Innate kindness shows in all of Medical Lake grad’s pursuits

Even when his face was bleeding after being knocked down, or after he was hit hard on his hip during the first play of a game, Jackson Tappero demonstrated sportsmanship.

That, plus his innate kindness, earned Tappero recognition and respect from his coaches and peers at Medical Lake High School. During his years at the school, Tappero was a varsity athlete who participated in football, wrestling and track while maintaining a 3.872 grade-point average.

He comes from a large and supportive family and attends a youth group at his church. He credits his family and faith for encouraging him to do well, not only in sports and academics, but in life.

He also considers his athletic director, Chris Spring, to be a role model who was present at every game and awards ceremony. Likewise, Spring is exceptionally proud of his student.

“He’s a leader in every capacity of the word,” Spring said. “That means in our hallways, in our classrooms and on our sports fields.” Tappero represented his school and his team in the best way possible, by extending help and respect to others both on and off of the field.

Although his high school years were filled with honors and awards, Tappero considers his best memories to be those spent with friends. The memories of traveling to games, playing on the field and hanging out in the hallways with his friends and team members are what Tappero will bring with him when he leaves to further his education and pursue a career in sports medicine.

Although he will be missed at Medical Lake, Spring is confident in Tappero’s future. “He’s one of those kids that you get once every 10 years,” Spring said. “He’s going to be a superstar in whatever he chooses to venture into.”