P.K. Yonge Welcomes Willie Jackson, Jr. as New Blue Wave Head Football Coach

May 8, 2023

Coach Jackson will begin his duties as Blue Wave Head Football Coach immediately.

(Gainesville, FL) – P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School has hired P.K. Yonge alum and former Gator and NFL player, Willie Jackson, Jr., as Head Football Coach. With more than 25 years of football experience, Jackson will bring a proven record of winning and player development to the Blue Wave football program. Jackson will also serve at the school as an academic success coach. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome back PK lifer Willie Jackson to the Blue Wave family. Our student-athletes will benefit from the high standard Willie will set our football program,” said Dr. Brian K. Marchman, P.K. Yonge director. “Willie is a proven winner at every level and we expect him and his players to win again here, on and off the field.”

Jackson is well-known locally as a 9-season NFL player, a UF football and basketball player. He was a multi-sport all-state performer for P.K. Yonge. While at P.K. Yonge, Jackson played football, basketball, baseball, and track and field. At UF, Jackson was a three-time All SEC football player. He was selected in the 4th round of the NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys and played 9 seasons with the Cowboys, Jaguars, Bengals, Saints, Falcons, Redskins, and Broncos. 

“It gives me great joy and I feel extremely blessed to do something that I love, at a place that I love, to continue to build a great legacy,” said Coach Jackson. 

As a high school and collegiate coach, Jackson focuses on motivating students to achieve their academic and athletic goals. He has coached football, basketball, and track and field. 

“I share our student athletes’ excitement in welcoming Coach Jackson to the Blue Wave family. I look forward to working with him as he teaches, coaches, and mentors our students,” said Dr. Carrie Geiger, P.K. Yonge principal. 

Jackson graduated from P.K. Yonge in 1989 and was a PK “lifer.” He earned his undergraduate degree in journalism and broadcasting telecommunication from the University of Florida. Jackson begins his head football coach duties immediately.

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