Oswego East Student-Athlete of the Week-Jack Benson

For senior Jack Benson, football has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember. Starting with flag football in 1st grade, Jack made the transition in 4th grade to tackle football, where the physicality of the game ignited his passion for the sport. As a defensive lineman for the Wolves, Jack has been called on to be both a run-stopper and pass-rusher in their new defense this season. Jack has done more than rise to the occasion with both his play and leadership, which is why he is this week’s Oswego East student-athlete of the week.

Jack’s freshman season was a motivating factor for all the hard work he has put in over the past four years. “When I got to high school, football became more competitive and I began enjoying it more,” says Jack. He goes on to say, “Everyone was stronger and you had to work to improve to compete.”

That work ethic, both on the field and in the weight room, is something that has allowed Jack to become an integral part of the Wolves defense. Jack has amassed 21 tackles for a defense that holds opponents to a mere 13 points per game. “Jack’s outstanding work ethic has allowed him to develop into a leader for us,” says head coach Tyson Leblanc.

Defensive coordinator Dan Dunbar elaborates on Leblanc’s feelings, saying, “Jack has developed into the leader of the defensive line. He leads through words and actions, and what he says carries a lot of weight because he is consistently one of the hardest-working players on the team. One of his best strengths is his attitude and motivation to continue to get better every day, as well as pushing his teammates consistently and not letting them settle for anything but their best.”

Jack’s maturation as a person and football player can be accredited to a large degree to his upbringing at home as well as his experience at OE. His parents, Christine and Matt Benson say, “We have watched Jack grow in his determination, strength, and confidence both on and off the field in his four years at OE.” They continue by saying, “Jack loves playing football. It has given him purpose and a community in which he thrives. His teammates can depend on him to be there for them.”

After beginning the season 4-1, the Wolves will need to win at least 1 of their 2 final games to become playoff eligible this season, which will be a tough task given undefeated Plainfield North and crosstown rivals Oswego left on the schedule. However, Jack and his teammates believe they are up to the task, with teamwork being a motivating factor for Jack. “I love the camaraderie with my teammates,” says Jack. He adds, “They drive me to want to become better and stronger.”

After high school, Jack plans on playing football and majoring in accounting with a minor in data analytics. With a 3.8 G.P.A., Jack is leaning towards Augustana College for both. Defensive line coach Pat Molinari knows Jack has the physical and mental makeup to succeed, saying, “Jack will be a successful college football player. His work ethic is second to none, his understanding of the game is incredibly advanced, and his desire to be successful and love for the game will help him accomplish his goals playing at the next level.”

Jack uses that same work ethic to succeed in the classroom. His accounting teacher, Graham Brown, says, “Jack comes to class with a positive attitude, ready to learn, and looking to perform. I have no doubt Jack will be successful in the accounting program because of his natural understanding of the material and drive to succeed.”

Before Jack tackles his future, he and the Wolves will have their sights set on winning the crosstown classic in front of a full-capacity crowd, simultaneously earning themselves a playoff bid and ending their crosstown rivals for one. For future Wolves, he advises them to, “Get your work done in the classroom so you have time to get work done in the weight room and on the field.” The Wolves have been putting in the work this week in their hotly anticipated contest against the Panthers, hoping it will pay off with a bid to the IHSA playoffs.