Jacob started playing soccer at just 3 years old, kicking off his journey with AYSO and joining a travel team in kindergarten. What started as being "dragged across the county" soon turned into a deep passion. Soccer runs in the family — his brothers Matthew (30) and Andrew (25) both played, with Matthew continuing at Rochester Christian College.

Jacob transferred to Lake Shore in 2nd grade and made his mark sophomore year, scoring a game-winner vs. Liggett in the final 2 minutes at home — a moment he describes as "ecstatic."

He proudly wears #22, a number that reminds him of his "22 reasons to keep playing." Two of those reasons are:
-To honor his brothers and continue the legacy they began
-For his soon-to-be nephew, who he's already envisioning on the field one day

His closest friendship in soccer has been with Jake Lucido — teammates for 9 years. "He's a leader — someone you want to follow, be around, and soak up everything he offers."

The coach who's impacted him most? His brother Matthew, who coached him on the ThunderCats. "No special treatment — just tough love. He elevated my game and helped shape me into the player I am today."

Jacob is driven by faith, his family, and a dream:
Goal: Win a state championship — a mission he's had since freshman year.

He's dedicated over 40 hours a week to soccer — like a full-time job. Inspired by soccer games that were played by his brothers at the Silverdome, encouraged by his parents Ed and Robin, and forever grounded in the love of his late grandmother who passed in 2024 at 96 years old — "She was my comfort, and her waffles were the best."

Jacob Gross is more than just an athlete — he's a legacy in motion.