Click here to read more Cougar Corner profiles JACOB KLEMENTICH OVERCOMING OLYMPIC HURDLES “Never give up.”Those words may be easy to say, but for one University of Houston alumnus, they’re a daily part of his life. In 1982, Jacob Klementich (1994) was hit by a car while crossing the street. He was 14 years old at the time. That accident left him with a severe head injury that forever changed his life. He was diagnosed with both physical and mental disabilities after his accident, which left him unable to walk and talk. Instead of giving up, Klementich set a goal to succeed. During high school, his physical therapist introduced him to Paralympics. He has competed in the 1992 Paralympics Games in Barcelona, Spain, and the Atlanta Open Swim Meet at Georgia Tech in 1996 as part of the Atlanta Paralympics. He has competed in several recent events, including the 22nd Annual Multi-Ability Swim Meet in San Diego, California, and the 2006 National Collegiate Table Tennis Association’s College Table Tennis championships in Fort Worth,Texas. He also is a member of the Houston Challengers Wheelchair soccer team and will participate in the 7th Annual Endeavor Games for Athletes with Physical Disabilities in June 2006 in Edmond, Oklahoma. He credits the Challengers for much of his improvement since the accident. “I have improved not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well,” he said. And, he’s now pursuing a second degree at the University of Houston. “Before the accident, I didn’t pay attention to school.” Klementich conceded. “I decided to put more work into my studies. It forced me to grow up.” Klementich graduated from Aldine Contemporary Education Center, now part of Houston’s George Washington Carver High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Houston in 1994, and is currently pursuing a degree in kinesiology. He hopes to use his latest career choice to help raise funds for UH athletes. Klementich is a loyal alumnus. His brothers are also Cougars. Frank (1999) has a law degree and Robert (2003) has a degree in management. He is adept at raising funds for his studies and trips to Paralympic venues. Klementich receives financial support from his family, as well as Houston real estate developer and businessman George Mitchell, friend and coach Doug Beagle, and friends at the Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral in Houston. In addition to his many other achievements,Klementich has one more he would like to add - becoming a priest. “I feel like it’s a calling and something I would definitely like to pursue,” he said. Klementich would like to attend St.Mary’s seminary at the University of St. Thomas to pursue a degree in theology. Whatever the future holds, Klementich is certain to make the most of it, and never let his disabilities get in the way of success. ( more )