ARKANSAS TECH UNIVERSITY

ATHLETICS 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 14, 2008
 

TECH NAMES AUSTIN GWATNEY THIS WEEK'S
MALE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

RUSSELLVILLE, Arkansas – Arkansas Tech has named this week's male of athlete of the week Austin Gwatney (Sherwood, Ark.) of the Tech baseball team after he drove in the winning run in Saturday's 7-6 win over 21st ranked Ouachita Baptist at Tech Field.

Gwatney has had a very successful freshman season playing in the Wonder Boys outfield, at the plate, and on the base paths. Gwatney has used his speed to steal 13 bases this season for Tech. On March 21, in a game at Arkansas-Monticello, the Tech freshman stole six bases in one game. The six stolen bases are a school and Gulf South Conference record for steals in one game.

There should be plenty of excitement to come in the next few years out of this week's male athlete of the week.

The following is a question and answer segment to help get to know this successful Tech student-athlete:

Why did you ultimately choose to come to Tech?
Austin Gwatney: I like the fact that it is a small southern-style school. Plus it's only about a 45 minute drive from the house so I can go home easily if I need to. 

Outside of athletics, what is your favorite thing about college life?
AG: I would have to say having my own house where I can do what I want.

What is your favorite type of music/group?
AG: Ever since I first heard George Strait I have definitely been a big fan of country music.

What do you consider your hobby?
AG: I love to hunt and fish with my girlfriend, Katelynn, every chance I get.

What sport other than baseball do you like to watch or would you like to play the most?
AG: I guess football. It's not baseball, but if I had to pick...that would be it.

Who is one person that has had the biggest impact on your life?
AG: I would have to say my dad. He taught me most of what I know about baseball and how to play the game the right way.

What is your most memorable moment as a Tech athlete?
AG: My most memorable moment was when I broke the single game stolen base record against Arkansas-Monticello. I was pretty excited when coach told me on the bus ride home.

What would you do on your dream vacation?
AG: I would go to a beach somewhere and sit and do nothing all day.

What is your major at Tech?
AG: I'm a Wellness Science major right now but I'm not sure if that will stick. I would also like to go into Agricultural Business.

What do you plan to do after graduation?
AG: I plan to get a good job, get married, and start a life.

Do you have a pet?
AG: I have a dog named Sassy who stays in the yard. I've had her for about 12 years. I also have a horse named Moon.

How many times a day do you find yourself checking facebook?
AG: I'll have to admit that I check that at least once a day.

What's the most rewarding class you have had while being at Tech?
AG: Geography with Mr. Canerday was definitely the most rewarding. I loved going to his class which is something I can't say 99% of the time.

What are your goals for this season?
AG: Try to stay healthy and help our team do well in the post-season. It would be great to win the conference tournament and go all the way to the World Series.

                    Previous Tech Male Student-Athlete of the Week Winners

April 7 - senior quarterback Cole Barthel (football)
March 24 - senior pitcher Zach Weiss (baseball)
March 4 - junior forward Troy Marcus (basketball)
Feb. 20 - junior third baseman Tony Sanchez (baseball)
Feb. 20 - junior third baseman Tony Sanchez (baseball)