Jackson Vander Velde is a senior at Merrill High School and the starting middle linebacker for the Bluejay football team. In his first year as a varsity starter, Jackson has led the Merrill defense in tackles with eight in each of the last two games. In his free time Jackson enjoys riding his four wheeler and snowmobile, as well as hunting and fishing. The son of Jason and Amy Vander Velde, Jackson currently maintains a GPA of 3.7. Following graduation next spring, he plans to either join the Marine Corps or find a trade job.