Each month, Sun Devil Athletics’ Office of Student Athlete Development recognizes student-athletes who exemplify the Sun Devil Way in the classroom and in collegiate athletics as Student-Athletes of the Month.
Tanner Hall | Wrestling
Tanner Hall is a freshman from Idaho and a member of the wrestling team. In just his second semester on campus, he is quickly creating solid academic habits and is making a name for himself on the mats. As a true freshman, he qualified for the NCAA Championships that were held in New York City. It was undoubtedly a great experience for him and something he expects to return to for the next three seasons. He is an outstanding individual who works hard in the classroom and on the mats. A student in ASU’s Barrett Honors College, he is currently majoring in Electrical Engineering. Tanner spent 24 months living in Uganda to serve on mission, and in 2012 he participated at the 2012 Olympic Trials.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way?
“To me, the Sun Devil Way is simply just an extension of the goals that I have already set for myself. Mirroring the Sun Devi Way allows me to check and make sure that I have the ability to not only succeed now, but also in the future.”
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil Family to inspire others to commit to upholding Sun Devils graduate in their own lives?
“Sports will end one day for everyone. You cannot rely on sports to get you everything that you are going to need to be successful in the future. Following the Sun Devil Way only makes life easier down the road.”
Jamie Friderichs | Women’s Swimming and Diving
A senior on the women’s swimming and diving team, Jamie is set to graduate this spring with her BS in Family and Human Development. The ultimate ambassador for Sun Devil Athletics, Jamie has performed countless hours of community service, participated in the Tip of the Fork program for excelling student-athletes, participated in the Sun Devils for Life Mentoring Program and served as a team captain for the Women’s Swimming and Diving team for the 2015-2016 season. Struggling through a back injury since last year, Jamie’s Sun Devil journey has not always been easy. However, she always has a smile on her face and is always willing to help everyone around her. Next year, Jamie will remain at ASU and will serve as a Graduate Assistant in Sun Devil Athletics while she pursues her Masters in the Sports Law and Business Program.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way?
“My teammates motivate me to uphold the commitment to the Sun Devil Way in all aspects of my life. I know that they are counting on me to excel both in the classroom and the pool in order to help our team succeed.”
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil family to inspire others to commit to upholding the Sun Devil Way in their own lives?
“I would tell other athletes to always look for more. In competition and in the classroom, there is always a way to get better and help the people around you succeed. Whether you realize it or not, you are an influence on those around you and can make a huge impact on their lives.”
Willie Atwood | Men’s Basketball
Willie Atwood is currently a senior men’s basketball player who will be graduating in Summer 2016 with his degree in Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies with concentrations in Sociology and Communication. Willie will be the first in his family to earn his bachelor’s degree and has worked extremely hard during his two years as a Sun Devil. On the court, Willie was extremely successful this year, starting every game and leading the Sun Devils to an 11-4 start to the season. In the classroom, he is on track to become a Scholar Baller® this semester for the first time in his collegiate career. Whether it is on the court or in the classroom, Willie exemplifies what it means to be a Sun Devil. He is respectful, courteous, and an all around good person who knows what his goals are and will do anything to succeed.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way in the classroom?
“I have a great academic adviser in Jessica Richardson. She always pushes me to be a great student athlete. Most of all, I want to be a great student-athlete because I want to graduate.”
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil family to inspire others to commit to upholding the Sun Devil Way in their own lives?
“My advice to the Sun Devil Family is to keep working hard and don't ever give up when things get a little tough.”
Skylar McCarty | Softball
Skylar McCarty, a member of the softball team, is establishing herself as a competitive scholar-athlete in the classroom and on the field. An “all-in" worker, Skylar has demonstrated a high level of commitment to the Sun Devil Way. She “competes with passion and character” and does not back down from a challenge. Over the last month, she has completed “A” and “B” work in the classroom, all while being in-season with her sport. Skylar’s determination and engagement on the field and in her academics exemplify being a Sun Devil student-athlete at the highest level.
What motivates you to have such an outstanding commitment to the Sun Devil Way in the classroom?
“Becoming a Scholar Baller® each semester and holding myself accountable for my grades, behaviors, actions and life choices is what motivates me to commit to myself to the Sun Devil Way. I want my Sun Devil family and my own family to be proud of all the passion and good character that I put into being a student at Arizona State University. I also have the responsibility and determination to be a true team member and serve my team in practice, games, and working towards the goals we have set.”
What advice would you share with the Sun Devil family to inspire others to commit to upholding the Sun Devil Way in their own lives?
“I have learned through my first year that nothing is easy and that you have to work for what you want. You have to be passionate towards what you truly love and work hard each day to fulfill the commitments made.”