Austin Potter, a former Buffalo High standout, has become one of The Arena League’s most prolific receivers. Potter, who is from the Ozarks, took an unconventional path to professional football.

From High School to the Army National Guard

Potter was a four-year letterman at Buffalo High and worked at the local Dairy Queen during his teens. He generated Division II recruiting interest but decided not to play in college, instead joining the Army National Guard after his 2014 high school graduation.

Potter’s time in the Army National Guard included nine-month rotations in the Middle East. In 2021, he got the urge to play football again and joined a local 8-man semi-pro outdoor football team, the Missouri Monarchs, that adhered to arena rules.

Breaking into The Arena League

Potter’s toughness and versatility translated well to the arena game. He was initially a member of the Ozarks Lunkers practice squad but had to balance his football career with his 10-year marriage, three young children, and position with the Army National Guard.

After a brief retirement, Potter was offered a contract and a firm position on the Lunkers’ 19-man roster. He has since blossomed into one of The Arena League’s most prolific receivers, with multiple hat tricks in recent games.

Potter, who lives in Fair Grove, takes pride in being a local product on a team with players from around the country. He hopes his unconventional path to professional football inspires others.

Original reporting: Springfield Daily Citizen — read the source article.