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A fixture in the Jesuit Dallas track & field program, Jan Materka’s impact on the community extends far beyond his 20-plus years of service working the finish line at the famed Sheaner Relays.

Behind a bevy of postseason accolades and school records, Materka is one of the most distinguished middle distance runners in the annals of Jesuit.

Starting his high school athletic career with two years of football and one season on the swimming & diving team, Materka quickly emerged as a track star. He established a freshman record in the 880-yard run before finishing third in the event at the TCIL State Championships as a sophomore.

Materka exploded onto the state scene as a junior, copping TCIL All-State accolades in cross country before winning his first individual state title in the 880y at the 1971 TCIL State Championships. He replicated the all-state distinction in cross country as a senior and powered to his second consecutive outdoor state crown in the 880y with a stunning five-second victory.

A cross country and track & field team captain, Materka was named Team MVP following both seasons. During his career with Jesuit, Materka broke the school record on multiple occasions in the 440y and the 880y. He was also an integral member on three different record-setting relays (4x440y, mile, two mile).

Materka accepted a scholarship offer from the University of New Mexico upon graduation, and ultimately graduated from SMU with a degree in business.