One of the most talented wide receivers in Fayette’s history is moving on to play at the college level. Senior Chase Allen-Jackman signed a letter of intent on Wednesday to play for NCAA DII Washburn University next season.

Out of all the offers he received, Jackman said he chose Washburn because he expects to make a splash in the Ichabod offense.

“They’re a winning program. I feel like I can go there and really strive with how the offense works,” Jackman said. “The players, the coaches, even the starting quarterback reached out to me after my visit. It really felt like a family. I like the type of people they were both on and off the field.”

Jackman was a unanimous selection as a receiver for the Class 1 All-State team this season after hauling in 75 catches for 1,060 yards with 12 touchdowns. He was also named Offensive Player of the Year as a first-team All-Conference selection.

The move up to college football is the next step in Jackman’s dream of playing in the National Football League. “That’s my dream. I want to be the first guy from Fayette to do that. I want to be a role model for people, too.”

Fayette coach Mike Thompson was on hand for the signing and said he believes Jackman is prepared for the next level of football.

“Obviously, he’s worked really hard for this moment,” Thompson said. “I know he’s really excited to be going and ready to get moving. I’m really excited for him.”

Washburn finished 7-4 a year ago, culminating with a 37-20 win over Missouri Southern University. Washburn is located in Topeka, Kansas, and competes in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association. Last season, the team was honored with 18 All-MIAA selections and four Division II Conference Commissioner’s Association All-Region picks. 

Washburn will return quarterback Kellen Simoncic, who, as a sophomore last season, threw for 2,354 yards on 195 of 312 passing with 25 touchdowns. He owns the school single-game completion record with 35. 

The Ichabod lost a host of wide receivers but have already signed 11 for next season, including Jackman.

“It’s a big step in school; it’s a big step in a program,” Thompson said. “Hopefully, he’ll have a great experience. It’s different in college. It’s a challenge, and he’ll have a lot of competition when he gets there. It’ll be a new experience for him. I’m looking forward to watching him develop and watching him play football. I think he’s prepared, and he should be ready to compete.”

Around two dozen family members, teammates, coaches, and friends were on hand for last week’s signing.

Jackman said he plans to major in business administration.

“I want to thank God, my family, my friends, my community, and anybody who has supported me,” Jackman said. “Not everyone gets to play football and be good at it. I’m blessed to be in a position to do this. Thank you, Fayette !”