A life with deep purpose: Thanks to donors, student-athlete Jackson Findlay has big ambitions
By Cassie Dowse, special to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Communications
Wake up at 4 a.m. Coach women’s football. Head to the gym to train. Zip home for a quick meal. Walk to class. Go to football practice. Study on the bus on route to a volunteer gig. Go home and work on an assignment before bed.
Sound overwhelming? For football athlete and Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry Medical Sciences student Jackson Findlay, it’s a preferred routine.
“Everything I do has purpose, and helps me focus and be my best self,” said the Mustangs football defensive back.
At age 11, Findlay volunteered at a baseball camp in his home of Vancouver, British Columbia, which sparked his interest in working with children – and may have set the course for his career.
“Working with kids is a passion of mine. I want to be a paediatric oncologist to give children with cancer a fighting chance,” said Findlay.
In his drive to help children while balancing a busy school workload, Findlay and fellow Mustangs athletes volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club (BGC) of London every week. As vice-president of the Mustangs Athlete Student Council, he helps recruit students to support this important initiative.
“I was drawn to volunteer with BGC because the organization provides vital programming for kids that helps them reach their full potential and be surrounded by a community of support. Playing sports with the kids is a joy, and it means a lot for us to be able to give back.”
Football is in the DNA
Findlay’s family has a deep history in professional football. His father, uncle, grandfather and great-grandfather each played for the Canadian Football League (CFL). However, his father didn’t pressure Findlay to uphold the family tradition.
“I started out as a hockey goalie because I loved getting in front of the puck, but it was my coach who recognized my potential as a footballer. He got my dad on board.”
After playing in high school, Findlay had ambitions to achieve a medical degree at a world-renowned university and to join one of the best football teams in Canada. Western was his number one choice.
“Schulich Medicine provided the opportunity to specialize in biochemistry and cancer genetics,” said Findlay. “Cancer affects so many people and is seemingly impossible to cure. I want to be part of that research.”
The MVP
Photo credits (Steven Anderson)
When Findlay arrived on campus in 2021, it was an exciting time. With the Mustangs, he had a built-in support system with others who understood the pressures of being a student-athlete.
While Findlay misses his parents and brother, the family atmosphere at Western means he hasn’t been homesick.
“I’m fortunate to have teammates who invite me for family Thanksgivings and other occasions, and my parents were able to visit for a few games last year.”
Findlay was recently named the 2023-24 season’s Most Valuable Player – well-deserved recognition for his work on the field and the positive attitude he brings to the team.
Donors make dreams a reality
Findlay has received valuable support from donors throughout his time at Western. With his heavy schedule, working throughout school isn’t possible.
“Being a student-athlete is a massive undertaking,” said Findlay. “We have commitments to school and to the team. It can be very stressful. I wouldn’t be at Western without donors. I love it here and I couldn’t have had this experience at any other school in the country.”
Findlay said it’s the community spirit that makes Western unique.
“As athletes and academics, we wouldn’t be successful without fans, alumni and donors.”
After completing his undergraduate degree, Findlay plans to pursue a medical degree while playing for the CFL – scheduling school and a clerkship around the football season. It’s an ambitious plan but with his instinct to make a positive difference, Findlay will undoubtedly achieve greatness.
Findlay volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club of London.
I wouldn’t be at Western without donors. I love it here and I couldn’t have had this experience at any other school in the country.”
-Jackson Findlay
Donors are pivotal for the Mustangs
Mustangs football head coach Greg Marshall knows no matter the sport, donors build a culture where student-athletes are poised to succeed.
“Western has the best group of alumni and donors in Canada,” said Marshall. “They not only provide generous financial support, but they show up to games and events. They help us recruit the best in the country.”
Donor-funded awards enabled the Mustangs to recruit Findlay.
“Jackson is an outstanding individual and a high-achieving student. He’s a quiet leader and treats everyone with respect. He models everything that makes our team strong and passes that on to younger players.”
Western’s coaches, staff and student-athletes are grateful for the faithful community of athletics donors who help make dreams – like Findlay’s – come true.
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