Student-athlete contributing in track & field at ASU

Christopher Lomahquahu

Gila River Indian News

One student is making strides at the collegiate level while representing the Gila River Indian Community. Lee Nasewytewa, an Arizona State University Track and Field freshman is starting out his first semester running cross country. 

Right out of the gate, Nasewytewa has made a good impression among his teammates, contributing to the team’s first-place finishes at two meets this season. 

“He actually hung with the pack, with others that were junior and senior classman. He was nervous, but he wasn’t intimidated,” said Lee’s father Steven Nesewytewa. 

In his first cross-country meet in a Sun Devil uniform, Lee finished 16th out 36 entries at the Cactus Open on Aug. 31 in Tucson. 

Additionally, Lee has maintained a good pace with the junior and senior classmen from other teams.  Steven said, “He did what he could with the abilities that he has. He’s staying with the lead pack longer.” Steven said, Lee has received a good reception since coming on-board, even of those from other tribes such as the Navajo Nation and Hopi Tribe, who are on the female cross-country team.

He said, “They are seniors, but they really look after him and have taken him under their wing. They’re happy to see another Native runner on the team, representing his community at this level of competition.” 

In his recent cross-country meet, Lee notched his place up a bit, finishing 13th overall among a field of runners representing teams from California at the USD Invitational in Mission Bay San Diego. At meet, the Sun Devils took first place edging out Cal State Fullerton for the top spot.