BY EMMA CHESTER
Staff Writer

This year senior Gary Jackson qualified for outdoor track WPIALs in the triple and long jump. He is also part of the school’s 4×400 and

4×100 relay teams that qualified for WPIALs. During indoor track, he medaled in both tri-states and states competitions in both triple and

long jump.

For all of these accomplishments, Jackson has been named 2013-2014 Purbalite Male Athlete of the Year.

Jackson first became interested in track his freshman year and has competed in it ever since.

“I really liked the environment and all the talented athletes,” he said. “My coach, Tony Anderson, got me started. He’s been with me since

freshman year and has become my inspiration.”

“Over the years I have improved by practice and repetition,” Jackson said.

Jackson works hard to achieve his goals, working out Monday through Friday after school. Even during the off season, “I run and lift with my

coach and watch videos, to stay in shape and improve,” Jackson said.

Last year, he was the WPIAL champion for triple jump. He also qualified for both indoor and outdoor states, although he did not place.

“He did not compete his best but he learned how to compete,” track Coach Ed Helbig said.

This year Jackson continued to show his progress when he qualified for indoor states and tri-states in both triple and long jump.

“He learned from last year andcompeted the way we knew he could,” Helbig said.

Jackson is not only a jumper, but he is also an excellent runner.

“Gary is able to compete in just about any event, and he will during a dual meet, but during invitational it is his time to focus on his main events,” Helbig said.

His top event is triple jump.

“My favorite event is the triple jump because it involves a lot of technical work,” Jackson said.

During practice Jackson continues to show his dedication to the sport.

“Gary always works hard at practice,” said sophomore and teammate Kadin Hinish.

“He is a leader on the team, and his work ethic is admirable.”

“Gary is the ultimate team player. He’s an all-around good kid,” Helbig said.