HARROD, Ohio — Allen East senior Jackson Thompson has been a steady force for the Mustangs, excelling on the football field, the golf course, and the baseball diamond.

The Mustang brings that same dedication to the classroom, maintaining a 4.11 GPA.

"He's a very hard-working individual. He really is a perfectionist with his craft. He really focuses in on the small details as well, and I think he really tries to get the most out of himself as he can," said Allen East baseball head coach Tyler Stevens.

Whether he's competing in football, baseball, or golf, Jackson thrives when the stakes are high.

"I'll say just by playing those sports, it allows me to develop discipline, leadership, and a competitive drive, and being able to play those sports all year round just allows me to challenge myself," Thompson said.

Stevens added, "I think he has to remain focused at all times, and he's constantly staying busy. And I think for kids this young, I think it's a positive thing for them to be involved in as many things as they possibly can be involved with, and to get the most out of themselves as they can."

Jackson's hard work isn't just for sports — he carries that same focus into the classroom, earning a 4.11 GPA.

"When Jackson is in, he's all in. He doesn't go part way. He's that first kid to raise his hand to try to answer the question. And he's a leader, not just when he's on the field, but he's also a leader in the classroom, and I think he became aware of that in the last couple of years, and it's really improved who he is and how he carries himself," said Allen East social studies teacher Tim Montgomery.

Looking ahead, Jackson plans to continue playing baseball in college while pursuing a pre-med degree with the goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon — a path shaped by his experiences on the field.

"In my athletic career, I've had many injuries, and I would just love to give back to injured athletes and know in the end of the day that I'm helping someone continue to play the sport they love," Thompson said.

Jackson Thompson isn't just a talented athlete — he's a teammate and classmate who makes a difference every day, and that's the legacy he hopes to leave.

"I want to be remembered for the guy that makes someone smile in the hallway, the guy that helps a student in need, and when it comes to sports, just a guy that takes time out of his practice to help others better their craft," Thompson said.

Jackson Thompson is the newest McDonald's Scholar Athlete of the Week.

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