Sapulpa’s Jackson Mills

Setting goals as a student-athlete is something every player will do this season. From classroom goals to team and individual goals, knowing what you want to accomplish and seeing it through not only helps the team, but it brings a level of responsibility to the player, forcing them to hold themselves accountable. For Sapulpa High School’s Jackson Mills, the goals he has set for himself, and his team are achievable through hard work.

“One of the main goals I’ve set for myself are that I want to break the single season tackle record at Sapulpa. But my goal for the team this year is to be the best defense in 6A-2,” said Mills.

It’s no surprise that Mills brings a work ethic to the field for the Chieftains. One that the coaching staff has recognized in Mills.

“Coach Holt recognizing my work ethic just shows that my hard work in the offseason is paying off and only means that I need to keep doing what I’m doing,” said Mills.

As a defensive specialist at linebacker Mills said it’s a position where he is most comfortable and understands the task of the position. This allows Mills to be in the right place and the right time.

“I love playing linebacker because it’s what I’ve played almost my whole life and with having a wrestling background I feel that tackling is my biggest strength,” Mills said. “I have put a lot of time into my strength training and speed and agility.”

But football is a team sport and Mills said his teammates are working hard and have enjoyed a solid spring camp and team camp.

“We have a lot of great leadership on both sides of the ball, and we play with a great amount of grit and determination. Deshon Koch, Levi Jensen, and Sequoyah Hall are players to watch,” Mills said. “Our tight end Logan Mason and receiver Landon Barber have both been major weapons for the offense so for this spring.”

The obvious game on the schedule to watch is the rivalry game again Sand Springs and it’s one that both teams have circled on their schedules.

Mills said his father has been a source of inspiration.

“My dad is the person who inspires me the most. He has been with me every step of the way. He has supported me at my highest of highs and my lowest of lows. He keeps pushing me to be the best version of myself,” said Mills.

After high school, Mills would like to continue in athletics at the next level.

“My plan after I graduate is to either play football or wrestle at the next level. Whichever sport gives me the best opportunity to compete at the college level is what I’m going to pursue,” said Mills.