Austin O'Connor was a four-time Illinois High School Association state champion for St. Rita of Cascia High School and compiled a career record of 181-4. He became the 15th four-time state champion in Illinois history.

He was named Class AAA Outstanding Wrestler in 2017 and was a four-time Dvorak Champion, twice earning Outstanding Wrestler honors. Austin was a four-time Chicago Catholic League champion and the Chicago Catholic League Lawless Award winner for the Outstanding Senior Wrestler. He was a four-time champion at both the Illini Classic and the Cheesehead Invitational, earning Outstanding Wrestler at both.

Austin forged success in the international styles earning Fargo Nationals All-American honors with a second-place finish in Junior Greco-Roman in 2015, a third-place finish in Cadet Greco-Roman in 2014 and a fifth-place finish in Cadet Freestyle in 2014. He also placed third in United World Wrestling Junior Freestyle.

Austin began wrestling as a 4-year old for the Lockport Gator Wrestling Club. As a member of the Tinley Park Bulldogs, he won five Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation State Titles.

Austin's community involvement includes working in community cleanups and as a volunteer coach with the local kids wrestling club.