By Derrick Smith

Motivation can be a key player in the success of an athlete. All athletes know that they have to put in work in order to reach their goals, but there are times that they may hit a wall and have a hard time pushing forward. Carson Jackson says that when those tough times hit, she keeps herself motivated a few different ways.

“Working to overcome failure is one way that I keep myself motivated,” she said. “Also, working to be able to play at the next level and most importantly my faith in God and living everyday to glorify him are ways that I keep myself focused on my goals.”

Jackson is a junior at Chandler High School. She plays fastpitch and slowpitch softball, basketball, and runs track. 

Throughout her career, Carson has had a few people that she sees as influences on her life and have helped shape the person that she is today.

“Some of the biggest role models in my life are my family and the University of Oklahoma softball team,” she said. “My family has shaped me into the person I am today and I look up to the Oklahoma softball players because their goal every time they step on the field is to glorify God and play all out for him and for eachother. One of my teammates, Keelie Treat is one of my biggest competitors on my team. She puts in a lots of work on and off the field and I definitely look up to her. She pushes me everyday to be the best player and teammate I can be.”

While she is appreciative of others for her success, Carson has put in a lot of time and effort over the years. 

“It’s has taken a lot of mental toughness, hard work and dedication,” she said. “There are many nights where I have a bad game and just come home and hit outside into the net with my dad because I knew I could of done better.”

Jackson has two sisters and a brother, Cruz, Letty, and Zeplyn. Her plans after high school are to get a scholarship to play softball and become a physical therapist.