April 28, 2024

Kyle Jackson (Ojibwe): Moving Up The Ranks To The Halifax Thunderbirds And Beyond

By Dan Ninham (Oneida)

Kyle Jackson is Ojibwe from the Aamjiwnaang First Nation. His home is in Sarnia, Ontario.

Kyle, 26, is a four-time letter winner at The University of Michigan, was a captain, All-ECAC, was voted Most Valuable Player and was at one time a top three all-time leading scorer. He held the University of Michigan school record for all-time points with 113, as well as goals with 88 at one time. He graduated with a degree in English.

Kyle was drafted in the seventh round in 2017 by the Major League Lacrosse (MLL) franchise Boston Cannons although the season was delayed due to the pandemic. He earned Rookie of the Year for the Cannons with 14 goals.

Kyle entered his fourth season with the Halifax Thunderbirds franchise in the National Lacrosse League (NLL) that has since been temporarily suspended due to COVID-19 pandemic. His profile page is located here: https://www.halifaxthunderbirds.com/players/detail/jackson

He is a veteran Iroquois Nationals player and earned a silver medal at the 2019 FIL World Lacrosse Championship.

He played lacrosse at The Hill Academy in Ontario. He also played with the Team Canada U-19 World Team. He competed with Team Ontario and was a bantam silver medalist, U-16 gold medalist, and two-time U-19 gold medalist.

“I play the game because I love it,” said Kyle. “The game creates an atmosphere of inclusion where nobody is financially or institutionally greater than any teammates. We are all one while we play and truly get to represent who we are as an inclusive group.” 

“Doug Gilmore, professional hockey player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, influences me in a positive way,” said Kyle. “He played the game hard and the right way.” 

“Without all of us being united, we all fall apart,” said Kyle. “Mind, body, spirit and emotions all have to be in tune with one another or else it will be impossible to be at your very best.” 

“It doesn’t take being the #1 overall draft pick or best incoming recruit to be successful,” said Kyle. “I have become a walking example that hard work, a positive attitude and a great mindset can help you achieve all of your goals.”

Check out Kyle Jackson’s profile for the Boston Cannons here: https://cannons.majorleaguelacrosse.com/sports/mens-lacrosse/roster/kyle-jackson/35

And for the Halifax Thunderbirds here:

https://www.halifaxthunderbirds.com/players/detail/jackson

Photo Credit: Trevor MacMillan/Halifax Thunderbirds