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Dec. 2, 2011
TEMPE, Ariz. - Arizona State student-athletes Hillary Bach and Josh McAlister talk about their recent participation at the United Fantasy Flight and Cena en el Barrio events in which Sun Devil Athletics staff and student-athletes helped lend a hand.
Hillary Bach | Softball | Senior | United Fantasy Flight
"Student athletes are expected to compete in the classroom and on the field, but in my four years I have learned that there is so much more. Representing a University is a lot of responsibility, but competing as a Sun Devil has allowed me the opportunity to experience so many different things. In my four years at ASU I have grown so much as a person, and today was another experience I will never forget. This morning started before the sun with lots of anticipation from first time fliers. We were at the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport for the annual Sun Devil Serves event, Fantasy Flight. Every holiday season we partner with United Airlines to bring in young children from the Valley for a once in a lifetime opportunity: a trip to the North Pole! Once we were all buckled on board, screams of excitement filled the air of our festive plane covered in tinsel garland. It was a short flight full of Christmas singing and cheers for Santa Claus.
A Phoenix Fire Department "snow," and tons of smiles welcomed us, including Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and other familiar Disney characters. My heart melted as I stepped off the plane and my new four-year-old friend Leslie reached up for my hand. We walked in together to a terminal completely made over into the North Pole. Wall to wall entertainment included games, cookie decorating, face painting, balloon animals, and a chance to sit on Santa's lap. Each child went home with a bag of toys, and two books to call their own. I could see the excitement in their eyes, and without this event, many of those kids would not have experienced Christmas. It is always a humbling experience to serve others, and I am so grateful for the platform and opportunities through my time with ASU athletics.
From myself and the rest of the Sun Devil family, Happy Holidays! GO DEVILS!"
Josh McAlister| Baseball | Sophomore | Cena en el Barrio
"Every holiday season, there are some people who are not as fortunate as some. While the majority of people are enjoying the holidays, some are just trying to get through them. A team of volunteers and Sun Devil athletes hopefully made an impact on someone's life today by gathering food and drinks. These athletes, who are a part of the Sun Devils Serve organization, put together close to 3,000 bags of food for people over the holidays.
This organization is committed to giving back to the community. We realize as athletes we are given many opportunities to succeed in life, and we want to show our appreciation for everyone's continued support of Sun Devil athletics. As this holiday season approaches, take a look around and see what you can do to serve others. There are many chances to make someone's life even just a little bit better. I have to say serving is an incredible feeling!
Enjoy the holiday season with family and friends. It is a great time of year to relax, but also remember the true reason of why we are here. Never forget that there is always true faith, hope and love for the ones who seek it!
Josh McAlister ASU Baseball"
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