Jackson Freeman Memorial Award
Jackson had a sputtering start with his lacrosse career with the Titans organization. He was signed up for tykes, attended all the practices, but in the first game, which consisted of playing from side board to side board, he stood in the middle and cried. So, we were done with lacrosse for a while! He re-started his lacrosse career in Novice and at that time we were adamant that he not play goal as he was already a goalie in hockey- we wanted him to run around and enjoy the fitness of the game. When it came time for the first game, the player scheduled to be goalie couldn’t make it and the coach begged us to let Jackson play goal just for this one game! Well, he went out and literally won the game for his team, shutting out the other side. Watching our shy, introverted and quiet son blossom with all the high fives and congratulations from both his teammates and parents alike, how could we say no to the coach’s request for him to remain in goal? And Jackson the goalie, as he was quite often referred to, was born. Jackson progressed through the Titan organization playing for the Pewee, Bantam and Midget A clubs, finding success in league play and winning various tournaments. He attended Vimy Ridge Academy for his high school years where he not only was allowed to hone his craft in box but was also introduced to field lacrosse. Yes, of course, the crazy kid played goal there as well! Both disciplines complimented each other so well, allowing Jackson to gain the necessary skills that following his years with the Titans, he was drafted by the Junior A St Albert Miners (which he played at that level for two years).Honestly it gave us goose bumps to watch him play. The poise, confidence and yes sometimes swagger with which he played made us so proud!
For all of his accomplishments in the field of play, it was growth off the field that is the reason for the parameters of this memorial award. Not only was Jackson recognized as an amazing goalie in a rough and incredibly competitive atmosphere, he was also known for his kindness and willingness to go the extra mile for anyone that knew him. We honestly believe that one brought out the other. Friends, coworkers, coaches and the like have all reiterated how Jackson was a genuinely nice guy. He brought an unforgettable kind and positive energy wherever he went, and his goal in life was to take care of the people around him. This was his legacy. Jackson’s favorite hoodie, of which he had multiple colours, had this saying on the back:
“Hi to the person behind me, I just wanted to let you that the world is a better place with you in it”
So, this is a different kind of award. It is not presented strictly on performance in the field of play. The recipient of this award is the graduate student that by their very nature, will go the extra mile to help those in need and spread kindness with their positive energy in all facets of their life. It takes very little energy to be kind. To spread this idea was Jackson’s mission in life. Please make it yours.
In 2024 Jackson was killed by a drunk driver, his life was cut short. We are honoring his memory and his spirit through the memorial award.
