Education
Furman University.
Furman University.
College and amateur
Jata began his college career at Furman University, where he led the team in points. After one season with Furman he transferred to Campbell University. During his time at Campbell, he was a three-time All-South region midfielder, had 12 game-winning goals, was a three-time All-Atlantic Sun Conference First Team selection (2006, 2007, 2008), and amassed 71 points (28 goals, 15 assists) in 3 seasons.
In Jata"s senior year at Campbell he led the team to a 14-6 record, including an undefeated record in A-Sun conference play.
He finished his college career with 32 goals and 18 assists. During his college career, Jata played with USL Premier Development League club Carolina Dynamo during their 2007 and 2008 seasons.
Professional
Jata was drafted in the fourth round (58th overall) of the 2009 Master of Library Science SuperDraft by Chicago Fire, but failed to make their final roster and was released by the club during their pre-season. He then proceeded to trial with numerous clubs in the United States and Europe, but failed to sign with any of them.
Jata eventually returned to USL PDL club Carolina Dynamo to play for them during their 2010 season.
Jata signed his first professional contract in February 2011, joining USL Pro club Wilmington Hammerheads. Jata left Wilmington at the end of the 2011 season for personal reasons.