After an undefeated senior year that saw him win the national title at 125 pounds, Anthony Robles will receive the Jimmy V award at the 2011 ESPYs.
Born without a right leg, Robles established himself as a top wrestler before his college career, winning the state championship both his junior and senior years at Mesa High School.
He carried that momentum into his career as a Sun Devil, and finally grabbed an NCAA title with a 7-1 victory over Iowa’s Matt McDonough in the final.
The honor is given for perseverance, and Robles is the fifth recipient of the award. Last year’s winner was Denver Nugget’s coach George Karl.
Robles was nominated for an ESPY in 2006 for “Best Male Athlete with a Disability.” This year he is again a candidate for the award in addition to the Jimmy V award.
ASU pitcher Dallas Escobedo is also nominated for an ESPY after Sun Devil Softball’s run to the national title. Escobedo is in the running for “Best College Female Athlete.”
— Elijah Grasser
