Austin Sprague, My Role Model (Written March 2017)

It's a real shame I don't have more pictures with this awesome guy, Austin Sprague (that's gonna have to change very soon). In case you didn't know, he's been blowing up Instagram recently with a new thoughtful, tradition he's started for Lent in which he expresses gratitude for many of his closest friends and family members. I think it's terrific, and it's about time someone repay him for his kindness.

 

Anyway, I could go on forever about Austin's good qualities and all of the great memories I've shared with him. To begin, he's got a work ethic that is truly unmatched! I remember admiring the intensity and effort he gave in workouts back in high school. That drive has certainly paid off with some incredibly fast races for him over the years. In fact, Austin set the example for hard work that has been ingrained in me ever since. Additionally, Austin is one of the most faithful people I know. I can't even count the number of times I have seen him kneel down and pray before a gutsy race. His love for God is inspiring. Furthermore, Austin is a natural-born leader. I remember after every bad race I had in high school (and there were a lot of them), he would always be there to pick me up and show me compassion. He has always believed in me and my ability to do better. And coming from him, that means the world. That same sense of support has carried over into his time in college, where he continues to motivate his teammates to push their limits every day with words of encouragement and affirmation. Like I said, I could continue like this nonstop. But I won't, for the sake of not making this unbearably long. 

To conclude, I don't know where I'd be without Austin. He's a man of discipline, faith, and encouragement, among a variety of other positive characteristics. I'm sure anyone else that knows him would agree with me and attest to the impact he's made in their lives. I can't even put into words how thankful I am that we are reunited as teammates at the University of Georgia. I can't wait to experience and enjoy all of the memorable moments I'm expecting in the coming years. I'm beyond blessed to call you one of my dearest friends and most influential mentors. 

Don't ever change who you are, Austin Sprague!