Bluffton, South Carolina - On Wednesday, April 3, 2024, Hilton Head Christian Academy (HHCA) Senior Jack Ussery signed to continue his athletic career this fall at the United States Naval Academy.  In attendance for the public ceremony were members of his family, fellow students, coaches and mentors, school leadership, and members of the media.

Countless hours of training and competition has led to an extensive list of impressive accolades. Ussery's potential success in the sport was evident early. In seventh grade, he was named as an All-State swimmer for Hilton Head Aquatics. He has since gone on to set multiple state records, qualify for nationals, and more. The U.S. Naval Academy first reached out to Jack in his sophomore year, and he officially committed to attend and swim for Navy last spring.

Ussery, whose achievements extend far beyond the pool, will graduate in May with a record of academic excellence in the classroom and a resume that demonstrates outstanding leadership and service to his community. In addition, Ussery built a successful business as a young entrepreneur. 

During the signing ceremony, he was cheered on by friends, mentors, coaches and teammates when he put "pen to paper", signifying his commitment to Navy. Ussery thanked those who have impacted his life and career and then coaches, mentors, and teammates prayed for him as he continues his athletic pursuits on the collegiate level. 
 

I'd like to thank a few people, beginning with God--for giving me the opportunity to do what I do best and to glorify Him through that, ultimately swimming for an Audience of One.

- Jack Ussery, HHCA Class of 2024

 

SWIMMING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Has been named an All-State Swimmer (Hilton Head Aquatics) every year since 7th Grade
• Qualified for USA Senior Nationals and the U.S. Open
• At Nationals Competition, Placed top 15 in Multiple Events
• 2X Team MVP both for club (Hilton Head Aquatics) & school team (HHCA)
• USA Swimming 2X Scholastic All American
• Holds South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) Records in four events (500 Freestyle, 100 Breastroke, 200 Indiv. Medley, 200 Freestyle)
• Holds South Carolina State Club Record (15-16 y/o) for Long Course 100 Breaststroke
• 6X Club Team South Carolina State Champion in 100 Breaststroke, 200 Indiv. Medley, 400 Freestyle & 200 Breaststroke

ACADEMIC & LEADERSHIP ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• 2023 Harvard Book Award Recipient
• Junior Marshall
• Member of National Honor Society & Spanish National Honor Society
• Multiple Times - Principal's Honor Roll 
• In his freshman year, Jack was a member of of the Inaugural HHCA Student Leadership Team (named "The Cage) and has been instrumental in creating a culture of positivity, school spirit, encouragement, and leadership throughout High School 
• As an Eagle Ambassador, a position selected by school leadership, Jack completed Leadership Training and was charged with welcoming new families into the HHCA community, helping new students feel connected and known, and advocating for HHCA within the broader community. 
• Jack is a successful entrepreneur, having established a mobile car detailing business in 2020 which has since grown to become net profitable and now serves 60 clients throughout the local area. He manages all aspects of the business such as cost of goods/overhead, inventory, providing a quality customer experience, and marketing.
• He has served as a Side Kick Coach through Hilton Head Aquatics, helping young swimmers develop proper techniques.
• He was an intern with the locally-owned consulting company Business on Purpose, focusing on client processes
• He also assisted with fundraising for Lowcountry Dress for Success, a non-profit that provides low-income students with uniforms for school