Don Snider's Lasting Impact
For so many Sun Devils – past, present and future – Maroon & Gold is not a choice or a casual fandom, but a way of life. For the Snider family, this has been the case since they moved to Arizona from Ohio in the early 1960s. From then on, Don Snider – also known as the “Pickle Man” instilled an affinity and dedication to Arizona State University that is hard to rival.
Don passed away in October of 2020 and his son Bob and daughter-in-law Linda have since established the Don Snider Memorial Sun Devil Softball Scholarship in his memory.
“He was a season ticket holder for the major men's sports,” Bob said. “But his real zeal for ASU athletics grew with his love for women's basketball and softball.”
Snider was a staple in the community. He was the president of the Scottsdale Quarterback Club and helped its transformation in the Valley Athletic Booster Club (VABC) and he was a vehement supporter of all athletics – but especially women’s sports – at ASU.
“He found so many of the players to be intelligent and charming, and loved their commitment to their teammates and the university,” Bob added. “He reveled in telling Linda and I about so many of these players, their exuberant personalities and their accomplishments, both on and off the field or court.”
Snider did what he could to support the programs that meant so much to him. Now, his impact can live on in perpetuity with the scholarship named in his honor.
“Though not a wealthy man, he gave what he could to support their programs behind the scenes,” Bob concluded. “That has inspired my wife and I to continue that giving.”
Don Snider’s Sun Devil Story may not seem out of the ordinary or particularly unique, but his impact sure was and continues to be singular as he was. The beauty of what makes us all Sun Devils is that no matter the path or journey, we all arrive in the same place, hoping to leave a legacy like Don.
To make a gift to the Don Snider Memorial Sun Devil Softball Scholarship or the Bob and Linda Snider Sun Devil Football Scholarship, use the links below: