Leading by Example - Athlete of the Month for February: Carmayla Jackson

Carmayla Jackson delivered a statement month in February, anchoring Olympic College on both ends of the floor and earning Athlete of the Month honors through her physical presence, efficiency, and consistency in key conference matchups. Let's meet Carmayla and her inspiring approach to athletics. 

1. What does be named Athlete of the Month mean to you personally and as a member of the Olympic College athletics community?

Being name athlete of the month because it reflects my hard work I've been putting into my game. This motivates me to work harder and reminds me that my work is paying off. 

2. Looking back on the past few weeks, what moment or performance stands out most in your mind?

Probably my 28-point game. That game really affected me personally and it etched a pathway for my confidence to continue to grow 

3. How have your coaches and teammates helped you grow or succeed this season?

They have helped me by pushing me outside of my comfort zone and continuing to challenge me to be better for myself on and off the court 

4. What motivates you to keep improving—both in your sport and in the classroom?

What motivates me is just knowing I'm not at a standstill. I'm moving forward and embracing my dream. Especially knowing and reminding myself that I can do better and be better.

5. What are you currently studying at Olympic College, and how does your major connect to your goals for the future?

I am currently studying psychology, and this major connects to my goals by being able to understand my mind and more and eventually being able to give back to young people of my community by being someone they can talk to. 

6. What's one area of your game you've focused on developing this year, and how has that paid off?

One area of my game I've focused on is developing my efficiency around the rim and that has paid off by showing my growth compared to last year to now 

7. Outside of competition, what do you enjoy most about being a student-athlete at Olympic College?

I enjoy the community and being able to enjoy college and not just be serious 100% of the time. 

8. What are your goals for the rest of the season, and how do you hope to build on this momentum?

My goals are just to continue to grow and better myself, mentally and physically. I hope to build on this momentum and let it keep pushing me to not give up. 

The freshman forward opened February with a dominant all‑around performance against Whatcom, scoring 17 points on 8‑of‑14 shooting while controlling the paint in a crucial NWAC win. She followed that with a flawless night at Everett, going 6‑for‑6 from the field for 12 points, adding eight rebounds, four steals, and two blocks in a gritty road victory, then capped the stretch by owning the glass in an overtime thriller at Bellevue with a career‑high 19 rebounds. While her impact shows clearly in the box score, Jackson's influence goes deeper—choosing to lead by example rather than volume, she brings a steady, work‑first presence that teammates feed off and opponents are forced to respect.