Bald Knob High School’s Austin Fisher is a member of this year’s 501 Football Team, sponsored by Conway Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank. (Mike Kemp photo)

by Levi Gilbert

Bald Knob currently sits on the outside looking in at the sixth spot in the 2-4A, but with two games remaining, the Bulldogs control their own destiny in their first year of moving up to 4A. That’s just how Austin Fisher likes it. 

“With the way things are looking, we could finish up third place if we win the rest of our games,” Fisher said. “We just have to keep our minds right. 4A football is a different level of play from 3A. We have to keep our focus and eyes on the prize.”

Fisher, a senior offensive and defensive lineman for Bald Knob, was selected to this year’s 501 Football Team — 28 players representing all 11 counties of the 501. The team, sponsored by Conway Ortho and Sports Medicine Center, Conway Regional Health System and First Security Bank, boasts the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the field. Fisher was nominated by his head coach, Randy Johnston. 

“Austin is a three-year starter on both the offensive and defensive lines,” Johnston said. “His experience and leadership are big assets for us on the field. Austin has a 4.26 GPA. He has that because he works hard in class and cares about his work. He is a great example to everyone around him.”

Fisher is focused on rallying his teammates for a must-win game this Friday against Central Arkansas Christian. The Mustangs currently sit in fourth place.

“It just comes down to focus and execution,” Fisher said. “Finishing long drives on offense and just staying focused during key moments during the game will be crucial. Our defense does good at giving our offense good field position and gets us the ball back when we need it.

“We have had to overcome some injuries at key spots. One of our inside linebackers, two offensive linemen and our starting running back have been fighting injuries all year.”

Fisher is a multi-sport athlete for the Bulldogs — he also plays baseball and throws shot put. In his free time, he enjoys hunting and riding four-wheelers — “really anything outdoors.” 

“Austin is a member of our student council and participates in a number of community service activities,” Johnston said. “One of the projects he works on is helping out at the humane society with animals.”

At school, Fisher is also involved in Beta Club and Fellowship of Christian Athletes and serves as class treasurer. 

Fisher leads the Bald Knob Bulldogs (4-4, 2-3) at home against CAC at 7 p.m. Friday.