Former Saint Francis track standout Dashaun Jackson made his professional debut in the American Track League in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on Jan. 31. 

Jackson represented the U.S. National Team in the 60-meter hurdles and finished third with a time of 7.99. 

Trevor Bassitt of the U.S. won the event in 7.71 and Jason Joseph of Switzerland finished second (7.92).

“I was super-excited to race in my first pro meet,” said Jackson. “The current pandemic really slowed a lot of things down and greatly affected my training, so I wanted to get the feeling of competition and see how I match up against some big names.” 

The 2019 SFU graduate had one of the most decorated careers in school history. He was a 2019 USTFCCA All-American, a two-time NEC Indoor Champion (4×400, 60m hurdles) and three-time outdoor NEC Champion (110m hurdles twice, 4x100m). 

In his senior season, Jackson place fourth in the 110-meter hurdles at the NCAA Outdoor National Championships.

It was the best finish by a Saint Francis track and field athlete at a national finals in school history. 

“The track and field program at Saint Francis helped me tremendously to be where I am today,” said Jackson.

Christian McFadden, a fifth-year senior on the Red Flash track and field team, is one Jackson’s closest friends.

“He always showed great leadership and was someone that pushed you to bring out your best potential at all times,” said McFadden. “He taught me how to be humble and mentally strong.”

Jackson now turns his attention outdoors. 

“The next step is to prepare for outdoor season,” he said. “Given this is an Olympic year, the dream is to compete at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games this summer. 

“All the hard work and preparation will be with that in mind.”