Former Katy resident tests his mettle

"The ocean was our running water, there was no choice between hot and cold," said Hantz. [...] he had some expert advice from former Survivor contestant and uncle, Russell Hantz of Dayton. Ignoring his uncle's comments, the younger Hantz created a tape he calls "Survivor Texas" in which he goes around the backyard in an industrial jumper suit, shooting at coconuts and darting around drainage tunnels. Lynne Spillman handles casting for Survivor and said that Hantz' audition tape sealed the deal because she said it was so hilarious. Hantz's Uncle Russell also saw the video and loved it, but still felt that the name Hantz would hinder his nephew from winning the game. While shooting the show in Samoa, Hantz worried that his name might make him a target. [...] although Hantz wouldn't reveal if he had to eat any creepy crawlies while there, he admitted that when you are hungry you will eat anything. Hantz hopes that his experience on Survivor will influence other young people.