Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Two head coaches with Jackson Public Schools (JPS) have been named as SEC White Division Coach of the Year.
Head boys basketball coach Phillip Thompson earned SEC White Basketball Coach of the Year and head swim coach Joe Zessin earned SEC White Swim Coach of the Year (Thompson and Zessin pictured above from left to right).
In his first year coaching at JPS, Coach Thompson led the Jackson High School boys basketball program to a season that saw them earn both the SEC White Division Conference Championship and the District 12 Championship.
His message to student-athletes has been consistent: use the lessons of competition to prepare for life after graduation, whether students “go pro or go corporate,” and wherever their paths lead.
“Culture wins championships, and I am indebted to the work ethic and buy-in of our players this season. Without their effort and focus, none of these achievements would be possible,” Thompson said.
“They have made me a better coach, and I hope these lessons of competitive greatness stick with them for the rest of their lives.”
JPS says that Coach Joe Zesssin being awarded recognizes hid exceptional leadership, dedication to student-athletes, and commitment to building a program grounded in excellence, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
His coaching approach emphasizes consistent effort, strong fundamentals, and a positive team culture to support student growth in and out of the pool.
“I’m grateful for the support of our community and the families who encourage our student-athletes every step of the way,” Zessin said.
“I’m also truly grateful for the support of the JPS administration, which helps supply the needs of our program and provides state-of-the-art facilities. Because of this high level of support, coaching is enjoyable, and it allows us to focus on helping students grow, compete, and represent JPS with pride.”
JPS congratulated Coach Thompson and Coach Zessin, thanking them for the energy, mentorship, and high standards they bring to their schools and community.