Sportsmanship

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Jackson Rodgers

Edwardsville Liberty

Principal: Mrs. Beth Crumbacher

Jackson Rodgers is the Scholar Attitude Award winner for Board of Directors Division O. He was selected for the honor based on his exemplary academic record, participation in interscholastic activities, and passion for success.

Jackson is an honor roll student and participates in baseball, basketball, track and field, Media Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Participating in several sports helped Jackson cope with a tough situation last spring when he fell and broke his wrist during his hurdles event at a sectional track meet. In spite of a broken wrist, Jackson finished all his events and even qualified for state in the 4x400 meter relay. “Participating in track helped me cope with not being able to play baseball by giving me something to work for, which was the state track meet,” he says.

Coming from a military family, Jackson is most proud of being selected to participate in a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Of more than 300 seventh grade students at his school, Jackson was one of four selected for the honor, which took place during a week-long school trip. “I am proudest of this event because I got to honor my school, family, and country in a ceremony that I will never forget,” he says.

After high school, Jackson plans to follow in the footsteps of several members of his family by enlisting in the Illinois Air National Guard. This path will give him the opportunity to serve his country and help pay for his college tuition at the University of Illinois. He’d like to pursue a career in sports medicine. “I have a passion for sports and would love to help injured athletes once my playing days are over.”

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