May 16, 2013
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - Arizona State football student-athlete Alden Darby has been named to the watch list for the 10th annual Lott IMPACT Trophy.
Darby, one of 42 student-athletes represented on the list, embodies someone who excels in the classroom, on the field and around the community. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity, and is awarded to those who have a positive influence both on and off the field.
He flourished after moving from cornerback to safety prior to the 2012 season as he played an instrumental role in a defensive backfield that ranked third nationally in pass defense and 10th in passing efficiency defense, and led the Pac-12 in both categories. ASU also finished the season with 21 interceptions, a mark that was tied for fourth in the nation.
An All-Pac-12 Second Team selection, Darby recorded three interceptions on the year, including one against USC that he returned for a 70-yard touchdown, which was the longest interception return for a touchdown for ASU since Troy Nolan's 100-yard return in 2008. Darby also added 80 tackles, including eight in the team's Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl win over Navy.
Darby is heavily involved in the Scholar Baller leadership and outreach program, where he helps develop curriculum, deliver, teach and mentor students at South Mountain High School, Academy of Excellence and Cesar Chavez High School teaching them about developing championship character, creating a strong sense of self and becoming a great leader.
A three-year Sun Devil, Darby has 145 career tackles, six career interceptions for a 194 return yards, and seven pass deflections.
Former Sun Devil linebacker Brandon Magee was named to the watch list prior to the 2012 season.
The 10th annual Lott IMPACT Trophy Black-Tie Awards Banquet will be Dec. 8 at the Pacific Club in Newport Beach.
For more information about the Lott IMPACT Trophy and this year's Watch List, visit www.lottimpacttrophy.com.