As part of the partnership between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Andrew Jackson High School, Jaguars Assistant Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator Mel Tucker was the keynote speaker at the school's open house held Monday night, September 10th. 

Coach Tucker made a point to first address the parents, teachers and coaches directly, thanking them for the important role they play in their students' lives.  He stated that without them, these students would not have the support they need to succeed.  

Coach Tucker went on to tell the students his personal story of getting to college.  While in high school, two teachers continuously encouraged him to pursue higher education, expounding upon the opportunities that only college could afford him.   He credits them for his decision to go to college and he was fortunate to obtain a football scholarship at the University of Wisconsin.  He added that he still would have attended college, perhaps the local community college in Cleveland, had he not received a football scholarship.

Before attending the University of Wisconsin, Tucker was a standout basketball and football player at Cleveland Heights High School.  In college he was a four-year letterman as a defensive back, and graduated with a degree in agricultural business management.  His coaching career has spanned 16 years including college and the NFL.

Coach Tucker was joined by T-Neisha Tate, Jaguars Foundation Program Coordinator, and Peter Racine, Foundation President.  The presence at the school is part of the Jaguars' partnership with Andrew Jackson High School.*  *As a corporate partner, the team is making a significant investment in the students at the school.  Through the support of the Jaguars owner, coaches, players and staff, along with other community and corporate partners, the goal is to return Andrew Jackson High School to its tradition of excellence.  Jaguars players, coaches, cheerleaders and staff will be participating in various events at the school throughout the year.