Martin “Coach Jake” Jacobson, class of 1963, was introduced by fellow graduating classmate and Wall of Fame member, Howard Apple. Apple spoke about how “Coach Jake” impacted thousands of youngsters while winning multiple state championships and coach of the year awards. Coach Jake stated of all the places he has been in his life; Long Beach is still the place he calls home.

Martin Jacobson, also known as Coach Jake, is an educator who has worked in Public Schools over 45 years as a coach, teacher, counselor and athletic director. A native New Yorker, born in Brooklyn, Coach Jake believes that we are on earth for two reasons; to learn life’s lessons and to help others.

Coach Jake was honored at the New York City Soccer Gala.

The United Soccer Coaches Letter of Commendation is presented to an individual(s) or entity for service to, impact, and/or positive influence on the association and/or the game of soccer in the United States. Recipients of this award must be United Soccer Coaches members.

Coach Jake has been awarded this Letter of Commendation for a career of exceptional service in the sport of soccer.

On January 18th, 2023, the MLK Knights and MLK Jr. Educational campus, honored Coach Jake by dedicating the futsal field in his name! Coach Jake was an integral part of the creation and implementation of this field from conception to completion.

Congressman Jerry Nadler, rose to honor the Martin Luther King High School Soccer Team, which has achieved a New York City Public School Athletic League record 5th consecutive title this year. The MLK soccer team coached by Martin Jacobson has battled many of the top teams in the city and has continually prevailed.