The Martel brothers just keep tossing the pigskin around … and the awards.
Jackson Martel, a quarterback at Bishop Carroll High School, has been named the 2025 Division 1 Harry Hood Memorial Scholarship winner by the Calgary Booster Club. It’s the same scholarship that Jackson’s older brother, Josh, received in 2023.
“I am truly honoured to receive the Harry Hood Memorial Award. This recognition means so much to me, my family, and my school,” said Jackson.
“I feel both proud and humbled to represent my incredible school, coaches, and teammates. None of this would have been possible without their support. Seeing my dedication on the football field and in the classroom pay off is deeply rewarding, and I’m grateful for everyone who helped me reach this moment.”
The elder Josh – who signed on with the University of Calgary football program – was an inspiration to Jackson, both on the gridiron and away from it, and Jackson has also been fortunate to play football with his younger brother, Jacob.
“To see a young man who has come so far since his Grade 10 year and being able to coach him throughout his high school career is amazing,” said Bishop Carroll High School Athletic Director David Holowaychuk of Jackson.
“He was an integral part of our team’s success as a receiver in Grade 10, catching passes from his graduating older brother, and then to come full circle, to then be throwing to his younger brother as his senior quarterback in Grade 12 is unique and special.”
Added Holowayhuk: “As most quarterbacks are, he has an innate sense for the game of football. But Jackson is set apart from others that have come before him in that he understands the nuances of the game, how to create advantages on the field through his play and that of his teammates. He works with our coaches to develop plays and strategy that are tailored for success at his position and for those around him.”
Holowaychuk also praised Jackson as a well-rounded student and a multi-sport athlete.
“Jackson is a captain on and off the field with his teammates, his fellow classmates and the community around him. He is an outstanding contributor to our school programs, including masses, fundraising initiatives and athletics outside of the football field,” said Holowaychuk.
“He has won two city championships in basketball, and contributes significantly to our swimming and track and field teams. He has an outstanding grade-point average and takes his studies seriously.”
Jackson is continually striving for improvement and is always receptive to advice, added Holowaychuk.
“When you have a football player that has come up the ranks of club football and has been taught and coached at many levels, and by many outstanding coaches prior to his high school experience, there can be instances where that player could have the mindset of that they are aware of everything they need to succeed in this game and don’t receive coaching very well,” noted Holowaychuk.
“The exact opposite of this is the case with Jackson. He is constantly looking to improve his skills, his knowledge and his abilities to play this game at a higher level every time he steps on the field. Coachability is something every leader hopes they have in their athletes and Jackson is always willing to take feedback, learn new skills and develop as a player.”
Jackson said his athletic pursuits have proven invaluable throughout his life.
“Football, and athletics in general mean the world to me. For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn towards sports and especially football: for the excitement, competition, and friendship. These aspects across team sports have carried me through high school,” observed Jackson.
“Specifically on the football field, or basketball court – or whatever sport I am competing in at that time – I can block out everything else going on in my life and focus entirely on the game in front of me. This calming aspect in a chaotic setting keeps me grounded, and excited to compete.”
Jackson plans on majoring in biological sciences at the University of Alberta.
“I am excited to have accepted a position with the Golden Bears and Coach (Stevenson) Bone starting in the 2026 season. The current goal in front of me is undergraduate sciences and getting into medical school, and from there, I hope to ultimately be a doctor in the future, helping people and giving back to my community,” he said.
The Calgary Booster Club, in partnership with the Calgary Senior High School Athletic Association (CSHSAA), names three Harry Hood Memorial Scholarship winners each year.
The award – which was established in 1956 – is given annually to top student athletes in Division 1, Division 2 and Division 3 football. It is named after Harry Hood, who played for the Calgary Stampeders from 1948 through 1952 before passing away due to cancer in 1954. Hood spent much of his time coaching high school football and believed strongly that football contributed greatly to positive growth in young people.