The Northern Star counts down the top 10 athletes of the year, as picked by the sports staff.

A strong work ethic and intense attitude are two keys to success when it comes to athletics.

NIU designated hitter Justin Behm possesses both qualities, and it shows through his numbers. The junior is batting .307 on the year and leads the team in home runs (eight), RBIs (34) and slugging percentage (.507).

Behm is also tied in the MAC for most home runs (seven) and RBIs (26) in 21 games of conference play.

“It’s about staying patient and seeing the ball and waiting for my pitch,” Behm said. “I’ve been able to capitalize on mistakes pitchers have made and that’s when good things happen.”

The Downers Grove native has already eclipsed his final numbers from last season. In 2007, Behm finished with a .273 batting average and 22 RBIs. In MAC play, he batted .372 with one home run and five RBIs in 15 games.

“He has worked hard on the offensive side and has gotten a lot better, physically,” NIU head coach Ed Mathey said. “He has a lot of expectations for himself. He puts in the work and definitely wants to make it pay off when it comes time to play.

Along with a strong work ethic, Behm plays with passion, too. That intensity and enthusiasm tends to rub off on the team in a positive way, NIU third baseman Jordin Hood said.

“I’m a competitor and I do whatever I can to win,” Behm said. “I try to be there for my team as much as possible.”