Nathan Polak

Nathan Polak - Waterloo High School
Athletic Hall of Fame Induction 2022

Nathan Polak was a multi-sport star for the Waterloo Panthers in the late ‘90s and early 2000s. He set the pace and lettered four times in football, basketball, and track while in high school. Waterloo Head Football Coach Darin Ahrens said, “Nate was a kid that could do a lot of things and play any skill position because of his athletic abilities and intelligence. We played him at quarterback and gave him a lot of run-pass options. He was a leader and playmaker and never came off the field. He led us to the state playoffs his senior year. “

Nathan also excelled on the track. He was a multi-event state qualifier in his sophomore, junior, and senior seasons. However, possibly his greatest track accomplishment was at the East Central Nebraska Conference meet in 2001.  Coach Gib Hall stated, “Nate Polack was one of those rare athletes who moved with such ease, grace, and agility that he made difficult things look easy and effortless. Speaking of effort, Nate was no stranger to giving great effort! He captured a triple crown championship by winning the 800, 1600, and 3200 meter runs and was a member of the 2nd place two-mile relay.  His schedule of events that day was unbelievable; four miles of competitive running in one meet!” 

The sport that Nathan loved the most and where he left his biggest mark was on the basketball court.  He was a prolific scorer and all-around team player who led the Panthers to the state basketball tournament in 2000 and 2001; the first time Waterloo had been to the tournament in 72 years.  Former Waterloo Head Basketball Coach Ron Michael stated, “Nathan was an unselfish and confident leader by example. He always put the team before his accomplishments.  It is also hard to talk about Nathan without mentioning his twin brother Brian. They took us on a basketball journey that ended at the state tournament two years in a row. This level of basketball success was unprecedented in Waterloo history.”

For the last seven years, Nathan has worked in the elevator and escalator service and repair industry.  Please welcome Waterloo Panther great, Nathan Polak to the DC West Hall of Fame!