Kyle Jackson Takes the Helm: Avon Old Farms School Welcomes Professional Lacrosse Player as Director of Lacrosse Program
AVON, Conn. - Avon Old Farms School has announced the appointment of Kyle Jackson, a distinguished professional lacrosse player, as the new Director of Lacrosse Programs. With an illustrious career spanning both indoor and outdoor lacrosse leagues, Jackson brings a wealth of experience and passion to guide the Avonians towards success in the upcoming 2024 spring season.
Hailing from Sarnia, Ontario, Jackson's journey in lacrosse began at The Hill Academy in Vaughn, Ontario, where he honed his skills on the lacrosse field. Later, at the University of Michigan, he not only pursued literature and sciences but also served as the captain of the lacrosse team, showcasing his leadership qualities early in his career.
After graduation, Jackson made history as the first University of Michigan alum to be drafted into both the National Lacrosse League (NLL) and Major League Lacrosse (MLL, now known as the PLL). His impressive career includes stints with the Rochester Knighthawks, Halifax Thunderbirds, and Philadelphia Wings in the NLL, while achieving back-to-back championships with the Boston Cannons and Chaos LC in the MLL/PLL.
“I am thrilled and honored to lead a program that is rich in tradition. It excites me to be in a position that will allow me to use my knowledge of the game in a capacity to lead boys in the direction of becoming a well-rounded man,” shared Jackson, emphasizing his commitment to instilling values beyond the field.
As a current professional player, Jackson aspires to inspire and lead by example. He emphasizes that the Avonians under his guidance should view him as a resource, noting, “everything and anything I am asking them to do is something I am currently doing alongside them at the highest level.”
“I am ecstatic that Kyle Jackson will now be leading our esteemed lacrosse program,” commented Avon Old Farms Athletic Director Geoff Barlow. “We eagerly anticipate an exciting future that holds immense promise for our team and players, both on and off the field.”
Jackson's arrival at Avon Old Farms was serendipitous, as he and his family moved to West Hartford in 2022 to be closer to relatives. Less than a week after settling in, the Head Lacrosse Coaching position at Avon Old Farms became available. Over the past year, he worked closely with the revered Coach Henry 'Skip' Flanagan, becoming familiar with the school and its lacrosse program.
“Historically anyone who has ever heard of lacrosse has heard of AOF. Knowing that I could make an impact and leave a legacy on such a program was something I absolutely wanted to be a part of. That simplistic answer in itself, mixed with the concept that this place is all about brotherhood and family, tied in perfectly to what my entire existence is all about,” Jackson shared.
Expressing his excitement about joining Avon Old Farms, Jackson remarked on the passionate faculty and staff. “It is not everyday you find yourself in a position where the people you work alongside are equally as passionate about making the place around them a more enjoyable atmosphere to be a part of.”
Avon Old Farms School looks forward to the energy, expertise, and leadership that Kyle Jackson brings to the lacrosse programs, anticipating a season of growth, camaraderie, and success under his guidance.