In a unique blend of sports and mountaineering spirit, the San Diego State University Aztecs have adopted “The Climb” as their 2025 season’s defining theme — symbolizing perseverance, teamwork, and grit.

Following their sixth win of the season over Fresno State, SDSU head coach Sean Lewis revealed the inspiration behind the team’s mantra — a motivational talk from Richard Bailey, the former mayor of Coronado who successfully scaled Mount Everest’s South Summit (28,704 feet) earlier this year.

“We actually had a gentleman from Coronado who came in and spoke to our team who had climbed Mount Everest,” Lewis said. “You reach 26,000 feet, and though you’re only 5,000 feet from the top, you have to go back to base camp and start again. That’s the suffering and strength of the journey.”

Bailey’s climb — his second attempt after three years of intense training — was marked by treacherous weather, severe vomiting, infections, and oxygen deprivation. Yet, his resilience left a lasting impression on the Aztecs’ players.

“He’s a little bit crazy — but it’s all grit and preparation,” said safety Eric Butler. “You don’t just start climbing and reach Everest. You train, you fail, you climb smaller mountains first.”

Tight end Seth Adams added that the Everest metaphor reflected their own journey from offseason preparation to bowl contention.

Coach Lewis connected the team’s midseason break to Everest’s base camp reset — a period of recalibration before tackling the toughest challenges ahead.

“The higher you climb, the harder it gets. You embrace the pain and the suffering that most people avoid — but that’s what makes it meaningful,” Lewis said.

As of late October 2025, SDSU (6-1, 3-0 Mountain West) boasts one of the nation’s top defenses, ranking among the best in rushing defense, points allowed, and red-zone efficiency.

📊 By the Numbers:

• 2 rushing touchdowns allowed — second only to Ohio State.

• 4 defensive touchdowns scored — tied for third nationally.

• 10.4 points allowed per game — second-best in FBS.

• 255 yards allowed per game — 9th nationally.

Bailey’s Everest story continues to inspire athletes and adventurers alike — a reminder that every climb, whether on a mountain or a football field, demands courage, preparation, and heart.

For more real Everest stories and mountaineering insights, visit Mount Everest Summit News or explore our Expedition Inspiration Series.