Scott Jackson, the assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of North Carolina baseball program, has been honored as the ABCA/Soldier Sports DI National Assistant Coach of the Year, marking the first time a Tar Heel has received the distinction since the award’s inception in 1999.
A Historic Award
Jackson’s achievement reflects a decade of service that began with his hiring as a graduate assistant and has seen him rise to a pivotal role in shaping the Tar Heels’ roster and strategy.
During his tenth season with the Tar Heels, Jackson has overseen a dramatic offensive surge, helping the 2026 squad amass 550 runs — a new program record that propelled the team to a top‑three national ranking in scoring.
The same team finished ninth in the country for hits with 672 and fourth for walks with 376, underscoring a disciplined and powerful lineup that advanced to the finals of the Men’s College World Series.
Defensively, the Tar Heels set a new fielding percentage record of .982, surpassing the previous high of .979 established by the 2011 and 2017 teams that Jackson also coached, a testament to his influence on both sides of the ball.
Jackson’s dual impact on offense and defense illustrates the breadth of his responsibilities, from player development to scouting, and reflects the program’s commitment to holistic excellence.
As the Tar Heels look ahead, Jackson’s recognition serves as a catalyst for continued success, promising further milestones for a program that continues to attract top talent and compete at the highest level of collegiate baseball.