The Jackson Academy community celebrated two athletic signings within the past week. On Wednesday, February 3, Donovan Veasley signed to play football with Holmes Community College. This morning, Brendan Gibson signed to play football with Belhaven University. Both athletes have demonstrated great tenacity in the pursuit of their sport, overcoming injuries during high school to continue their athletic careers in college.
Donovan Veasley, son of Kwanza Price and Derrick Veasley, has excelled at JA throughout his career. He had a successful sophomore season where he started as a linebacker for the Raiders. Entering his junior year, he sustained a very serious knee injury that ended his junior season. Through months of grueling rehab, Donovan returned for his senior year and helped lead the Raiders to the State Championship game in November. Donovan was selected for several post-season awards: 1st team all conference lineback; selected to the MAIS All-Star Football Team; selected as the Defensive MVP in the all-star game.
Brendan Gibson, son of Jeff and Erica Gibson, has triumphed on the gridiron, basketball court, and track during his high school career at JA. In football, he accomplished 102 career tackles, 96 of during his junior year, 1 interception, 41 all-purpose yards, and 4 receptions. In track and field, Brendan won second place in the varsity state triple jump his sophomore year. As a basketball player, he earned Most Improved and Best Defense honors. After a severe knee injury received during practice prevented Brendan from playing his senior season, he proved his grit through months of arduous physical therapy. He is currently playing basketball with the Raiders and thrilled to be headed to the Belhaven football team next year!
Congratulations to Donovan and Brendan!
