Jordan selected for Perfect Game All-American Classic

By Courtney Warren

Dakota Jordan is ready to fulfill one of his childhood dreams, and that is playing in the Annual Perfect Game All-American Classic. 

Finishing the busiest summer of his athletic career, Jordan said, “I’m really starting to feel the pressure now that I’m entering my senior year. I haven’t had a break in play, but I’ve loved every minute on the field.”

A Canton native, Jordan will be attending Jackson Academy in the fall, where he will play football and baseball. 

The Classic was a game Jordan has watched for many years. 

“It’s a great opportunity, and it’s been a dream of mine. I watched Perfect Game and h

ow they selected these MLB players to play in their showcases. I know it’s going to be fun and a great opportunity. I’m really blessed to be part of it all,” he said.  
Jordan, an outfielder, said his focus this summer was timing. 

“Right now, I’m focusing on my timing to hit faster pitching. My timing was off at the beginning of the summer, and I’ve made some improvements. There’s always more to learn, so I’m just staying focused and putting in the work,” he said. 

While Jordan’s mom, Carolyn, won’t be able to attend the Classic, he knows she’ll be back home in Canton rooting him on. 

“My mom and coaches have been there since day one. There’s no way I’d be able to do any of this without them. Even while I was in school, they were setting up my summer schedule. My mom is always there to support me along with my coaches,” said Jordan.  

While in San Diego, the players will participate in a series of baseball-related activities. In the weeks leading up to the event, players will have the opportunity to participate in a fundraising effort to help support pediatric cancer patients at the Peckham Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Rady Children’s Hospital.

“The Perfect Game Cares Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity, is proud to partner with our 2021 All-American players to raise important funds for children undergoing pediatric cancer treatment at Rady Children’s Hospital,” said Jennifer Ford, Executive Director of the Perfect Game Cares Foundation in a press release. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these beautiful children.”

The rosters for the 2021 All-American Classic were chosen by a panel of talent evaluators assembled by Perfect Game, after being scouted and identified through a series of tournaments and events, including Perfect Game’s National Showcase, which took place in St. Petersburg, Fla., July 14-18.

When Major League Baseball began its 2021 Championship Season, there were 87 Perfect Game All-American players on the Opening Day rosters of 28 of the 30 Major League teams. The Atlanta Braves boasted the most Perfect Game All-Americans, with six, including reigning NL MVP Freddie Freeman.

 Jordan said his dream is to play in Major League Baseball, and he knows being on the Perfect Game roster is just one step closer. “I’m so excited to see what’s in store, and I’m grateful for all of these amazing opportunities,” he said.

The Perfect Game All-American Classic will be streamed live on PerfectGame.TV. For more information, visit www.perfectgame.org. You can help by donating at www.perfectgamecares.org/event/PGAAC21.