Three years ago, Jackson Booth lost his father. Today at 17, he’s honouring him by chasing his dream of playing soccer at a competitive academy in the UK.

At just 14 years old, Jackson faced a heartbreak that no young person should ever have to endure. We lost his father, Casey Booth, to mental health. Losing his dad was devastating for our entire family, but especially for a young boy still growing into the man he would become.

Yet through that grief, Jackson showed incredible resilience, strength, and maturity far beyond his years. Those who knew Casey know just how proud he would be of the young man Jackson is becoming today.

Today, Jackson is working toward an amazing opportunity — training and playing soccer at a competitive academy in the UK, something he has worked incredibly hard for.

I recently had the opportunity to watch him play in a tournament in Las Vegas, and seeing him compete firsthand was incredible. His talent, discipline, and passion for the game are undeniable — but what stood out even more was the young man he has become. Jackson is kind, caring, respectful, and grounded, with morals and integrity far beyond his years.

What makes me even prouder is that in his spare time, Jackson gives back to the sport he loves. He spends time coaching younger soccer teams and mentoring kids, including children who face their own challenges and difficulties. He understands that being a great athlete also means being a positive role model, and he leads with kindness, patience, and encouragement for the younger players who look up to him.

He has recently been invited to compete in another exciting tournament in Dallas — another incredible opportunity to continue developing and showcasing his talent on a bigger stage.

Being 17 and living overseas isn’t easy. Being far away from family in Australia can be incredibly difficult. While this opportunity is exciting and life-changing, it also means being away from the people who love and support him most. Part of this fundraiser is to help make those visits home possible so he can stay connected to his family and friends.

Jackson’s mum has carried so much on her shoulders. She is one of the strongest and most hardworking women I know, and she continues to do everything she can to support Jackson and give him every opportunity possible.

This fundraiser isn’t because they can’t manage — it’s simply a way for friends, family, and community to come together and show support for a young man who has worked incredibly hard and continues to follow his dream.

Funds raised will help support Jackson in pursuing his soccer dream. Our goal is $15,000 to cover:

• Academy training and program fees

• Travel to tournaments (including the upcoming Dallas tournament)

• Equipment and living expenses

• Flights that allow Jackson to visit family and friends in Australia

No amount is too small, and even sharing this page means the world.

Let’s show Jackson that he is supported not only by his immediate family, but by an entire community that believes in him and the incredible future ahead of him.

PS: Jackson’s mum (my sister) is incredibly strong and a little stubborn when it comes to accepting help — but sometimes even the strongest people deserve a community behind them. This is our way of supporting both of them and helping Jackson continue chasing his dream.

Final closing line:

Together we can help Jackson continue chasing the dream he has worked so hard for — and remind him that no matter how far he travels, he carries the support of an entire community with him. ⚽️

Thank You, I know he will pay this forward when he’s an incredible professional soccer player