Senior Jordy Checkal (San Diego, Calif./Point Loma)
Why did you choose Arizona State University?
I wanted to play DI Pac-12 volleyball, close enough to home while still being away, and I also have family in Scottsdale.
How did you family react to your college decision?
They were excited and nervous for me to see if I could survive away from the ocean for more than one day. But they were definitely proud of me.
When did you begin playing volleyball and why?
Freshman year of high school. I got injured in soccer so I thought I would take up a sport that uses my hands.
When did you realize you could compete at the Division I level?
Once everyone else started believing in me. Especially my high school coach. After that I decided I was going to play DI no matter what.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Winning the Double A sand volleyball tournament at my home beach beating my biggest rival.
Have you decided on a major?
Event planning.
What is your dream job?
Owning a non-profit in Ocean Beach, San Diego teaching unprivileged kids to surf and mentor.
Is there any other athlete, either professional or collegiate, that inspires you?
Definitely Bethany Hamilton, pro surfer. If she can surf with one arm and still compete, then I cant really ever complain.
Aside from volleyball, what is your favorite sport?
Surfing.
Athletics have strict diet regimens, but if there was one food that you cannot live without, what is it?
Bean and cheese burritos, especially after surfing.
What is your favorite song/musician?
Need To Breathe
If you could be on the cover of any magazine, which would you choose?
Any major surfing magazine, and a picture of me in a huge barrel.
What is your favorite 90s television show?
Rocket Power
Senior Bethany Jorgensen (Tempe, Ariz./Corona Del Sol)
Why did you choose Arizona State University?
I’ve always loved ASU since I am from Arizona I wanted to stay close to my family.
How did you family react to your college decision?
They loved having me at ASU so they could come watch every game.
When did you begin playing volleyball and why?
I started playing in seventh grade.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Making it to the NCAA tournament with indoor ASU volleyball team my senior year.
Have you decided on a major?
In undergrad I earned Health Sciences degree, and am now working towards a Master of Science-Science of Health Care Delivery
What is your dream job?
Physician Assistant
Aside from volleyball, what is your favorite sport?
Ping-Pong
Athletics have strict diet regimens, but if there was one food that you cannot live without, what is it?
Pizza
What is your favorite song/musician?
Taylor Swift
If you could be on the cover of any magazine, which would you choose?
People