NATCHEZ, Miss. — A Natchez native is seeking support from the community as he competes for national recognition.
Jaxon Jones, a senior at North Pike High School, has been nominated for the 2026 National Youth Athlete of the Year award.
Jones, who was born in Natchez, competes in varsity soccer and cross country while also staying active in several school organizations, including the National Honor Society, DECA and Beta Club. He also works as a lifeguard.
The competition allows the public to decide who will be named Youth Athlete of the Year. The winner will receive $25,000 and the opportunity to represent 3Brand (Russel Wilson, and Ciara’s Brand) in Sports Illustrated and on CBS.
Soccer has been a major part of Jones’ life since kindergarten.
According to his profile on the Athlete of the Year website, his family says the sport has helped shape his discipline, character and perseverance.
“Soccer has become more than a sport; it has shaped his discipline, character, and perseverance,” his family wrote. “He thrives on competition, teamwork, building relationships with teammates and coaches, and constantly pushing himself to improve.”
One of Jones’ biggest athletic inspirations is soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.
His family said Jones admires Ronaldo not only for his accomplishments on the field, but also for his approach to training and self-improvement.
“What stands out most to Jaxon is his mindset — his discipline, dedication, focus, and commitment to continuous improvement despite obstacles,” the profile states.
Those same qualities, his family said, are reflected in the way Jones approaches both athletics and everyday life.
They said one of the things that makes them proudest is the way he continues to support his teammates while maintaining his character through the pressures of competition.
“He never allows the pressure or challenges of competition to change who he is,” his family wrote. “He leads with respect, humility, and character, always striving to be the best athlete, teammate, and person he can be.”
Jones is now hoping to turn that dedication into national recognition through the 2026 National Youth Athlete of the Year competition.
Supporters can cast one free vote each day. Donations are optional and are not required to vote.
Voting is available at athleteoftheyear.org/2026/jaxon-445c.
Jones and his supporters are encouraging residents across Natchez and the surrounding Miss-Lou area to vote daily and share the contest with friends and family.
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