Interview with Henry Jackson:
A Young Athlete's Journey
What's your name? What's your age and grade?
Henry Jackson, 10, heading into 5th grade.
How long have you lived in the neighborhood, and what do you like best about it?
I've lived in the neighborhood my whole life. I love how close it is to downtown Naperville and how many fun stores there are.
Can you tell us about the sport or sports you're involved in? Are you part of a team? What position do you play, if applicable?
I play soccer for Evolution Soccer Club and for the Naperville Park District Premier league. I mostly play striker, but sometimes outside mid. I swim for Naper Carriage Hill Swim Team and am a member of the MMTT Triathlon Team.
When did you start playing, and what inspired you to pursue this sport (or sports)? Do you have any sports idols or role models?
I started playing soccer when I was 4 and started swimming when I was 8. This is my first year on the triathlon team. My mom was a soccer player and encouraged me to play because she loved it so much. My brother is a swimmer and swims for a club team called Mavericks. My soccer idol is Messi, my swimming idol is Michael Phelps, and my triathlon idol is Ben Kanute. They are all amazing athletes and have worked really hard to achieve their success.
Tell us about your favorite moment, memory, or milestone thus far in your athletic journey.
My favorite soccer memory was winning the Woodridge Fall Festival Tournament with my Evolution Team. I scored 5 goals that weekend and loved helping my team win. My favorite swimming memory was at a meet last week when my goggles fell down around my nose, but I kept swimming and got a qualifying time for the City Championship Meet. My favorite triathlon memory was when I got 3rd place in my first-ever triathlon. It was incredibly hard, but worth all the effort.
How do you balance schoolwork and sports commitments?
I try to get my work done at school when I can, or I try to do it right away after school so that I can focus on practice.
Are there any specific values or life lessons you’ve gained from your involvement in sports?
I've learned to never give up, even when faced with tough situations. I've also learned that not every day will be your best, but you can always give 110% effort.
Have any coaches or mentors played a significant role in your athletic development?
Coach Martin (Evolution) and Coach Andy (Premier) have taught me so much and they have continuously encouraged me for soccer. Coach Brian and Coach Luke have been awesome for swim. And Coach Eric has been great and has made triathlon training really fun.
What are your future goals and aspirations, in sports and beyond?
I would love to play soccer and swim in high school and college. I'd love to continue competing in triathlons as well. I'd like to go to school to be an engineer, but I'd like to play soccer and swim for as long as possible even beyond college.
What advice would you give other aspiring young athletes in the neighborhood?
Never give up, even when it gets hard. And let your teammates support you and lift you up.
Henry Jackson’s dedication to his sports and his thoughtful approach to balancing school and athletics serve as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the support of a loving community.