DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The Lincoln Square Theater welcomed hundreds of guests and ticketholders for an exclusive evening with Seattle Seahawk signee, Jacardia Wright, Friday evening.
Born and raised in Decatur, the St. Teresa grad was welcomed back with a celebration by Decatur locals, members of the Bulldog community, and former coaches.
Jacardia was a three-time Macon County Player of the Year, before going on to play college football at Kansas State and Missouri State. He would sign a free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks during the 2025-26 season before suffering a season-ending injury. Still, he was part of a Seahawks team that would go on to win Super Bowl 60 over the New England Patriots in February.
During the event, a 2-part mini-documentary shared details about Jacardia's journey to the NFL. The film featured interviews with his stepparents, fellow players from his time at St. Teresa, and coaches from throughout his life.
In addition, Jacardia was brought on stage in the theater for a roundtable Q&A session, including stories from those who had the chance to coach and mentor him in Decatur.
"I remember talking to him after he came back after his first year at K-State and I could just tell by talking to him that he had really gotten [mature]," said former St. Teresa head coach Mark Ramsey. "His work habits, everything. He had a goal in mind. Everybody has asked me over the course of this long coaching career, 'Who's the best player that you ever coached?' And my answer is always the same - Jacardia Wright."
Throughout the evening, guests in attendance including many young football players were shared the simple message of not giving up. It was made clear early on that Jacardia's goal was to play in the NFL. He hopes his story will inspire others to chase the same objective or goals of their own.
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