“I give myself permission to say no”: How Jayden Jackson finds balance and purpose on and off the court

12 to 18 May is National Careers Week in Australia. To celebrate, Wheelchair Rugby Australia is proud highlight some of the amazing stories of our athletes happening off the court.

Jayden Jackson’s debut for the Australian Steelers earlier this year was just one of the many impressive things happening in his life.

From competing and training, to speaking engagements in the juvenile justice system and modelling, Jayden fills his days with structure and purpose. We caught up with him to talk through some of the strategies that help him find balance.

Jayden Jackson at the 2025 Japan Para Championships.

1. How do you structure your day to accommodate both your training and career development activities?

I keep a consistent daily structure to manage both training and career commitments. I typically train in the gym three times a week and have three court sessions, which are scheduled around my speaking engagements and modelling work. I block out time each day for professional development – whether that’s prepping for a talk, working on brand shoots, or reading about psychology, which I’m looking to study. I also make sure to include time for recovery, healthy meals, and a bit of gaming or time by the ocean to reset mentally.

2. What methods do you use to ensure that both your sporting and career goals receive adequate attention?

I prioritise by setting weekly goals and using a planner to structure my time. I treat training sessions and career tasks as equally important appointments, and I’m strict about sticking to those blocks. I also check in with myself weekly to reassess what’s working and make adjustments when needed. I focus on being fully present in whatever I’m doing – so when I’m on court, I’m focused on performance, and when I’m working on a talk or a modelling project, that gets my full attention.

3. In what ways do your coaches assist or encourage your career aspirations outside of sport?

My coaches are really supportive of my life outside of sport. They understand that I’m working on a broader career, and they encourage me to keep pursuing those goals. They help me manage my training load around public speaking or work commitments, and they’re always checking in to make sure I’m not burning out. Their flexibility and encouragement make it possible for me to keep growing both as an athlete and as a professional.

4. How does the support from your family and friends help you in balancing your dual commitments?

My family and friends are a big part of my support system. They keep me grounded, remind me to rest, and cheer me on whether I’m on or off the court. They understand the pressure of balancing everything and are always there to help, whether it’s through a listening ear or helping with logistics when my schedule gets hectic. Their belief in me keeps me motivated.

5. What strategies do you employ to maintain a sustainable balance between your sport and career development over time?

Sustainability for me is about balance and self-awareness. I make sure to listen to my body and mind. If I need rest, I take it. I follow a clean, structured diet to support my energy levels and performance. I also plan ahead so I’m not overwhelmed, and I give myself permission to say no when I need to. I stay flexible and adapt my routines when life changes, which helps me stay in it for the long haul.

6. How has pursuing a career outside of sport positively impacted your overall wellbeing and athletic performance?

Pursuing a career outside of sport has actually improved my performance and wellbeing. Speaking in the juvenile justice system over the last 18 months gives me a sense of purpose beyond competition, and modelling has boosted my confidence and self-expression. These experiences keep me mentally sharp, emotionally balanced, and give me something to look forward to beyond the next game. Having multiple passions keeps me motivated and makes me a more well-rounded athlete and person.