Jackson Kelley '26 Recruiting Profile

Work hard, play hard, pray hard.  No whining. Take a risk every day.  Improvise, adapt and overcome (USMC).  These are the core values my family lives by.   I use these on and off the field to motivate,  improve my performance and elevate my game.  When I step on the field I feel a rush of adrenaline and I feel alive. I love competition and I find a way to succeed.  I am unique because I refuse to stop at 99% effort.  I have learned the difference between good and excellent is the extra 1%.  This level of consistency, hard work and risk is where champions are built.   Examples of my dedication include  earning Team Captain during Tormenta FC NPL team 2018/2019  as well as Team Captain for IMG Academy U14, U15, & U17 Elite MLS Next Teams.  I have played competitive soccer since the age of four on Select, NPL and currently MLS Next.  My natural athletic ability, competitive nature and leadership skills will make a positive impact on any team.

In competition, I play with passion and intensity to help my team succeed.  I've learned there is more value in struggling against a more skilled team than beating a less talented team.  The fight makes us stronger and elevates the game whether a win or a loss. I believe in working hard to be the exception to the norm.  This applies on and off the field where being challenged motivates me to reach my full potential as an athlete and a student. My goal is to find a college where I can reach my full potential athletically and academically. I am confident my skills will be asset to any team competing for an NCAA Championship.