EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) – Effingham senior quarterback Jaxon Bridges is the latest WCIA 3 Athlete of the Week.

Bridges is off to a promising beginning in the 2025 campaign. During the Hearts’ victory against Mt. Carmel in week two, he set three program records: passing yards, passing attempts, and passing completions.

He completed 30 of 39 pass attempts, going for 390 yards as Effingham won 35-14.

“I’ve become much stronger and faster,” Bridges said regarding his growth from junior to senior year. “Additionally, my footwork has improved tremendously since last year. We anticipated passing the ball frequently. While breaking records wasn’t the primary game plan, it always is. Our focus is to perform at our best both offensively and defensively.”

“He’s more comfortable, more confident, and has a much better pre-snap understanding of the look he’s facing and where to direct the football, which has proven effective for us thus far,” stated Effingham head football coach Brett Hefner.

Bridges is now eligible for a $1,500 cash prize which will be given to one boy and one girl at the end of the school year.

To nominate a local high school varsity athlete for Athlete of the Week, click here.