Crete-Monee senior Dominic Jackson has shown he will go to great lengths to assist his team. When Warriors coach John Konecki calls out ‘steamroller’ from the sidelines, Jackson knows his opportunity has arrived. This play indicates the 5-foot-11, 250-pound defensive lineman and running back will receive the ball during short-yardage situations.
‘I enjoy running the ball, helping the team, and scoring points,’ Jackson expressed. ‘It gives the offense and the team momentum. I love scoring and making impactful tackles.’
Jackson’s performance on Friday night was a testament to his abilities. He scored three robust touchdowns in the first half, leading Crete-Monee to a 44-0 victory over Hillcrest. Jackson amassed 48 yards on eight carries, with touchdown runs of 2, 19, and 3 yards.
Coach Konecki remarked, ‘When we run Dom, we aim for 3 yards. Anything more is a bonus.’ Jackson surprised the team with his 19-yard run, breaking through a tough defense to reach the end zone.
By halftime, Crete-Monee led 41-0, aided by senior quarterback August LaBranche’s 133-yard passing performance, which included a 59-yard touchdown pass to Monte Calvin-Bowsky. Calvin-Bowsky contributed significantly, catching six passes for 117 yards and starting the game strong with a 40-yard kickoff return. He also made a fumble recovery. Isaiah Jordan added to the defensive effort with an interception and a fumble recovery, while Keegan Quaderer recovered a blocked punt.
Dominic Jackson began playing football in 2018 after moving from Indianapolis. He recalls being 160 pounds in grade school but grew to between 200 and 220 pounds in high school. ‘A lot of working out and eating went into managing the weight,’ Jackson noted. ‘To perform, you need to run effectively with your weight.’
Hillcrest’s challenges continued with their scoreless 0-2 start. They gained only 49 yards against Crete-Monee, with senior running back Devan Watson contributing 33 yards on six carries. Jackson played a key role in the staunch defensive effort. Teammate Isaiah Jordan praised Jackson, saying, ‘He’ll do anything to help the team.’
The Warriors faced an offensive overhaul after losing key players quarterback Derrin Couch and receiver Dorian Patterson. Jeremiah Stonewall was set to fill this gap but left for Grayson, Georgia’s football powerhouse, in July. This opened opportunities for players like Jackson to step up.
Jackson may head to Bemidji State as a fullback or explore playing on the defensive line. His athleticism extends beyond football. He competed in state wrestling and participated in discus and shot put in track and field.
Coach Konecki highlighted, ‘Dominic is a three-sport athlete. While many focus on one sport, his involvement in multiple sports has enhanced his football skills.’
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