WOODBURY — Camaraderie. Competitiveness. Leadership. These are qualities that junior Emma Jackson doesn’t run from. In fact, she embraces them. Regardless of the sport, Jackson’s leadership is something she carries with her throughout the seasons.
“Sports have always played a major part in my life, whether it’s volleyball, track, or basketball,” said Jackson. “It’s just something I grew up with. I’m always there for any sport I play. If it’s for school or for a club, I’ll always be there.”
Through the fall of her junior season, Jackson has already made countless memories, though there are still some that remain on her checklist. Among these, one goal is an exclusive accolade on the volleyball court: the 500 Club.
The 500 Club is a place among a program’s most accomplished players: players who accumulate at least 500 digs, assists, or kills. A new banner in the gym honors these players.
“It would be such an honor for me to be able to go on that banner, and definitely a high school memory that I will never forget,” said Jackson, the team’s setter who hopes to hit 500 assists as a senior.
The differences from the start of someone’s high school career to now is huge as Jackson’s role has evolved through her three years in NHS’ volleyball program. There are big differences that show how people grow over time, not only as a player, but as a leader.
“She has a great work ethic, but this year I’ve noticed a big increase in her confidence, and in the end helped her attain over 400 assists this season alone,” said Marty Malaspina, Nonnewaug’s volleyball coach.
Playing sports since childhood has certainly prepared Jackson for a skillset that sets her apart on both the volleyball and basketball court, but it’s her work ethic that outside observers immediately notice.
Ten free throws — that’s how many shots Jackson and her teammates aim to make before moving onto the next station, but in the case of Jackson, 10 isn’t enough.
“Emma Jackson tries really hard at everything she does, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen the kid in a bad mood,” says Toby Denman, Nonnewaug girls basketball assistant coach. “She’s willing to take on whatever role is necessary and does it to the best of her ability.”
Regardless of sport — she’s also a thrower during outdoor track season — Jackson brings leadership skills that accompany her second-to-none drive and work ethic.
“I can’t speak for all Nonnewaug sports, but I know for our team she has already been a natural leader, especially being the setter,” Malaspina adds.
Leader is a word that can have multiple different meanings. It could mean stepping up to the plate when needed, always being there to help people, or to be a role model for underclassmen. All of these qualities are what Jackson exudes, and that’s what makes her role even more invaluable.
“She has definitely been a role model to me over this past season,” says freshman volleyball and basketball player Ava Rickenbach. “She has taught me a lot about what it’s like being on a high school team and about how a team works, and [she] has led me to be a better player not only in volleyball but in basketball as well.”
