The Colorado Rapids have signed 2018 MLS SuperDraft selection Niki Jackson.
Here are three things to know about the 22-year-old striker…
1. He traveled around the world to develop his skills at a young age.
Jackson trained with some of the highest-ranked clubs in the US and Brazil during his youth. The Memphis, Tennessee native was developed through Real Salt Lake Academy (2013), Phoenix Academy (2011), and West Coast FC Academy (2009-10) where he helped lead West Coast FC to the semifinals at the Nike Manchester United Cup in 2010. Between 2007-2013, Jackson received additional training with the TetraBrazil Soccer Academy starting with the U-12 squad.
2. He was one of the top goal-scorers in the nation at Grand Canyon University.
The 6’1” striker had a record-breaking season in his junior year at Grand Canyon University as he scored a total of 16 goals, ranking third in the nation. He was named the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Offensive Player of the Year and earned NSCAA First Team All-West Region honors in the same year. Overall, he finished with 34 points (goals plus assists) in 2016, tying for fourth in the country.
Jackson also made GCU history by becoming the second player to represent GCU as a MLS SuperDraft pick. His teammate, Amer Sasivarevic was selected in the third round (57th overall) by FC Dallas, also in the 2018 SuperDraft.
3. He made his mark with the first team during preseason.
Executive Vice President & General Manager, Pádraig Smith said, “Niki has done very well this preseason. He is a very talented, humble young man who has all the tools necessary to succeed as an attacking player in Major League Soccer. We look forward to helping him reach his potential.”
The 22-year-old striker scored a brace in the second half against UPSL side Sporting AZ at Kino Sports Complex in Tucson.
