When a high school athlete steps onto the field or court to compete, they are playing for more than themselves. They are also representing their school and community and that is something that Jackson Poage does not take lightly.
“It means the world to me to perform for my community,” he said. “ They give so much back to the teams I play on and our school that it means the world to be able to work for them and give back to them in the form of wins, achievements, and accolades.”
Jackson is in his senior year at Duncan High School, where he is part of the football and baseball teams. He is also a member of the Student Council, Superintendent Advisory Council, the National Honor Society, and the school’s Internship Program.
Poage is thankful for the teammates that he is able to compete alongside. He says that they are great guys that are working to get better.
“I enjoy working the most with Eli Rameriez,” he said. “His work ethic is unmatchable and is always willing to put in the extra work. The least appreciated teammate on my team is Preston Giles. After having a tough injury his sophomore year he came back stronger than ever and performs and outworks anyone.”
When game day rolls around, Jackson and his teammates are ready to compete against whomever is on the schedule. But he has one team that he likes to beat the most.
“Beating Elgin always feels really good because they are a competitive team in our district,” he stated.
There have been people throughout his life that have helped shape him into the player and person that he is today.
“One of my biggest influences is my football coach, Matt Terry,” he said. “He has taught me some of the best life lessons on and off the field and has been a role model of a leader. Another is my baseball coach, Randy Smith. His determination and work ethic is unlike any coach and rubs off on us players and makes us want to be great. My biggest teacher influence was my Mr. Sam Holthe. He was my Algebra teacher and would show up with a smile everyday ready to teach us with passion.”
As his senior year winds down, Poage already has his eye on his future.
“I am committed to Murray State College to play baseball,” he said. “I am extremely thankful and blessed to play baseball at the next level.”
