Red Wolves - IU East

Drew Houck received the Indiana University East athletics Champions of Character Award for the 2011-12 school year.

The student-athlete who best exemplifies the NAIA's five core character values receives the "IU East Champions of Character Award."

Houck (Portland, Ind./Jay County High School) recently completed his freshman season with the Red Wolves men's golf program.

"God has put something unique in this young man," said IU East coach Von Ebeling. "He possesses a clean heart and is determined to conduct his business the right way."

He competed in three spring tournaments and earned Academic All-Kentucky Intercollegiate Athletic Conference honors.

He frequently volunteered at the Jay Community Center in Portland. He assisted with the center's youth basketball league and helped renovate a room for use as a dance and exercise room.

He also volunteers at a food bank in Portland.

"It comes back to my relationship with God and my faith," Houck said. "It's not about me. If I can help others out and do things in a positive manner, that's what I should be doing."

Houck played the role of Good Samaritan when he came upon the scene of an auto accident on U.S. Highway 27 this past October. He helped a woman away from her burning car to safety.

"Unlike the movies, where the car explodes at the climax of the save, Drew assessed the situation and selflessly helped the accident victim to safety," Ebeling said.

Houck finished his freshman season with an average of 88 strokes per 18 holes.

Ebeling said Houck maintained a positive outlook during good rounds and rough rounds on the golf course.

"I've seen him struggle but his easygoing, relaxed attitude has shown me how even-tempered he truly is," Ebeling said. "I foresee this bright and talented student athlete continuing to genuinely impact those in the college community at Indiana University East and our opponents at competitions in a positive way."

The NAIA's five core values are integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.

"It was a fun first year, and I'm honored to have this award," Houck said.

Pick up the July 15 edition of the Richmond Palladium-Item for a poster page honoring IU East's 2011-12 athletics award winners.