Salesianum midfielder Jason Blackwell named High School Player of the Year for Delaware

Senior midfielder Jason Blackwell became the ninth player from Salesianum School named a Gatorade Delaware Boys Soccer Player of the Year on Monday.

The 6-foot, 180-pound midfielder led Salesianum to a 16-1-1 record and a Division 1 state title in the fall. Blackwell had 15 goals and 14 assists, including a goal and an assist in a 2-0 win over Appoquinimink High in the state title match to win his fourth title.

“Jason’s ability to control the midfield physically and vocally was second to none,” said Kyle Ellis, head coach of Caravel Academy, in a news release. “Jason is a gifted player technically, but more importantly he is a leader on and off the field.” 

Blackwell plays his club soccer for Delaware Rush and played for Kirkwood Soccer Club when he was younger. As a state winner, he becomes a finalist for the Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year, which will be announced later this month.

Blackwell was the lone player from greater Philadelphia to receive a player of the year honor for 2016-17. The Pennsylvania award went out west to Kiski School’s David Egbo and the New Jersey award went to Seton Hall Prep and Players Development Academy forward Mason Toye.

Click here to see all of the state winners.