Grand Rapids, Michigan - Jackson Rowe, the son of Ashley and Brandon Rowe, has signed his national letter of intent to continue his academic and athletic career at Aquinas College. Rowe, who recently graduated from West Ottawa High School, became the eighth signee of the 2024-25 recruiting class for the Aquinas College men's cross country and track & field programs.

Rowe stated, "I love the campus and how friendly everyone is.  It feels like a big family."

Jackson, whose hobbies include walking through stores, tanning at the beach, and road trips, has posted a personal best of 14'6'' in the pole vault. This spring was his most successful season as he qualified for the state finals and finished second in the always competitive OK Red conference. He also is LGI, Red Cross and emergency oxygen certified.

Dan Blake, track and field coach at West Ottawa added, "I am extremely hopeful for this opportunity that he has at Aquinas. He's a bright young man, quiet and respectful. Jackson is consistent in competitions and seems to do well when it matters most. I think he has HUGE potential, considering he has vaulted pretty well without much practice or really working on his speed and strength. I think the chance to be at Aquinas and to be around a positive group of athletes will be a huge thing for him in general and also for his athletic career. I know he's excited about the opportunity and I hope that it can be a life changing one for him."

Jackson has three siblings named Max, Fox, and Wren and he is planning on studying Business Administration at Aquinas College.

Aquinas assistant coach Brian Bolton commented, "We're excited to welcome Jackson into the Aquinas family! He's had a terrific season with his consistency, breaking through a barrier that will keep him right in the mix. Jackson brings with him a calmness and balance that will really benefit this group. Can't wait to see what happens in the next four years."