In the game with ... Oscar Smith's Richard Diaz

CHESAPEAKE

Oscar Smith senior Richard Diaz has let his feet do the talking for him during the past four years.

As a freshman, he netted 13 goals and was named Southeastern District Rookie of the Year. He followed with campaigns of 12 and 10 goals en route to consecutive first-team all-district honors.

But the the sudden spike to 24 goals - tops in South Hampton Roads - sends a message across the region that he and the Tigers are ready to step out of the shadow of their district rivals.

"This year, he's getting the job done for us up top," Tigers coach Brandon Spontak said. "Before, opponents could mark him out of games - at times. He's developed into a player that's dangerous with or without the ball."

Diaz had a crucial goal in Thursday's 3-2 win over Indian River to vault the Tigers into a tie with Hickory in the district race.

He's scored in all but one game, including both goals in a 2-2 tie with Hickory in the regular-season opener.

"Tying them was a big message to the district," Diaz said. "The past couple of years, they've been winning everything."

With three Southeastern District games remaining, including contests against Great Bridge tonight and Grassfield on Thursday, the Tigers remain in control of their title aspirations.

"These are the two biggest games of our season. Going undefeated will be a big statement," Diaz said.

Diaz added that in a school known for a dominant football program, succeeding at soccer would be a big boost for the athletics program.

Both player and coach say a more relaxed demeanor on the field has a ffected Diaz's scoring.

"The first three years, you have a lot of pressure to prove yourself," said Diaz, who signed with NCAA Division I runner-up Akron. "Being a senior takes a lot of that pressure off. I'm just having a great time on the field. "

Added Spontak: "I told him, 'You don't have to rip down the net every time. "

In the past, Diaz joked about achieving high goal numbers - 40 to be exact.

And though he didn't come close previously, his more realistic hope of 30 is feasible, especially with the possibility of advancing to the Eastern Region tournament or further.

"The biggest thing is his maturation over four years - he's had his moments in the past," said Spontak, recalling a missed chance against Western Branch early in Diaz's career.

"This year, he's showing everything. When he turns it all on, he's a very dominant player for us."