Scott Power- Daily Post Athenian

Like a lot of high school athletes looking for a place to call home the next four years, McMinn County High School track and cross country athlete Austin Wiseman wanted to find a college where he was comfortable.

Wiseman found that school practically next door at Tennessee Wesleyan College, where he will run both track and cross country for the Bulldogs.

"At first, I was looking to get away a little, but then I decided that if I went away, I wouldn't be able to come home very often," Wiseman said. "I also like the coaching staff at Wesleyan a lot. I wanted a school with a good running program and where we could hopefully win some races. Wesleyan had everything I was looking for."

Wiseman said he was considering Tennessee Tech, Bryan College and MTSU, but in the end, he decided to become a Bulldog.

For TWC Coach Shawn Jakubowski, landing Wiseman was a big part of his recruiting plans this year.

"I watched him a lot this year at various meets," Jakubowski said. "He's got a good build for long distance running and has a good work ethic. If you have those two things, the sky is the limit. I think he has a lot of potential to grow. He was probably my biggest recruit this year on the men's side."

At this point, Wiseman is set to compete in cross country and in the mile run in track. Later, he may run the 1500 and possibly the 5K.

But one thing is for certain, Wiseman will run.

"He will definitely run as a freshman," Jakubowski said. "He is the type of athlete that can make an impact early in his career, if he stays healthy."

Wiseman plans to be a coach and will likely pursue a degree in sports management.