Athletics
At Arizona Athletic Grounds, NEWS Point Academy offers a comprehensive athletics program with access to patient, intentional instruction and coaching. Arizona Athletic Grounds provides our student-athletes with competitive opportunities and unmatched resources.
2026 – 2027 SCHOOL YEAR ANNUAL PRE-PARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION FORM
Coaching Staff
Coach Yeniel Bermudez
Soccer Coach
- Coach Bermudez is a globally experienced player, elite‑level coach, and proven developer of young athletes.
- A former Cuban National Team captain, Olympic Qualifier starter, and professional defender with the Charleston Battery and LA Blues, Coach Bermudez brings a world‑class playing background and a deep passion for shaping the next generation.
- He joins NEWS Point Academy with an impressive coaching résumé, including leadership roles across RSL AZ South, Alaska Rush, Legacy, and multiple high‑performance youth programs. His experience spans MLS Next, Elite Academy, high school varsity, and youth academies, all rooted in a commitment to discipline, technical excellence, and player growth.
- With a Bachelor’s in Physical Education & Coaching, a USSF B License, and years of developing top‑tier athletes, Coach Bermudez is ready to build a soccer culture that inspires, challenges, and elevates our student‑athletes.
Coach Tukia
Volleyball Coach
- Coach Tukia has extensive coaching experience at the college, club, and high school levels. She played college volleyball at Chaminade University in Hawai’i, where she was team captain and named MVP.
- Coach Tukia has a Master’s Degree in Education with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership. With over 10 years of experience in program operations, organizational leadership, and athlete development, Coach Tukia brings strong communication skills, patience, and a deep commitment to the growth of volleyball at NEWS Point Academy.
Coach Vailahi
Volleyball Coach
- Coach Vailahi has extensive coaching experience at the club and high school levels. She played college volleyball at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she was named back-to-back MVP.
- Coach Vailahi has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a specialization in Marketing and Social Media. Coach Vailahi’s volleyball club team started with one team and has grown to eight teams competing in the Club, Championship, and Open National USA Volleyball playing divisions.
- While she is proud of her many academic and athletic achievements she’s earned throughout her journey, Coach Vailahi feels her greatest accomplishment has been the opportunity to develop the next generation. To her, there is no achievement more meaningful than instilling strong character, cultivating leadership, and empowering young people with the values and confidence they need to succeed both on and off the court.
Coach Raff
Pickleball Coach
- Coach Raff is a pickleball coach, co-owner of Pickleball Plug, and coach at The Picklr. He is passionate about helping athletes of all ages to develop confidence, strong fundamentals, and a lifelong love for the game.
- Over the past two years, Coach Raff has coached more than 300 athletes through private instruction, clinics, camps, and youth development programs. He is known for his energetic coaching style, clear communication, and ability to simplify complex concepts into practical, game-ready skills.
- A U.S Navy Veteran and former student-athlete at the University of Tennessee, Coach Raff brings a strong foundation of leadership, perseverance and teamwork to every practice. He is excited to help grow the pickleball program at NEWS Point Academy while fostering sportsmanship, confidence, and a passion for lifelong learning through athletics.
Coach James Principe
Baseball Coach
- Passionate about growing the game and mentoring young athletes on and off the field. Proudly losing my voice every Sunday for the Buffalo Bills, every summer for the Chicago White Sox, and every football Saturday for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish! Fueled by early morning meetings, late-night practices, and an endless supply of energy drinks.
- 37 years in baseball. 20+ years coaching. One goal: develop players on the field and people off it. Former All-State catcher turned coach and manager. Queen Creek Little League Juniors Coach & All-Star Coach, 4+ consecutive years. From Aurora to Queen Creek. Let’s get to work.
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Soccer
Professional-grade turf, expert coaching.
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Basketball
Development-focused, competitive scheduling.
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Baseball
Full diamond access, quality coaching staff.
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Softball
Dedicated field, strong coaching support.
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Volleyball
Competitive play, early prospect camp access.
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More Coming
Expanding for 2026–27.
Elite Training
High Performance Program
The High Performance Program offers specialized training focused on both physical and mental performance, preparing students for national and international competition, with data-driven sports programming applicable across all athletic disciplines.
The Most Affordable Elite Athletics in Arizona
We have no tuition and sports fees capped. Arizona tax credits may cover the cost entirely.
$250
Max Annual Sports Fee