Induction Year: 1983

 

Mary Zita McHale Jacoby, a standout from the Oak Cliff area of Dallas, earned the nickname "Iron Man McHale" for her exceptional endurance and skill on the tennis court.

 

While attending Dallas Oak Cliff High School, she secured the UIL state singles titles in both the 1924-1925 and 1925-1926 school years. Throughout the 1930s and early 1940s, Jacoby dominated Texas women’s tennis, excelling in both singles and doubles competitions.

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In 1931, Jacoby made a significant impact on the national stage by winning the National Public Parks Championship in singles. She also partnered with Charlotte MacQuiston to clinch the doubles title. Her extraordinary tenacity was further demonstrated at the 1931 Waco Open, held at Cameron Park, where she played five matches in a single day and emerged victorious in three categories: singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.