Jerry Walker began officiating track and field at the University of Iowa by working the Big 10 Indoor at the request of Coach Cretzmeyer. He was assigned umpiring duty and called a violation on an outstanding runner (eventually an Olympian) from Illinois! The young man promised never to return to Iowa City again, and Jerry thought this should have been the end of his officiating. Soon after, Jerry became the coordinator for University officials and began timing and judging high school meets in the vicinity.
While in high school, he was a star Track and Cross Country athlete, at Marion High School leading Marion to State team Championships in Cross Country in 1951, ’52 and ’53. Jerry was also the individual Class A State Cross Country Champion in 1952 and ’53. In track, Jerry won the Class A Iowa State Mile Run in 1953 and ’54, as well as the 880 yard run in 1954 and was the 1953 Mile Run Champion at the Drake Relays. Jerry has also been inducted into the Marion High School Hall of Fame.
Jerry states, “It has been enjoyable to watch the younger performers mature and participate in the greatest sport, track and field. Working with other officials, many teachers, has given me a deep respect and admiration of their work, and was an important factor for my persistence as an official.”