Fairview High School’s Alex Houk
Fairview senior Alex Houk approaches football and life with a clear purpose rooted in faith, discipline and community.
“Jesus Christ, He is my savior and everything I do I want to be more like Jesus,” Houk said.
A rising 12th grader, Houk has become a key contributor for Fairview as a running back and outside linebacker. While he thrives on offense, he admits the defensive side of the ball presents a steeper learning curve.
“OLB is a lot more difficult for me since I haven’t been playing it for as long, and it’s a lot to learn,” he said.
Houk’s dedication to improvement reflects a mindset shaped by both athletics and everyday life. He spends much of his free time working on his family’s farm, taking on whatever tasks need to be done. That work ethic carries directly onto the field.
“Nothing is ever going to be given to you,” Houk said. “If you want to be successful in life you have to lower your head and get to work.”
One of his standout moments came early in the season when preparation met opportunity.
“My favorite memory was probably the first game of the year whenever I was blessed to run for over 300 yards and had five touchdowns on about 14 carries,” he said.
While individual success stands out, Houk places greater value on the relationships built through the program.
“The brotherhood and how close each and every one of us are to each other,” he said. “I know I could call anyone on the team and they would have my back just like I would have theirs.”
That bond is something he actively contributes to, especially in the moments leading up to kickoff.
“I sit in my locker alone to get my mind right, then I start walking around and getting the energy started for the whole team,” Houk said.
Some of his most memorable experiences have come in unusual circumstances. During a district championship game against Cashion, a sudden disruption forced the team into an unexpected situation.
“The lights went out with about a minute left,” Houk said. “We had to drive to Crescent, which is about 30 minutes away, to go finish the football game.”
Off the field, Houk is equally involved in school and community activities. He participates in Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and youth programs. He also gives back by coaching a kindergarten through second-grade football team and helping officiate youth games.
Houk credits former teammate Boden Miller as someone who left a lasting impact.
“After every touchdown, no matter how far, he would always sprint as fast as he could to go celebrate with me,” Houk said. “It meant so much to always have him cheering me on.”
In the classroom, Houk enjoys history, though he points to science teacher Coach Hoetzel as his favorite educator.
“He always keeps it fun in his classroom, and the energy is always there,” Houk said.
Houk also appreciates the strong support system surrounding Fairview athletics. He said the community’s encouragement is felt far beyond the field.
“Sometimes I go to a restaurant and someone will pay for my meal because they recognize me,” he said. “They always show up to every game no matter how far.”
For Houk, that connection between team, school and community reinforces everything he values — faith, hard work and relationships — as he prepares for his final season.
