Jacob Merrell, a 2010 Pioneer High School graduate, is in elite company.

Merrell, a four-year member of the Pioneer boys crew team, was one of 14 athletes in the nation chosen to compete for the U.S. Junior National rowing team.

“It’s been a goal of his since his freshman year when he really took to the sport,” said Merrell’s Pioneer coach Rich Griffith, who instantly saw Merrell’s potential.

The former Pioneer is currently competing in the Men’s Fours in Racice, Czech Republic for the Junior World Championships, which run through Sunday.

“I’m not surprised (about his selection),” Griffith continued. “He just brings tremendous physicality. It’s kind of a pain contest, rowing is. It’s a matter of how hard you’re going to push your body. He’s going to push his body to that barrier.

“He’ll row the thing through a brick wall; he’s that kind of kid.”

Merrell was a recipient of Pioneer’s Clarence Illi Award, given annually to the top male and female senior athletes. He qualified for two national final events while at Pioneer, as well.

Last year, Merrell was named to the U.S. Junior development team before earning a spot on the official national squad this year.

Come fall, Merrell will compete for the University of Washington, which is one of the top-five rowing programs in the country, according to Griffith.

To follow Merrell’s results in the Junior Worlds, click here.

Kaleb Roedel is a sports writer for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734)623-2562 and e-mailed at kalebroedel@annarbor.com.