Don Ketchum
Former Staff Writer, AZPreps365.com

Here are some athletes who left lasting impression in 12-13

May 19, 2013 by Don Ketchum, AZPreps365


Here are some of the state’s top athletes from 2012-13 whom I enjoyed watching and/or interviewing for AIA365.com . . . those listed are from my area of coverage -- Phoenix, Scottsdale, the southwest and northwest Valley and northern Arizona.

Devon Allen, Phoenix Brophy Prep. Perhaps the state’s most versatile athlete, he had a solid football season as a receiver despite struggling with injuries and came back in the spring to win the 200 and both hurdles events and finish second in the 100 at the Division I state meet. Headed to the University of Oregon.

Mark Andrews, Scottsdale Desert Mountain. The outstanding receiver will go down as one of the most heavily recruited players in the state’s history. And he only should get better for the Wolves this fall, if that’s possible. Not many people realize that he also can make a significant impact as a punter and kickoff leg. He also played forward as team went deep into the basketball playoffs.

Andrew Bryniarski, Fountain Hills. This big, talented junior helped his team win the Division III baseball championship as a power-hitting first baseman and outstanding pitcher.

Kishan Cooper, Scottsdale Salt River. This outstanding passer and overall floor leader was one of the reasons why her basketball team was among the state’s best in Division IV all season.

Sarah Fakler, Phoenix Xavier Prep. She wrapped up her career as one of the top distance runners in state history, winning cross-country and track events. Now it’s on to the University of Virginia.

Ryan Finley, Phoenix Paradise Valley.  Was one of the state’s top quarterbacks and will go on to play at Boise State. He might have been even more impressive on the basketball floor as one of the key ingredients in the Trojans’ run to the Division II championship.

Ozaharia Fisher, Phoenix Thunderbird. The freshman point guard emerged as one of the state’s rising stars in girls’ basketball. If she continues to show maturity and works hard, the sky’s the limit.

Navareio Holmes, Phoenix Sunnyslope. The point guard’s enthusiasm was contagious at both ends of the floor and he figures to be back again this winter.

Riggs Lennon, Phoenix Brophy Prep. Perhaps the best soccer player in state history.

Taylor Nowlin, Peoria Sunrise Mountain. The ace left-handed pitcher had a perpetual smile on her face, and why not? The Mustangs lost only one game all year and won the Division II championship.

Chantel Osahor, Phoenix St. Mary’s. One of the best basketball players to come along in awhile, a great passer, period, not just for a post player. She also was outstanding in the shot put and discus.

Trevor Osborne, Phoenix Northwest Christian. One of the top hitters from his safety spot and one of the most intelligent players. Probably could have been a great quarterback if he wanted.

Madison Reisdorf, Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep. Few soccer players were as dedicated or worked as hard as she did over a four-year stretch.

Jake Roh, Scottsdale Chaparral. As a receiver, he had great hands, the ability to get open and speed after the catch. As a linebacker-end, his quickness allowed him to harass opposing quarterbacks.

Jorrell Smith, Phoenix Cortez. Guard displayed many of the same characteristics on the basketball floor as Dewayne Russell, the former Peoria High star who was on this list a year ago and went on to play for Northern Arizona.

Sarah Sponcil, Phoenix Veritas Prep. As legit as legit can be on the volleyball floor. Two-time Arizona Republic Small School Player of the Year who likely will make it three next year as well as lead her team to another championship.

Katie Werner, Phoenix Xavier Prep. I had seen her play basketball once or twice prior to the season and knew she was good, saw her four or five more times this year and was sold. Without her, the Gators would have been left in the dust.

Sydney Wiese, Phoenix Pinnacle. She was one of the best shooters in Arizona, male or female. And not just from mid-range. She could hit from anywhere. The only thing missing was a state championship. She deserved one. She should be able to make a seamless transition to college ball at Oregon State.