Jackson Newell 

Hometown: Leechburg, Pennsylvania 

High School: Kiski Area 

Major: Business (Marketing and Management) 

Year: Junior 

Sport(s):  Men's Tennis 

What made you want to attend Penn State Altoona? 

I was drawn to Penn State Altoona because of the strong sense of community and the opportunity to compete as a student-athlete while receiving a Penn State education. The smaller campus environment allowed me to build relationships with professors, which has helped me so much.  

How did you get your start in your sport? 

I started playing tennis at a young age and quickly fell in love with both the competitive and mental sides of the game. Over time, competing in matches and training regularly helped me realize I wanted to continue playing at the collegiate level. 

You served as a Court Operations Intern at the Cincinnati Open this past summer. How would you describe that experience? 

The Cincinnati Open was an incredible experience because it allowed me to see professional tennis from behind the scenes. Working in court operations taught me how much coordination and teamwork goes into running a major sporting event. I was able to work closely with officials, players, and staff, which strengthened my communication and problem-solving skills while giving me valuable exposure to the sports industry. 

What are some of your favorite memories from your time as a Penn State Altoona student-athlete so far? 

Some of my favorite memories come from traveling with the team, competing in close matches, and building strong friendships with my teammates. Winning tough matches together and supporting each other through both wins and losses has made the experience really meaningful. 

Do you have any mentors or role models at Penn State Altoona? If so, how have they helped you improve as a person? 

My coaches and teammates have been strong mentors for me. They've helped me develop leadership skills, and a stronger work ethic. They've pushed me to improve not just as a player, but as a teammate and person off the court as well. 

Outside of sports, what do you hope to accomplish during your time at Penn State Altoona? 

Outside of athletics, I hope to continue growing professionally through internships and business opportunities, especially in marketing and management. I want to build real-world experience, expand my network, and develop skills that will help me succeed after graduation. 

What career role would you like to have in the future? How is Penn State Altoona helping you reach that goal? 

In the future, I would like to work in marketing, management, or sports business. Penn State Altoona is helping me reach that goal through hands-on learning opportunities, internships, supportive faculty, and experiences that allow me to apply classroom concepts in real-world situations. 

What advice would you give to a freshman student-athlete? 

Take advantage of every opportunity and manage your time well from the start. Build relationships with your teammates and professors; it will go far. 

Rapid Fire 

-Who is your favorite professional and collegiate sports team? Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State ofc 

-Who is your favorite professional athlete? Novak Djokovic   

-Do you have any pregame rituals? Listening to music and focusing on visualization before the match. I always give my teammates a handshake and good luck before every single match since freshman year. 

-Altoona Pizza (Altoona Pizza is pizza with a thicker crust and is topped with tomato sauce, American cheese, green peppers, and salami): yay or nay?  No thank you! 

-What is your go-to order at Port Sky? Grilled Chicken wrap and an apple.   

-Outside of playing sports, what are your hobbies? Working out and making money mainly. I also enjoy music, spending time with friends, and watching sports. 

-What would your teammates say you are famous for doing? Keeping the energy high and staying competitive in everything.