Cascio, Jason
Jason Cascio was born in Mesa, Arizona and grew up in Gilbert. He began playing soccer at the age of eight, joining Club soccer teams a few years later. Upon entering Hamilton High School in 2000, Cascio earned a spot as Center Middle on the Varsity Soccer team. A two time All-State soccer player, he also kicked for the 2003 State Champion Hamilton football team. As a midfielder, he scored 24 goals in his senior season, and twice earned Fiesta Region Player of the Year, and First-Team All-Region awards. His hard work earned him a soccer/academic scholarship to Seattle University in 2004.
As a freshman Cascio joined the starting lineup of Seattle University’s men’s soccer team as Left Defender. The team successfully utilized Cascio as a marking back against the opposition’s top offensive player. As a freshman he helped the Redhawks win the Division II NCAA soccer championship. In his junior year he earned a spot on the 2005 GNAC (Great Northwest Athletic Conference) Men’s Soccer Academic Team. As a Forward, he assisted the Redhawk offense with important assists and goals that year and led the league in scoring. The following year, Cascio received the GNAC Player of the Year award, with 16 goals and 33 points. He was also named both NCSAA and Daktronics First Team All-Region. He also earned First Team All Academic for the conference, and Second Team All-American. In 2007, Jason was named First Team All Conference and All Region, Second Team All American. In the GNAC Jason currently ranks in the top ten for Career Leaders in top points scored, goals, and shots. Jason graduated from Seattle University in 2008 with a Bachelor’s degree.
In 2008, Cascio signed with the Seattle Sounders as a Forward and played 24 USL-1 games. The team folded and in the following years Cascio played for the Kitsap Pumas as Center Middle. He finished his professional career in 2010. He now lives in Arizona and plays soccer for recreation. He currently works as a fitness trainer and runs a small business in Gilbert.
Cascio was inducted into the Chandler Sports Hall of Fame on February 8, 2014.
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Jason's bio from Seattle University
Summary: Jason graduated from Hamilton High in 2004. Played soccer and football there. Was a three time all-state performer and 2-time Fiesta Region Player of the Year. Scored 24 goals as a senior in soccer. Was the kicker for the 2003 state champion Hamilton football team. Attended Seattle University to play soccer. Seattle won the Division II National Championship Jason's senior year. GNAC Conference All Academic Team as a sophomore. 2006 GNAC Player of the year with 16 goals and 33 points. Has played professionally for the Seattle Sounders, Seatle Wolves, and Kitsap Pumas.