International student-athletes thrive in Tempe – Sun Devil Athletics

By Jonah Broos, Cronkite PR Lab

For most freshmen, the transition into college is tumultuous. The college experience is one of new responsibilities, new experiences and new perspectives. New Sun Devils, whether they grew up across the street from campus or across the country, take time to adjust to the shift to their new lifestyle.

For international students, this process can be even more jarring. They’re tasked with adapting not only to a new lifestyle but also to a new culture, geography, and in many cases, a new language.

This academic year, more than 100 Sun Devil student-athletes are international students. It’s a staggering realization that these young people have managed to balance this transition with the demanding day-to-day schedule of a student-athlete.

It’s an understatement to note that these international Sun Devils have been incredibly successful in making the transition. This story will take a look at student-athletes from men’s golf, women’s tennis and women’s swimming.

Men’s Golf: José Luis Ballester

Just last year, Sun Devil golfer José Luis Ballester became the first Spaniard to win the U.S. Amateur. Former Sun Devil swimmer Léon Marchand set Olympic and world records in the 200 and 400-meter individual medley at the 2024 Paris Olympics, claiming four gold medals and a bronze medal for his native France. International Sun Devils are vital to the program. They come to Tempe to compete and stand out among the best amateur athletes in the world.

Matt Thurmond, head coach of Sun Devil Men’s Golf, has found talent from every corner of the globe since taking the reins in 2017. Thurmond says international perspectives have enriched his team culture, driving Sun Devil Golf to new heights.

“Political discourse, especially right now in our country, has created this idea that people who come from different backgrounds in some way only take from our culture,” explained Thurmond. “I have learned in my coaching that it’s the complete opposite.”

“If you have a bunch of people who think, and do, and see the world through the same lens, you’re just not going to reach your potential. It gets old and stale. The conversations are flat; the progress is stifled because nobody can add anything,” Thurmond noted. “I have just seen it be such an awesome benefit for us, to have all these different kinds of styles and perspectives added to the group.”

Thurmond has created a culture of positivity and selflessness that systematically…