Woodford mentor John Houston said Jackson's century in the Victorian Premier Cricket first XI grand final was testament to his character.

Jackson, 18, made 122 against Carlton. He faced 178 balls on his way to his third ton in his first top-grade season. His innings included 10 fours and two sixes an helped the Cats to 9-409 on Saturday.

But Carlton reeled in the total on Sunday courtesy of an Evan Gulbis' century to win the three-day final by three wickets.

Houston said Jackson's debut season highlighted his potential.

"It's one level below state and to be able to go there and make three centuries (is amazing)," he said. "You know he has ability but it's a pretty huge thing to do, especially as an 18-year-old.

"He backs himself and he's been aggressive. He's got all the shots and knows when to use them and he has a good temperament."

Houston said Jackson showed that poise when, aged just 15, he made 72 in Woodford's 2015-16 Warrnambool and District Cricket Association premiership.

"He's one of those players who when he steps up a level it doesn't worry him, he seems to thrive on it," he said. "It's a great trait to have. A lot of people freeze up in those moments." 

Jackson played alongside fellow WDCA exports Brody Couch and Tim Ludeman in the VPC grand final.

Couch, 19, finished with one wicket. Jackson and Couch came through the Western Waves' state development program together.

"It (their progression) is a pat on the back for the Waves' set-up and Stephen Field for what he's done for a long period of time," Houston said.

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