Jerry McNeal was recognized and found himself involved in Al Halley’s running corps early in his Southwest experience. Jerry did find time to be active in Hi-Y, and was a representative to Boys’ State. In high school, Jerry was awarded 6 varsity letters in Cross-Country and Track, and was elected Cross-Country Captain in 1953.
Jerry was 1st in City Meets in1952 and 1953, and led his team to the City Championship both years. Also, Jerry led his team to State Championships in 1952 and 1953. In so doing, Jerry set individual records in the 1953 City, Swain Invitational, St. James, and Hiawatha Golf Course Meets.
McNeal’s Southwest Track record has a similar ring. In 1953: a record for the Metropolitan Indoor Mile, 1st in the City Meet mile, and 3rd in the State Meet mile. In 1954: another record for the Indoor Metropolitan Mile, a record time in the City Meet mile, and 2nd in the State Meet mile.
Jerry accepted a Track and Cross-Country scholarship from The University of Kansas, where he excelled in both sports. In his KU years and the time since then, Jerry has compiled an amazing record of achievements and honors, a scant few of which are listed below:
Jerry was an executive with Daytons for 35 years. In his “retirement”, he has worked for 20 years as an elementary Teacher’s Aide, and also as an assistant Cross-Country and Track coach at Minnetonka High School. Jerry and his wife live in Minnetonka; their 5 children live in the Minneapolis area.