You could say Michael Diaz is all business. The Brophy College Prep two-sport star not only performs at a high level on the field, he also excels in the classroom. A true leader by example for first-year head coach Jason Jewell.
“He works really, really hard,” Jewell said to Sports360AZ.com of his star hybrid linebacker/safety. “He is getting recruited. Right now he will have the chance to play at the four-year level and from what I heard baseball may be an opportunity, as well.”
Much of Diaz’s success on the gridiron, as well as the diamond (he was all-region performer in both sports this year) can be attributed to his tireless efforts in the weight room. When he’s not working out at school, he’s likely taking those workouts to his Ahwatukee home.“During baseball season I would lift five-to-six times a week,” Diaz explained to Sports360AZ.com before a recent spring practice. “Me and my dad built a weight room at our house…I’ve put on about 10 pounds since February.”
6A interceptions:
1. Andre Johnson (TOLL) – 7
1. Ty Sifferman (BASHA) – 7
1. Quinton Powell (PINN) – 7
4. Haudarie Andrews (VV) – 6
4. Kyle Bryant (PINN) – 6
6. Michael Diaz (BCP) – 5
6. Michael Lopez (WV) – 5
6. Clayton Schmitz (PERRY) – 5— Gridiron Arizona (@gridironarizona) March 9, 2019
Diaz, who has offers from Ottawa and LaVerne, as well as interest from NAU, tallied 70 total tackles and five interceptions in 2018. He has a knack for being around the ball, much like the former NFL player he patterns his game after.
“Karlos Dansby,” Diaz said with a smile. “I grew up watching him play. He was an inspiration to me. I was always trying to model my game after him.”Now Jewell is hoping a host of younger Broncos take inspiration from Diaz’s talent and, more importantly, his team-first mentality.
“We’re going to fill in spots with some young guys,” Jewell said. “We have a very talented freshman class. Michael’s going to have to lead those guys and show them how to play.”
You be hard-pressed to find a better role model.
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Eric Sorenson
A Valley native, Eric has had a passion for the Arizona sports scene since an early age. He has covered some of the biggest events including Super Bowls, national championships and the NBA and MLB playoffs in his near 20 years in local media.