Teachers have the opportunity to play a big role in the lives of their students. They do more than just teach a lesson or a class, they also can serve as an example for the student to look up to. Austin Lake is a sophomore at Commerce High School and he has a teacher that has made an impact on his life.
“Mr. James Pickens teaches Language Arts at Commerce,” Lake said. “He is a fantastic man and he has helped me become the young man I am today just by being the man he is in the classroom. I appreciate him and the example he sets.”
While Pickens has set an outstanding model for Lake to follow, Austin has a few other people that have also had an influence on his life.
“My dad, grandpa, and all of my football coaches have also been influential in my life,” he stated. “They have all been there for me and good examples for me in sports and just life in general. They are outstanding role models.”
Austin is a multisport athlete at Commerce, playing football, basketball, baseball, running track, and also competing in powerlifting. As an underclassman, he looks to continue to work hard and continue to improve.
“I’m definitely not satisfied with where I’m at in my sports career,” he stated. “Where I am standing right now comes with a lot of hard work and countless hours of grinding. I’m not done yet. I will continue to grind and work.”
Logan Cawyer is the head coach of the Commerce Tigers football team. He says that while Lake was put in to start as one of the younger guys on the team, he showed his potential during a solid first season.
“Austin started as a freshman quarterback last season,” coach Cawyer said. “He had about 900 yards passing and 600 yards rushing. He played really well for us in some big games. He’s a true dual threat and makes really good reads on offense.”
Throughout his athletic career, Austin has had some moments that has really enjoyed. But the first time he played as a varsity player is one of his favorites.
“My highlight moment would be my first ever touchdown in high school,” he said. “It was also my first varsity game and my first varsity start. It was a moment I would relive forever if I could.”
