Merced County football star makes his college choice official. ‘It’s another step’
Jaxson Percoats dream has always been to play in the NFL and he’s been determined to do everything he can to make it happen.
The Buhach Colony High senior never stopped working, whether it was on the field, in the weight room or in the class room during his high school career.
That work paid off as Percoats officially signed his national letter of intent on Wednesday morning to accept a football scholarship to Southern Utah University.
Percoats celebrated the signing with family, friends, teammates and coaches at the Buhach Colony library on Wednesday night.
“It’s special to have all the people who have supported me throughout high school,” Percoats said. “It means a lot to have my family and friends all there for me.”
Percoats rewrote the school record book during his Thunder career.
Percoats rushed for 1,992 yards this season, which set the single-season record and 24 touchdowns, which tied the single-season record.
He finished as the Thunder all-time career rushing leader with 3,070 yards and the all-time career leader in all-purpose yards with 4,272.
Percoats was an all-Central California Conference first-team selection at running back and defensive back this fall.
Despite all the gaudy stats, Buhach Colony coaches rave about his unselfishness and team-first attitude.
“Southern Utah is getting a great teammate,” said Thunder coach Jerry Dietz. “He’s a hard worker, unselfish. He doesn’t worry about his stats. Everything is about the team with him.”
Percoats says he plans to major in finance or business. He compiled a 3.95 GPA during high school.
Percoats says he felt comfortable with the coaching staff and the players during his official visit.
“I just love the coaches,” Percoats said. “The city was nice, it’s an up and coming program. I think we’re going to do really well in the (NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision).”
Percoats has always been goal-oriented. He wanted to leave Buhach Colony High School as the best football player to play there. He has similar college goals.
“It’s another step of my dream to play at the next level and eventually make the Hall of Fame,” Percoats said.
Dietz says it’s special as a coach to see one of his players get an opportunity like this one.
“It’s an awesome feeling to see him keep playing and doing what he loves to do,” he said. “Especially with all the hard work he’s put in. I’m happy for him, his family and our program.”
Percoats is excited to hit the ground running.
“I’m very excited,” Percoats said. “I just want to get on campus, start grinding and kill it on the field.”
