Q&A with Austin Powell Arkansas State Commit

August 27, 2015

By: Zac Bottoms
Prep Baseball Report

As we move into the fall more players are making their commitments. I had time to talk with 2016 C Austin Powell from Star City about the recruiting process and his commitment to Arkansas State University.

PBR: Ultimately, why did you choose Arkansas State University?

Powell: I was having a difficult time making my decision. I was playing in a tournament in Joplin Missouri this summer with my travel team and we had seen on Twitter where Tigh Dickenson had left Arkansas State to accept a job in Florida. I sent Coach Raffo a text to confirm and he didn't answer back. The next day he showed up and told me he didn't want to answer those questions through text or phone calls that he wanted to speak face to face concerning the coaching move. This decision by him let me know that he really has the character of the type person that I want to be under for the next four years. He is a great Christian man whom I believe will instill this in his players. I also plan on going into physical therapy and Arkansas State has that program in place.

PBR: Where did they first see you compete?

Powell: When I was 14 I went to a team USA tryout at their facility and coach Raffo told me at that time he would be following me. I was also in front of them at the Extra Innings Showcase. They also came to one of my High School game against Pine Bluff High at Star City.

PBR: When did you take your first official or unofficial visit to Arkansas State University?

Powell: June 5th after they had seen me compete at the PBR Top Prospects Games.

PBR: What role do the coaches expect you to play your first year on campus?

Powell: They expect me to come in and catch mid-week games my freshman year.

PBR: What other schools were you considering?

Powell: I had been offered by Memphis and Crowder Community College.

PBR: Who did you play for this summer? Talk about your experience playing for them?

Powell: I have played for the Rawlings Prospects since the age of 14. My play was limited this summer due to an injury which I am thankful to say is healing and will be fully recovered in three weeks.

PBR: Who has had the biggest impact on you as a baseball player?

Powell: My parents have always been there for me and supported me every step of the way. I had a coach at the age of 12 named Jamie Hill from Morrilton whom helped drive my passion for the game. He showed me how the game is supposed to be played and this helped jumpstart my career. I also have to give a lot of credit to my catching instructor Tommy Jester who is the best in the business in my opinion.

PBR: What were your stats for your High School last spring?

Powell: 3hr, 2 triples 12 doubles .480 batting average with 45 RBI. 1000 fielding percentage behind the plate.

Q&A with Austin Powell Arkansas State Commit

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