Mandy Torkelson is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Valley Christian High School for AZPreps365.com

Valley Christian outfielder Brock Jackson missed half of the season last year after undergoing surgery to remove his hamate bone and dealing with a UCL strain in his left elbow. Now fully healthy, he is looking to wrap up his time as a Trojan (18-4) on a positive note. 

“I want to be the best version of myself I can be to help this team,” Jackson said. “You never know when you’re in your last day of playing baseball, so you just gotta take every day and make it the best you can be.”

Despite missing half of his junior season, Jackson led the team in several key statistics this year, including batting average (.508), on-base percentage (.613), slugging percentage (.967), and stolen bases (19). 

Jackson spent the first half of the 2025 season focusing on recovering physically and mentally, then returned stronger, helping lead the Trojans to a state championship.

“I don’t think it was surprising he led the team in key stats last season,” head coach Vince LaGatta said. “When he came back, he was like a caged lion; he was ready to attack everything and anything.”

During his time with Valley Christian, Jackson was a part of two state championships and had a massive role in contributing to the team's success. 

“He has led the league in a lot of different areas, but his presence for our younger guys and what we need to have accomplished out here and how he contributes as a leader is why he is so special,” LaGatta said. 

Jackson's energy translates into his consistent performance year after year. Going into his fourth year on the team, he stepped into a leadership role, making sure his teammates approach games with the right mindset.

“He never has anything bad to say, and I feel like that’s huge for team culture,” teammate Jaxen Maxey said. “Negative energy is cancer.”

Even while sidelined, Jackson stayed engaged by supporting and encouraging his teammates.

“He’s a hustler with a positive attitude,” Maxey said. “It’s just really cool to see. He is such a good leader for the whole team.”

With this being his final season with Valley Christian, Jackson plans to make the most of his remaining time as he prepares to attend Colorado Mesa University next fall. 

“I want to come out here every day, be a leader and guide these guys to another state championship,” Jackson said. “I’m excited to be able to go out there and work for it one last time.”

Valley Christian ended its regular season April 27 with a 14-0 win over Florence. State tournament brackets will be available April 30.