Justin's Story

Justin M. Welch graduated from Apex High School in 2004, where he left a lasting legacy as a standout student-athlete. A ten-time varsity letterman, Justin earned three letters in football, three in wrestling, and four in track and field.

In football, he was named All-Conference and Team Offensive Player of the Year during his junior year. As a senior, his accolades included:

  • All-Conference

  • Tri-Seven Conference Offensive Player of the Year

  • Apex High School Team MVP

  • All-State Ironman Ranking

  • All-American Power Ranking

  • PrepStar Magazine All-Region Team

  • NCHSFootball.com Preseason Elite 101

  • iHigh.com Super Seniors for North Carolina

  • NCHSAA All-State Team Honorable Mention

  • Apex Legacy’s Class of 2004 Male Athlete of the Year

Justin also earned All-Conference honors in both wrestling and track. In track and field, he was named Conference Field Event MVP and Team Field Event MVP, and was a regional qualifier in the shot put and discus. Each spring, he was awarded the Off-Season Winners' Circle distinction based on “Bigger, Faster, Stronger” performance standards.

Over his junior and senior football seasons, Justin rushed for a combined 2,323 yards and scored 18 touchdowns.

Justin excelled not only in athletics but also in character. Known for his quick smile, warm sense of humor, and willingness to help others, he truly embodied the spirit of a student-athlete.

Later in life, Justin was diagnosed with a heart condition and faced numerous health challenges. In February 2021, he received a heart transplant, but ultimately passed away from heart failure on September 21, 2022, at the age of 36.

The Justin M. Welch Memorial Scholarship has been established by his family to honor his legacy. This scholarship recognizes student-athletes who demonstrate sportsmanship, teamwork, and excellence both on the field and in the classroom.