ASU Football Forge Brotherhood and Traditions at Camp Tontozona

ASU football is set to travel to Camp Tontozona, continuing a revered team tradition that promises an enriching experience for the players.

TEMPE, Ariz. — Ask any Arizona State Sun Devil about Camp Tontozona, and their reactions are filled with enthusiasm.

“Oh man, get ready,” said Offensive lineman Ben Coleman. “It’s a hell of an experience.”

While the camp revolves around football, it’s the team bonding and shared traditions that define its essence.

“There are no cell phones,” Head Coach Kenny Dillingham explained. “Do we play spades? I just want to know who will sit and talk, who will compete, and who will put their feet in the river.”

For 64 years, Camp Tontozona has been integral to Sun Devil Football, and Coach Dillingham aims to uphold this enduring tradition.

“We structured this to see who can stay focused for six days because that’s what this team needs. We don’t need more talent; we need the right mindset,” Dillingham said.

Camp T offers a unique setting, nestled among Ponderosa pines, 17.9 miles outside of Payson. The slower pace compared to Tempe is crucial for fostering team unity before the demanding season ahead.

“Sleeping next to guys, hearing them snore, and trying not to wake them up in the morning is critical for building camaraderie. Sitting around the campfire and sharing stories helps everyone understand each other better,” said Coleman.

Despite the long days, the absence of distractions like cell phones makes Tontozona an ideal environment for bonding.

“The more we bond, the better I can play alongside my teammates,” noted graduate transfer Jeff Clark.

The team will practice at Camp T from Wednesday through Saturday, culminating in the Maroon and Gold scrimmage.

Arizona sports

Phoenix boasts teams in all four major professional leagues, including the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, NBA’s Phoenix Suns, WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, and MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Cardinals call State Farm Stadium in Glendale home, while the Suns and Mercury play at the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix. The Indoor Football League’s Arizona Rattlers play at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale.

Additionally, Phoenix is home to the USL’s Phoenix Rising FC, who play at Phoenix Rising FC Stadium.

The Valley hosts numerous major sporting events annually, such as the Fiesta Bowl, WM Phoenix Open, NASCAR events, and Cactus League Spring Training for 15 MLB teams.