Kenny Jackson to Throw out First Pitch at Spikes Home Opener

The State College Spikes have announced that former Penn State All-American Kenny Jackson will be at Medlar Field at Lubrano Park on Opening Night to throw out the ceremonial first pitch on June 20^th.  Jackson was a member of the 1982 National Championship squad and went on to have an eight-year career in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Oilers.

Jackson, who currently resides in State College, PA , was Penn State’s first All-American at the wide receiver position and when he graduated in 1983, he held 27 school records and still ranks second in career receiving yards with 2,006.  His best season came during the magical 1982 season when he hauled in 41 passes, including seven touchdowns, for 697 yards en route to Penn State’s first national championship.

Kenny was later selected in the first round, four overall, in the 1984 NFL Draft. Following his playing career, Jackson served on the Penn State coaching staff from 1993 until the 2000 season before moving on to the professional ranks as an assistant with the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2001 to 2003.

Jackson will be the third former Penn State All-American to visit Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, as D.J Dozier and Shane Conlan participated in Blue & White night during the 2006 season.

Gates will open at 5:00 PM for opening night festivities which include a pre-game performance by national recording artist Illinois, as well as free hot-air balloon rides. Tickets are still available for Tuesday’s 7:05 game and they can be purchased over the phone by calling 877-99-SPIKES, by visiting the Medlar Field at Lubrano Park box office, or click here.