A Legacy of Brotherhood
Every August, the Arizona State Sun Devils converge on Camp Tontozona, a secluded retreat perched about twenty miles east of Payson, to kick off the preseason with a ritual that has endured since 1959, when legendary coach Frank Kush first established the tradition.
Stripped of television and reliable internet, the camp forces players into a landscape of campfires, hiking trails, and shared meals, a deliberate move to strip away distractions and foster genuine connection among teammates.
This year the roster features seventeen returning starters alongside a wave of new athletes, making the cultivation of chemistry a non‑negotiable priority for the coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Securing the Best Spots
Senior linebacker Kyson Brown, one of the team’s most seasoned players, urges veterans to claim their preferred bunk spots early, ensuring a sense of familiarity and comfort amid the rustic setting.
Wide receiver Omarion Miller, a transfer from Colorado, acknowledges the skepticism that greets newcomers but stresses that the woods provide a rare opportunity to forge bonds that transcend on‑field roles.
Coach Kenny Dillingham has observed a marked improvement in team cohesion since spring practices, noting that players are now more physically engaged and emotionally attuned during drills.
Nightly campfires illuminate the evenings, while daytime hikes through the surrounding pine forest offer moments of camaraderie, though participants have also recounted unexpected encounters, such as a startled tarantula invading a dormitory.