Austin Melson

Bethel High School

In the sixth grade, Austin Melson moved to Bethel and began playing the sport he had always loved: football. The heart of small towns revolves around high school sports. “Bethel is a small town. Football is a big deal around here and something I take pride in,” he says.

Now a senior linebacker for Bethel High School, Austin’s love of football is strong. “Football is something I’ve loved since I put on the pads. It is like going to my own happy place,” Austin said.

Teamwork and discipline are skills he has learned playing football that can be taken off the field into everyday life. Austin says playing taught him to always “give everything you got in everything you do.”

Austin’s favorite memory is of a game where his team put everything they had on the field. It was his freshman year, in week ten against Purcell. “It was a very important game for playoff seeding. We played with a chip on our shoulder and went out there and put it on them,” says Austin.

When asked who inspires him, he looks to family. “Definitely my dad,” says Austin, “he has always been hard on me and has a great work ethic.”

NFL and former University of Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield is a pro player he looks up to. “Watching him play growing up, he has always been my favorite player. We do not play the same position, but I’ve always loved how much passion and swagger he has when he plays,” says Austin.

His favorite teacher is Mrs. Jones from sophomore biology. She made biology fun and is a great person. Teammate John Allred left a big impression, always holding Austin accountable pushing him to be better. Austin wants to give a shoutout to coach Ginn and coach Blizz. “They have always coached me hard and have always held me accountable to a high standard,” he says.

The best advice Austin says is from Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”