LCCVI graduate Core Jackson has won one of the most prestigious sports awards for high school students in Lambton.

The Wyoming teen has been honoured with the Stefanko Award.

Jackson’s first love is baseball. He committed to the University of Nebraska for a baseball scholarship and was one of a handful of Central Lambton athletes who played for the Great Lake Canadians. In a blog post from the Canadian Premier Baseball League, Jackson talked about his decision to accept the offer to play in the US.

“Nebraska was exactly what I was looking for. I always wanted to go to a Power Five school and Nebraska was offering everything that I wanted. I was very impressed with the coaching staff there and also the amazing facilities. Adam Stern was also a big part in my decision to go to Nebraska as he attended there.”

He credits his parents for helping him get to this point, acknowledging their sacrifice in helping him achieve his dreams.

“The biggest influence of my baseball career would have to be my parents. They have been with me every step of the way. They have always given me the opportunity to play ball at the highest level. They have made many sacrifices so that I can try and live out my dream of playing professional baseball.”

Jackson looks forward to what’s to come.

“I love the game and just want to play it every day.”

The Stefanko Award recognizes excellence in sports and the community. In a news release, the Lambton-Kent District School Board Director of Education, John Howitt says; “Core understands the importance of balancing academics and athletics, having received academic honours and athlete of the year awards throughout his secondary career.

“A team player, Core participated in volleyball, badminton, basketball and baseball during high school. Core was able to lead by example, both in his game play, but also in motivating his teammates to work together and perform at their best.”

Hannah Elliott of Northern Collegiate has also received the Stefanko Award. “She has excelled in the classroom and in all athletic activities that she has been involved in throughout high school, including basketball, volleyball and track and field. A driven and committed athlete, Hannah has opted to train with a provincial rowing program. She has been a valued member of the peer mentorship program at the school and is a leader amongst her peers and youth alike, including supporting young athletes as a basketball camp counsellor.”