ELKINS, W.Va. — Davis & Elkins College Athletics is proud to feature 2017 graduate Austin Pillado in its Alumni Spotlight series. A former member of the Senators men's swimming and track and field programs, Pillado has built a career in collegiate athletics and is currently serving as the associate head women's swimming coach at Washington State University.
Pillado, a native of South Florida, competed in swimming for all four years at Davis & Elkins and joined the track and field team as a senior under coach Jason Pyles. In the pool, he was coached by Nikki Rose. He majored in sports management with an emphasis in athletic training. Outside of athletics, he was active on campus as a member of the Sig Ep fraternity and worked in admissions as a tour guide.
"D&E was the best thing that happened to me," Pillado said. "I was able to grow into myself, put my head down and work hard, and create my own opportunities with the support of coaches and the athletic department. Being involved on campus and in the community helped me step outside of my comfort zone and take risks, which is something I still carry with me in my career."
Among his favorite memories as a Senator were home swim meets, including his senior year when the team turned a small event into a memorable experience together. He also recalls Code Red meets, where the swim team's energy was unmatched, and the tradition of the cannon being fired after victories. Another highlight was the annual Deja Vu event, which brought live music and performances to campus; during his senior year, the event featured Bryce Vine.
Now in his second season with Washington State, Pillado is applying lessons learned at D&E to mentoring the next generation of student-athletes. His advice for current Senators is to not fear failure.
"You don't have to get it right the first time — you just have to get it right one time," Pillado said. "Everyone is afraid of failing and wanting to be on top of things right away. But if you keep your head down and keep getting after it, good things will come."
The Alumni Spotlight series highlights Davis & Elkins graduates who have gone on to achieve success in their careers while reflecting on the impact of their time as Senators.
