Austin first stepped onto the field at just five years old, inspired by his family's love for athletics. With a mother who played college sports and a father who was both an athlete and coach, staying active was simply part of life. What began as something that looked “cool and exciting” quickly became something more meaningful. Over time, he developed an appreciation for the physicality, mental focus, and discipline the sport demands, along with the personal growth that comes from striving toward both individual and team goals. 

Spending his early years in Georgia and South Carolina, Saturdays were often spent watching college football, especially the Georgia Bulldogs. Like many young athletes, Austin imagined himself on the field, but by eighth grade, that dream began to feel within reach. Recognizing his potential and the level of commitment required, he made a conscious decision to pursue the sport at the next level with consistency and focus. That dedication paid off. When the opportunity came to play at Carroll College in Helena, Montana, the moment stood apart from other offers he had received. It was not just about athletics or academics, but about fit. After visiting campus, Austin was drawn to the program’s emphasis on player development, the strong sense of community, and a shared work ethic among coaches and teammates. Combined with the opportunity to pursue his academic goals, the decision felt aligned on every level.

At Carroll, Austin will focus on playing defensive back, a position he has grown to connect with most over the years. Known for requiring discipline, confidence, and quick decision making, the role suits both his physical abilities and his mindset. Whether reacting in real time or facing one-on-one challenges, he values the intensity and focus the position demands. That same mindset carries into his academic pursuits. Austin plans to study engineering, drawn to its problem-solving nature and hands on application. His interest in STEM began early, from participating in competitions to working with robotics, and has continued to grow through his academic experiences. For him, the ability to think critically and apply solutions has always been both challenging and rewarding.

Balancing athletics and academics has been a central part of his journey, supported by a strong foundation at home. Austin credits his family as his backbone, consistently encouraging him to pursue opportunities and maintain high standards in both areas. From traveling long distances for camps and training to emphasizing the importance of education, their support has been constant. That encouragement has led to a significant milestone, earning his associate degree from Cascadia College the day before receiving his high school diploma.

His path has also been shaped by key mentors and teachers along the way. One of those influences came during his junior year, when he moved to a new state and faced the challenge of adjusting to a new environment. His chemistry teacher, Mr. Travis Birse, played an important role during that transition. 

“When I first met Tre, he had a quiet confidence about him. As a student he would show up to class and take care of business. He was a truly kind and hard-working young man who collaborated well with everyone," says Birse. "As for Tre as an athlete, I could see the other football players looking up to him and it was evident why. He brings intensity to the game and a work ethic that reflect natural leadership. He elevates the people and teammates that are around him simply by being himself. Tre’s determination and discipline will take him wherever he decides to go in life, and anywhere he goes will be better for him being there.”

As he looks ahead to the next four years, Austin approaches the future with the same mindset that has guided him so far--steady growth, consistent effort, and a willingness to push beyond his comfort zone. He plans to continue developing his game while staying focused academically, understanding that the work he puts in now will shape the opportunities ahead.

For younger athletes with similar goals, his advice is simple but clear. Be consistent. In his experience, consistency is what separates those who are good from those who are great, both in training and in the classroom. For Austin, the journey to this point has been built on years of preparation, support, and determination. Now, as he prepares to take the next step at Carroll College, that same foundation will carry forward into everything that comes next.