Interview: 2020 California FS/SR Stephen Austin Talks All-League Performance
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There is nothing like showing up for an event on time and ready to deliver; that was what Stephen Austin did during his senior season on the gridiron. The 5-10, 180-pound, play-maker needed a big season on the field not only to help his Warren High School (7-4) squad to the playoffs but also to let next level scouts what he can do on the field – mission accomplished on both fronts. Austin played free safety and linebacker for the Bears coming up with 27 tackles and picked off four passes with a pick-six in stats through the first six games of the season. He also lined up in the slot hauling in 28 passes for 313 yards with three scores and averaged 28 yards per punt return over that span, and the stat sheet continued to be filled. His play was such throughout the year, on Friday San Gabriel Valley League coaches named him first team All-League as an athlete.
Austin continues to pull in outside recruiting interest as National Signing Day edges closer with a visit taken to Azusa Pacific. To talk about his season and recruiting process, we sat down for a quick update confab.
*Click link for Oct. 11, 2019, RNG interview with Stephen Austin
Interview
Stephen, looking back on the season, how would you grade your overall performance on defense?
“On defense, I did better on defense this season as I am more of a defensive player. I got a lot of tackles; I am a great tackler and I bring down people. I would give myself an A.”
And what about on offense? What is the grade there?
“For offense, I am pretty good actually. My offense is up there with my defense, but I wish I had more touchdowns. I know I have a lot of yards and receptions… I would give myself an A-.”
I always ask you about your improvements on the field when we talk. You played five games since we spoke last. Now, where do you feel your overall skills improved on defense?
“My overall skills improved with my tackling and reading the offensive linemen. Playing linebacker this season, this was my first time doing that. Being able to read the linemen and make plays off that was big for me. I also showed improvement playing free safety. I showed improvement covering in my zone; we do run a lot of zone. Whoever comes in my zone I am quick to the receiver. I got better at getting out of my backpedal and going straight to the ball.”
Where did you show the improvement on offense?
“My skills on offense sharpened this season after I had lost a lot of footwork skills from the year before. I am faster now and my footwork is way better now. I have been pushing myself. You have to be good with your footwork as a receiver. Playing slot going against the linebackers, I am good at the quick double moves getting them out of my way to get open.”
Going into recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“North Dakota, Azusa Pacific, Puget Sound, and Northern Arizona are showing interest.”
This fall, have you taken any visits?
“Yes. I went to Azusa Pacific on an unofficial visit. I met with the coaches, went to the game, and took a tour.”
What were your lasting impression of the visit?
“What impressed me is how good they are. They are a really good team and have a really good program. I did research on them and the school. I was impressed with the school education wise and with the program, and it is close by.”
Looking ahead, are you going to play any other sports for Warren?
“I will compete in track.”
Which events?
“The long jump, 100, and 200.”
With the offseason here, what workouts will you continue to do to stay sharp and in shape?
“I want to keep my speed up, I will keep doing speed workouts and I will stay in the weight room.”
You excel on the field and in the classroom with a 3.0 cumulative GPA and a 1300 SAT scored. What are your favorite classes?
“I like science classes. I like science and history. I am taking a government class this year; I have learned a lot about our government. I am also taking a Principles of Bio Med class, that is about criminal cases. We go over how this person died, what they ate last, and some of the forensics of the case.”
When the time comes, what would you like to major in once in college?
“Criminology. I do want to be a detective. I have been fascinated about solving crimes, finding clues, and solving the mystery.”
When will you find out about All-League honors?
“My coach told me on Friday, I made first team All-League as an athlete. I was surprised.”
That is fantastic. This might seem like a silly question, but what does it mean to you receiving this honor as voted upon by the other coaches in the San Gabriel Valley League?
“Without my teammates and coaches, I would not have received that. I give that to them but it makes me feel good.”
It should. Congratulations, again, Stephen. Thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming recruiting process.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Twitter/Austin family; Stephen Austin