'Iolani's Devin Lee lives up to the pressure

Repeat Honolulu Star-Advertiser Boys Soccer Player of the Year led Raiders to second straight state title

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:05am

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'Iolani senior midfielder Devin Lee repeated as the Honolulu Star-Advertiser Boys Soccer Player of the Year after guiding the Raiders to their second consecutive HHSAA Division I State Championship. Lee, who is the first repeat Player of the Year since 2013, felt pressure as the returning POY and with his father as the team's head coach, but his passing, vision, and leadership were key factors in 'Iolani's undefeated 13-0-0 season.

Why it matters

Devin Lee's repeat Player of the Year honor is a rare accomplishment, with only one other player achieving that feat in the past decade. His leadership and skills were instrumental in 'Iolani's successful title defense, as the Raiders outscored opponents 54-8 on the season.

The details

Lee recorded 11 goals and 11 assists for 'Iolani, which finished the season 13-0-0. He was the designated taker of free kicks and corner kicks, using his consistent delivery to create scoring chances. Lee's father, Chris, was named Coach of the Year for the second straight season, matching the record for most Coach of the Year awards.

  • Devin Lee was named Honolulu Star-Advertiser Boys Soccer Player of the Year in 2025.
  • 'Iolani won the HHSAA Division I State Championship in 2025 and 2026.

The players

Devin Lee

A senior midfielder for 'Iolani High School who repeated as the Honolulu Star-Advertiser Boys Soccer Player of the Year after leading the Raiders to their second consecutive state championship.

Chris Lee

The head coach of the 'Iolani High School boys soccer team, who was named Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season and fifth time overall, matching the record for most Coach of the Year awards.

Sharlene Ginoza-Lee

Devin Lee's mother, who instilled the importance of leadership in him from an early age due to her own background in athletics as the daughter of former Waianae football coach Larry Ginoza.

Anthony Ancheta

A midfielder for 'Iolani High School who was named to the Stellar Eleven all-state team.

Austin Ancheta

A defender for 'Iolani High School who was named to the Stellar Eleven all-state team. He is the fraternal twin of Anthony Ancheta.

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What they’re saying

“I'm just grateful for everything I've accomplished and everybody that's helped me along the way.”

— Devin Lee, Senior Midfielder, 'Iolani High School

“There's definitely pressure of being Player of the Year, but I try not to think about it as much. I try to just do my part and do my role. Kind of let it all fall into place.”

— Devin Lee, Senior Midfielder, 'Iolani High School

“There's definitely some pressure playing for my dad, having to be good in his eyes. He doesn't put too much pressure on me. He just lets me play my game.”

— Devin Lee, Senior Midfielder, 'Iolani High School

“Devin just brought experience and leadership. On the field, he was willing to do whatever the team needed to get done to get the victory.”

— Chris Lee, Head Coach, 'Iolani High School

“My wife grew up around athletics. If I don't talk to (Devin) about it, she's talking to him about doing the right things, stepping up and being a leader.”

— Chris Lee, Head Coach, 'Iolani High School

What’s next

Devin Lee will continue his soccer career at Cal State Fullerton after graduating from 'Iolani High School.

The takeaway

Devin Lee's repeat Player of the Year honor and leadership in guiding 'Iolani to back-to-back state championships demonstrates the rare talent and poise of this high school soccer standout. His ability to thrive under the pressure of being the returning POY and playing for his father as head coach is a testament to his skills and character.