It is a historic spring for the Charter School of Educational Excellence (CSEE) as both the boys’ baseball and girls’ softball teams captured 2026 City Schools Sports Association (CSSA) Championship titles.
In two high-stakes showdowns against a familiar rival, the CSEE Owls proved that their dedication on the field is matched only by their commitment in the classroom.
The championship wave began earlier this spring when the girls’ softball team capped off a dominant season. Facing off against the AECI 2 Panthers, the Owls pulled off a spectacular 17-2 win, their sixth consecutive league championship.
The high-intensity matchup highlighted the top-tier talent in the league, but it was CSEE’s Karina Diaz who stole the show. Diaz’s standout performance earned her the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors, cementing the softball team’s status as the 2026 CSSA High School Softball Champions.
Not to be outdone, the boys’ baseball team captured the 2026 CSSA Boys AA Baseball Championship.
In a May 29 game, the Owls once again found themselves standing across the diamond from the AECI 2 Panthers. The Owls were down by seven runs in the last inning, yet they rallied in the last inning with eight runs for a dramatic comeback win of 13-12.
These athletic triumphs reflect the students’ academic focus. The school’s rigorous commitment to education acts as the foundation, fueling the hard work, discipline, and drive required to win at the highest level.
“I am proud of our young men and women for their monumental achievements this season,” said Athletic Director Michael DeSimone. “Winning a championship requires immense sacrifice, but what makes these teams truly special is their dedication to success both on the field and in the classroom. At CSEE, our commitment to academic excellence fuels our students’ drive.”
The dual championships mark a defining moment for the CSEE Athletics program, establishing the school as a premier destination for competitive high school sports and academic achievement in Yonkers.
