A lot of superlatives fit Austin Collins.
The Bronson senior is a natural leader, a team player, a loyal Bronson Eagle, and is matured well beyond his 18 years.
He’s also a Renaissance Man, as he juggles varying areas of pursuit – brewer, trainer, builder, musician – with potential career stakes in any of them.
But the label he wears the best – and proudest – is his newest: state champion.
On April 6, at Arnold High School in Panama City Beach, Collins became just the third Bronson Eagle on record to win an individual state title in any sport, as he prevailed in the 238-pound weight division to claim a Class 1A boys weightlifting crown.
It was his third straight trip to the state finals, and he could feel this one was his for the taking.
“I knew going in this year that I was at least in the top 3,” the senior said.
Collins posted a bench press of 385 and a clean and jerk of 295, giving him a combined tally of 680 pounds.
It wasn’t even a personal record for Collins – his best bench press is 395. But it was enough.