ABOUT AUSTIN HATCH

Austin Hatch is a two-time plane crash survivor, former member of the University of Michigan basketball team, and inspirational speaker.

On Labor Day of 2003, Austin and his family were flying home from their vacation home in northern Michigan. As they prepared to land, the aircraft crashed, bursting into flames. Austin’s dad was able to get he and Austin out of the plane but tragically, his mother, sister, and brother did not survive.

Austin and his father grieved their loss and pushed to overcome, as he knew his mom, sister, and brother would’ve wanted.

A year later, Austin’s dad met Kimberley. The couple married and creating a wonderful blended family. Meanwhile, Austin worked hard and began to have success on the basketball court. His dream was to play for Michigan. On June 15, 2011, Austin accepted Coach John Beilein’s offer of a full scholarship to play basketball at the university.

Nine days later, Austin, his father and “second mother,” (he never called Kimberley his “stepmom”), were flying to their vacation home to celebrate. As they prepared to land, the aircraft crashed, killing Austin’s parents on impact. Austin suffered such severe injuries that he was placed in a medically-induced coma for two months. After waking up, Austin learned how to walk, talk, eat, and live again. With the help of many, and against the odds, Austin persevered and eventually took the place at the university that was held for him.

Austin graduated from the University of Michigan in 2018 with a degree in organizational studies. He lives in Ann Arbor with his wife, Abby.
He shares his story of encouragement to help inspire others towards continuous improvement.