One of the best parts of my job is regularly talking to the top athletes our school has to offer. After a full year covering the sports I wanted, I'd like to step out of my shell of objectivity and give my list of favorite Sun Devil athletes and what it's like talking to them.
10. Jason Shivers, so., football - Free safety who led the team in tackles the past two years and couldn't be more vicious on the field or more friendly off it. His quotes add a positive spin to stories.
9. Kara Brun, sr., softball - This shortstop's scrappy defense energizes and sets an example for the team's newcomers. Heart and soul of the team will be sorely missed, as will her veteran perspective.
8. Riccardo Stewart, soph., football - A bruising strong safety, he epitomized the young Sun Devils with breakout season. He is intelligent and one of the most insightful players on the team.
7. Kristin Farber, jr., softball - Petite center fielder's slap batting style and lightning speed are a blast to watch. Her comments are always sincere and straightforward.
6. Regis Crawford, jr., football - Left tackle turned right guard is the leader of the "Hogs." While he busts heads in the trenches, he is a gentle giant off the field, always willing to openly talk about the team.
5. Ashley Kelly, fr., gymnastics - Former international competitor has propelled ASU from a good team to an elite team this season. Her power and finesse make her a world-class performer in the all-around, yet she is very humble.
4. Phelan Wright, jr., softball - Third baseman is prototypical power hitter, defensive gem and an imposing presence on the field. She has shattered home run records yet prefers to shrug off the props.
3. Kylan Loney, soph., women's basketball - Point guard is a bona fide team leader and plays every second at a breakneck pace. "Little Miss Young Republican" is the friendliest person I've interviewed and offers more insight on the team than most coaches.
2. Jill Noe, fr., women's basketball - Shooting guard sensation led team in scoring and is one of best female athletes I've ever watched. There isn't a more outgoing, lively or playful personality around, which makes the team great fun to cover.
1. Andrew Walter, soph., football - The new icon of ASU athletics put up with a lot of crap early in his career. After breaking nearly every ASU single-season passing record last year, he is destined for an extended career in the NFL. While he used to be shunned and criticized, Walter now is revered and catered to but has remained a good person throughout.
Want to be heard? Post your opinion in the forum below.
Reach the reporter at christopher.drexel@asu.edu.
