The football Class of 2012 is loaded with talent and taking most of the Headlines. Having said that the boys of 2013 are making some noise of their own and look to be one of the best classes ever led by super-recruit Thomas Tyner. Another guy who has already proven himself in many regards is Crescent Valley Defensive End Austin Powell.
Powell is one big kid. At 6’4″ and 240 pounds right now he already has the frame of a collegiate player. His work ethic and commitment may be what will set the Corvallis native apart.
“I am 100% dedicated to my studies and my athletics. Right now I get to train everyday at OSU with strength and conditioning Coach Tim Rabas. That is through the USA Weightlifting Club I belong to,” said Powell. “It is pretty incredible to live in a college town and then have a chance to train like the college guys do. And once and a while we train with them and they encourage me and teach me too.”
That encouragement has led to him understanding he has to maintain his flexibility and explosiveness. Something he constantly gets compliments on.
“You know what? I did a full splits yesterday. That was pretty great! I guess my flexibility and quickness are my trade mark. For the first time I am starting to add strength to that. I am working on Power Cleans, Snatch, Clean and Jerk, and anything that develops that explosion,” added Austin.
He is a terrific looking athlete and passes the look test. His trademark as a Defensive End is his quick get off. If he can maintain that and continue to grow into his frame he can be special.
“What I am excited about is this strength I am adding. I feel stronger and more explosive then ever and once I get the pads back on….well my mouth is watering already.”
The other thing that has him fired up is his wrestling season where he took 7th in the State in only his second year as a grappler. Something not easy to do in a State like Oregon where nationally ranked wrestlers are present at many meets.
Austin will be one of the top football players in the State for his class. He reminds us of Taylor Hart (Tualatin/Oregon) or probably a bit more like Alex Balducci (Central Catholic). Lofty comparisons aside he appears to be on track to move on into a collegiate program.
But where to go? Hmmm…..
“OSU is my #1 school. When you have been a Beaver like me since age 4 and gone to so many games your going to have that dream. I love the black and orange,” he said smiling.
And why not? He will have the size and skill if he continues on the path he is on. Look for him to court them and it will not be surprising if the Beavers stay in town and grab him up. What with gas prices soaring and all could you blame them?
His plans for this season are to win it all. Simple.
“We have some amazing athletes playing football here at Crescent Valley and I think our group coming through here know how to win and want this a lot. So we are dedicated,” he said. “Also our Coaching staff is great and Coach Sanders gives us all he has to give. We have a great shot to succeed.”
Powell is thinking ahead too and plans for a career in law enforcement after college is over.
“Maybe the SWAT Team. That seems like it would be rewarding to me,” he concluded.
One thing is for sure. If he does not make it to OSU he will get his shot somewhere. He is just too big and athletic not too.
Watch for Austin Powell’s name to be mentioned often when the best in the class of 2013 are discussed.
Read it all at OregonPreps.com
