Jackie & Yanni
So much of what former Sun Devil Letterwinners reflect on when talking about their time as a student-athlete revolves around former teammates and coaches. So often it’s about friendships and relationships forged at ASU that last a lifetime. For former Sun Devil Softball standout and National Champion Jackie Vasquez-Lapan, that while that may be true, it’s a relationship she formed years after her graduation that has made the largest impact.
“When I first got back involved with the program, I asked if there were any girls on the team who had a background like mine,” Vasquez-Lapan said. “Immediately I was introduced to Yanni Acuña and our connection was almost immediate.”
Acuña, like Vasquez-Lapan, comes from humble beginnings. Both women hail from the Tucson-area and say they likely wouldn’t have been able to attend college were it not for their scholarships.
“Yanni and I both were the first people in our families to attend college,” Vasquez-Lapan added. “A lot of people don’t realize that side of collegiate athletics. It is our way out and can be a life-trajectory-altering opportunity. I know it was for both of us.”
As a result of this instantaneous bond, Acuña and Vasquez-Lapan have had the unique opportunity to collaborate with Acuña working for the Lapan Sunshine Foundation in her spare time both to earn extra money – most of which she sends home to her family – and to give back to her community.
Like Vasquez-Lapan, Acuña has big dreams after she finishes her playing career. She is currently getting her Masters and is hoping to pursue coaching once she finishes her schooling so she can give girls like her the same opportunities she got to play the game she loves and make a better life for her and her family.
“I think a lot of people assume student-athletes all have it good,” Vasquez-Lapan said. “Some definitely get help from mom and dad, but for kids like Yanni, it’s nothing like that…she’s supporting her family, not the other way around.”
It was also this relationship that inspired Vasquez-Lapan to make a substantial investment in Sun Devil Softball with the aim of helping upgrade areas such as the locker room and team areas.
“Hanging around Yanni reminded me of my playing days,” Vasquez-Lapan concluded. “I know how much these upgrades would’ve meant to a younger version of myself so with the support of Dave, it was really exciting to be able to play that role in enacting real, tangible change.”
A fervent pair of Sun Devil Softball Ambassadors, Acuña and Vasquez-Lapan are the embodiment of Sun Devils for Life. Neither takes an opportunity to don the Maroon & Gold for granted and both believe firmly in this community and giving back to those who have supported them both.
“I’ve learned so much from Jackie," Acuña said. "She does so good for the community and just seeing what she does inspires me to give back. When I go home to Tucson those are my people. I grew up with those kids and I understand how their life is and I'm able to listen and tell them it’s going to get better.”
Two women brought up with less than those around them, given an opportunity, making an impact. The Sun Devil Way.
“She’s mini-me,” Vasquez-Lapan said. “She inspires me every day, driving from Mesa to the facility, so if this gift helps propel her to the greatness I know she’s capable of as well as that for all those who come after her, I’ll know I made my younger self proud.”
To make a gift to the Sun Devil Softball program and support student-athletes Yanni, joining Jackie in making that impact, use the link below: