Yeah, but her field is sideline reporter. Being the top of your field in a useless job, I mean, so what?
You feel for her having to go through that. She's one tough cookie. But that doesn't have anything to do with being good at her job.
Definitely a thankless job. A useless job. Created for people who can't quite make it as announcers. (really it was created to put a "pretty" face on the sidelines). And respect for her (which I'm sure many have) isn't what keeps players and coaches from blowing her (or any sideline reporter) off. It's the NCAA/schools that force them to do those silly things.
Here's something for you to read.
Deadspin | The First Sideline Reporter: "All Of This Was Just Nonsense"
deadspin.com