Senior Austin Brinkman is mostly known for his position on the football field, but what many do not know is that he is also a skillful track runner.

Austin began running track last year during the spring, and this year will be his second year. He throws discus and participates in the 300 hurdles. He also runs 4 x 200 and 4 x 100 relays. Outside of JC, he trains with the other track sprinters during the off-season.

“My biggest challenge was honestly just being inexperienced,” Austin said. “Once I began running more and more, I got in better shape as it went along and was able to make more of an impact on the team.”   Austin struggled to find the right event at first, but once he found the right events and got comfortable, he focused on those the most.

Austin has many goals for the season, but his main goals are to come top three in the discus championship and post good times that can benefit the team.

“My favorite memory has really just been getting the experience of running track for the first time. It’s always been something I wanted to try, so it was great to be able to do it finally,” Austin said.

In regard to what advice he would give younger students just beginning to play JC sports, Austin said, “If you want that starting spot, you have to dedicate a lot of your time to training and be willing to train more than all the other guys you are competing with because in the end, you’re not the only one who wants the spot.”

He added, “You have to show the coaches that you want it more than anyone.”