline
Garik Shevchuk, Clark

MIDFIELDERS
Dugsiye Ahmed, Highline
Mason Abdella, Highline
Wilson Fresh, Clark
Bereket Mitiku, Clark
Atsushi Fujimoto, Tacoma

DEFENDERS
Kody Carmel, Highline
Damoni McKenna Greenawalt, Highline
Josh Job, Highline
Isaiah Bunda, Clark
Aidan Harvey, Tacoma

GOALKEEPERS
Mason Averill, Highline
Victor Rojas, Centralia

HONORABLE MENTION
Jairo Lima-Perez, Centralia
Tristin Evans, Centralia
Rogelio Santilla-Guzman, Centralia
Matthew Gordon, Clark
Randys Vadivia, Clark
Luis Ayona-Gonzalez, Clark
Anthony Naranjo, Highline
Edgar Tamayo, Highline
Thomas Ferew, Highline
Nathan Iniguez, Pierce
Gavin Forman, Pierce
Ethan Shoemaker, Pierce
Joscha Schulte-Holtey, South Puget Sound
Adrian Erdahl, South Puget Sound
Bryce Mizoguchi, South Puget Sound
Zach Browning, Tacoma
David Elliott, Tacoma
Jose Hernandez, Tacoma

As the NWAC Men’s Soccer All-Stars lineup is unveiled, Highline College’s representation stands as a testament to their outstanding season. The impressive combination of experienced coaching, individual brilliance, and cohesive teamwork has not only earned them a spot in the All-Star selections but positions Highline as a force to be reckoned with in the competitive world of men’s soccer and caps off a success and memorable 2023 season.