- Apr 20, 2022

Crystal Lake South Class Of 2023 Defender Declan Jackson Talks Gator Football & More

By: Peter "Coach Big Pete" Leinweber

So, in a way to better understand the use of Deep Dish Football for Illinois recruits and the whole entire IHSA Football scene. Decided to do player profiles of players who you might not know or you might know, but you should respect them for their roles on their respective teams. This is one of the many reasons why Deep Dish Football is respected in the IHSA. Every Football Player Has A Story To Tell

Declan Jackson Athlete Defender Crystal Lake South 6'2 180 Class of 2023

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Declan Jackson how was your junior season?

My junior year provided a unique opportunity to learn and develop under a new defensive coordinator and defensive line coach. Their insight, direction, and coaching techniques allowed me to grow as a player and be challenged along the way.

What does football mean to you?

Football is a chance to step onto a game field, practice field, into a drill, and compete. Football is a chance to push myself to the limits and know inside that I will keep pushing myself until my opponent quits. I have played football and live life remembering the words of Nick Saban:

“Live by the creed that a strong work ethic, playing by the rules, and doing things the right way will bring about opportunities for success and, ultimately, happiness.”

What was your favorite memory from last season?

After the challenges and adversity that we faced during the season, we came together for each other, played our hearts out and beat a mighty Huntley team. This win gave Crystal Lake South football a chance to compete in the IHSA playoffs.

What do you feel is your strongest trait on the football field?

My ability to motivate my teammates to push themselves to be the best they can be. Through communication, playing at my best level, and encouraging them, we all step our games up. This has come from the determination I have gained from the injury I sustained in 8th which could have kept me off the field completely, I relied on my family and friends as I pushed myself to regain the ability to play and step on the field as a Crystal Lake South Gator.

What part of your game do you plan on working on in the offseason?

I am going to work on my agility and strength training in hopes I can be versatile enough to play LB and stand-up DE.

What would you like college coaches to know about you?

I strive to be the best player I can be, do the things needed to compete on and on the field. But football goes beyond me as an individual, it is being a part of a football family that works together, competes together, and in doing those things wins together. I truly believe that family over everything mentality is what makes a great team and pushes me to be my best.

What goals do you have for yourself this upcoming season?

Start at either DE or LB, compete in leading the team in tackles. I want to develop as a leader for the team. As a senior it is important to be able to mentor the younger players by being a positive role model.

How does Crystal Lake South look for the upcoming season?

I believe we can grow and develop from the success we had last year. The offseason work the team is putting in and the focus we have as a team, we will be able to compete against anyone on our schedule. The goal is to improve on last year’s record and make a run into the IHSA playoffs.