All-state recognition sits at the top of Gunner Jackson’s list as his senior season approaches at Navajo High School.
“That’s a big personal goal for me this season,” Jackson said.
That goal is shared within a group that has grown closer over time. “Our guys have really come together this last season, and we are working harder than ever,” he said.
What has changed most is the mindset. “The biggest improvement I’ve seen from my team this year is our mentality,” Jackson said. “In the past, we’ve struggled with keeping our heads on straight, but we have really turned the corner.”
Those changes have raised expectations. “Our team goals this year are to make it back to the state tournament and go further this time,” he said. “We are playing multiple games a week and practicing every day. We even have guys working out on their own after hours.”
That commitment has strengthened the team’s foundation. “Our biggest strength right now is definitely how close we all are to each other,” Jackson said. “No one is left out and when someone is struggling there is always someone right there to pick them up.”
Versatility has been a key part of Jackson’s role. “I have, at times, played all infield positions but primarily second base, shortstop and pitching,” he said.
At the plate, preparation starts with observation. “When reading a defense, the main thing I look for is the third baseman or first baseman,” Jackson said, “because you never know when you’ll be able to sneak a bunt for a hit.”
Confidence defines his approach once the game begins. “My mindset when fielding is always that I want the ball to be hit to me because I know I can make any play I need to,” Jackson said. “When hitting, my approach is to catch a fastball early and hit to the opposite field.”
Legacy matters just as much as results. “I want to be remembered as the guy who worked hard on and off the field,” he said. “Who always puts others first.”
Much of that work happens quietly. “There is a lot of work put in on the side that many people don’t see,” Jackson said. “I would be willing to bet we have guys practicing multiple times a day every day during the season and in the off season.”
One moment stands above the rest. “Going to state that first time with my brothers,” he said.
Jackson is a 6-foot-1 senior batting .358 who plays basketball and baseball at Navajo High School in Altus. “I plan to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue a bachelor’s degree in exercise science,” he said, “then later a doctorate in physical therapy.”
