Jackson Casey has been an integral part of the Morris High School football team for the past four years. “I’ve been playing since I was in kindergarten, but I started tackling in second grade,” Jackson recalled. Now a senior, he’s a seasoned veteran, having earned a starting spot on the varsity squad since his freshman year.
Football runs in his family, with his father playing an inspiring role in his journey. “My dad played in high school, and I wanted to be like him. I even tried to wear his number,” Jackson shared, adding that football icons like Aaron Rodgers and Peyton Manning also fueled his passion for the sport. Though he’s not a quarterback, Jackson has found his place on the offensive line, where he now plays left guard after previously being the team’s center.
This season hasn’t gone exactly how the team hoped, but Jackson is confident in their ability to turn things around. “The team feels more like a team this year than ever,” he said.
Jackson has had his share of challenges, particularly as a freshman when he struggled with snapping at center. “I snapped two safeties, and gosh, it was awful,” he admitted. But through extra work and guidance from his dad and coaches, Jackson turned things around, reclaiming his spot and growing into a vital player on the team.
One of his proudest moments was winning the first-ever Walker Cup, a game played in honor of coach John Walker, a beloved figure in the Morris community. “It was really an emotional moment for the community and the team,” he recalled.
Coaches and family member have shaped Jackson: I would like to thank my parents for constantly supporting me, never bringing me down after tough losses and always being by my side even when times were tough. And I would like to thank my coaches for never giving up on me even when I was at my lowest as a player.”
Looking ahead, Jackson hopes to continue his football journey in college and dreams of one day coaching. “I don’t see myself ever leaving football,” he said.
