Sports Spotlight — West Orange Times & Observer: Henry Austad

Junior Henry Austad is a triathlete in Foundation Academy’s athletic program. Between football, baseball and basketball, he excels on the field, the court and on the diamond. Sports — and playing football, in particular — runs in Austad’s family. His dad played football for the University of Central Florida, and his brother played football for Montverde Academy. He’s recently made quarterback for the First Team All-State 2A football team.  

How long have you been playing baseball, and how did you get started? 

I’ve really been playing since I was like 4 or 5. I probably (got started by) watching my brother play, and my dad coached (it). (That’s) probably what got me into it.

How long have you been playing football and basketball?

I’ve been playing football for probably just as long — maybe even a little bit longer — (than baseball). Basketball, I’ve been playing since I was about 7 or 8. 

How were the football and basketball seasons for you this year? 

Football went really well. We did pretty (well) this year. We made it to the regional championship game. We came up short, but we had a good season. For basketball, we did pretty (well). We made it to the district playoffs.

What game do you look forward to the most this baseball season?

(The game against) Legacy (Charter), because that’s who we lost to in the playoffs last year. Hopefully, we get some redemption.

Out of the three sports you play, which do you like most and why?

Probably football, because I just like to hit. I like to be out there.

What aspect do you like most about baseball?

You can’t do it by yourself. You have to do it all as a team. One person can’t win the game for you.

What’s something you hope to improve on in baseball this year?

My fielding. I need to get a little bit better on that (and be) more clean at fielding, throwing and getting in quick.

What’s your favorite baseball team?

My favorite team for pros is probably the (Tampa Bay) Rays. I just always grew up watching them. We went to a game when I was a kid.

Tell me about your first home run. How old were you?

I was in minors. I just remember — I didn’t think I was going to do it, but it was really windy so — hitting it and it went over. I was really surprised. (I was) probably 10 or 11.

What are some achievements you’ve made? 

Academically, I have a 3.6 (GPA) right now, so I’m doing pretty decent in school. Athletically, I’d say I had Riddell Player of the Week for football this year, and in my sophomore year, I had MaxPreps Southeast Player of the Week.

How do you spend your free time?

(I like) hanging out with friends and family. I like to go swimming and stuff and go out on the boat.