NEWS JUST: Wishing a happy retirement to Equipment Manager Jay Sears after 50 years of service with the Hoosiers!

A Legacy of Dedication: Honoring Jay Sears’ 50-Year Career with the Hoosiers

After an incredible five decades of service to Indiana University athletics, Equipment Manager Jay Sears has announced his retirement, marking the end of a truly extraordinary career. A fixture in the Hoosiers’ athletic program, Sears’ impact has spanned generations, leaving an indelible mark on student-athletes, coaches, and staff alike.

Sears began his journey with Indiana University in 1974, joining the equipment staff as a young, eager professional passionate about supporting athletes. Over the years, his role grew far beyond managing gear. He became a trusted confidant, mentor, and integral part of the IU sports community. Sears was a steady presence on the sidelines, ensuring athletes had everything they needed to succeed—from the latest equipment innovations to words of encouragement before game time.

His unwavering commitment to excellence and attention to detail earned him the respect of countless players and coaches. From carefully maintaining helmets and uniforms to ensuring every piece of equipment met the highest safety standards, Sears’ meticulous work often went unnoticed by fans but was essential to the success of the program. He understood that behind every great athlete is a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to support them, and he took pride in his role as a cornerstone of that support system.

Over 50 years, Sears witnessed the evolution of college athletics firsthand. He adapted to the changing demands of the job, embracing technological advancements in equipment and sports science while maintaining the personal touch that defined his approach. His consistency and reliability provided a sense of continuity for the Hoosiers during times of transition, from coaching changes to facility upgrades.

Sears’ career highlights include being part of historic moments in IU athletics, from championship seasons to unforgettable rivalry games. Yet, what he valued most was the relationships he built along the way. Generations of athletes fondly recall his kindness, humor, and wisdom. Coaches lauded him for his professionalism and dedication, often referring to him as the “heart and soul” of the program.

As he steps away from his role, Sears leaves behind a legacy of excellence and loyalty that will inspire future generations. His influence extends far beyond equipment rooms and locker rooms—he shaped the culture of IU athletics, emphasizing hard work, teamwork, and a deep love for the game.

Indiana University Athletics Director Scott Dolson described Sears as “a living embodiment of what it means to be a Hoosier.” Dolson continued, “Jay’s contributions over the past 50 years are immeasurable. He has been a mentor and friend to so many, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”

While his daily presence will be missed, Sears’ retirement offers an opportunity to celebrate his unparalleled career and thank him for half a century of dedication. His legacy as a true Hoosier will endure, and he can now enjoy a well-deserved retirement, surrounded by family and friends, and continue cheering on Indiana athletics.

Here’s to Jay Sears—a man whose work ethic, passion, and loyalty epitomize the best of college sports. Thank you, Jay, for 50 remarkable years of service to the Hoosiers. Enjoy your next chapter!