Collinsville’s Austin Boren

For Austin Boren, football became more than just a game; it has been a journey of direction, progression, and persistent determination. Now an upcoming senior, Boren reflects on the countless moments and interactions that led him to this point with a forward focused approach.

He began playing football in second grade and as he continued into his role as starting quarterback, he gained insight as to his purpose on and off the field. “I grew up always being the quarterback and the glue guy,” he said.

“Leadership comes naturally to me.”

He shared that his pre-game routine is spent in the calm and quiet. “I speak positive thoughts out loud to myself,” he said. In pressure filled moments, he relies on grit and internal discipline. “I thrive under pressure.”  Introspection has allowed for sharpened focus and fueled confidence.

His time as quarterback has not always been without challenges. At the beginning of his sophomore year, he had to regain his favor as starting quarterback after he lost the position to a freshman. Through it all he persevered, and practicing night after night kept him prepared for the next opportunity to earn his way back. When the starting QB went out with an injury, Boren stepped up. “[I] brought us back to play in the playoffs.”

Boren says that this defining moment taught him valuable lessons in both preparation and patience.

He says the coaching staff at Collinsville High School have always placed their trust in him. “It really speaks volumes of our amazing coaching staff.”

Going into this next season with a younger team, Boren says he is enjoying the opportunity to build chemistry and set the tone. “We’re taking this summer seriously with getting to know each other and building a bond.”

As his time at Collinsville High School comes to a close, he hopes his legacy goes beyond talent and demonstrates one of connection and tenacity. “I was the glue guy. A guy that knew how to get others to rally around him, play high-quality football, and make big-time plays that lead to big-time wins.”

He states that after graduation he plans to go to college and further his education. “I’ll be playing college football while I get my degree in pre-dental or biology. After that I will be working my way into becoming an orthodontist.”

Austin Boren begins his final high school season ready to lead, to inspire, and to leave it all on the field with the poise and ambition of someone still pursuing more.