Average High School Pole Vault Height for Boys and Girls

When discussing average high school pole vault heights for boys and girls, it is essential to account for regional variations, dedication, and access to quality training.

Boys' Pole Vault Heights

• Average Height: Around 11 feet.
• State Qualifiers: Generally, around 13 feet.
• State Champions: Typically over 16 feet. A select few exceed 17 feet, and every year, one or two athletes clear over 18 feet.
• National Record: As of April 2023, the high school boys' pole vault record stands at 19 feet 10.25 inches (6.06 meters) set by Mondo Duplantis
• College Scholarships: Minimum height for a DivisioI college scholarship is 16 feet.

Girls' Pole Vault Heights

• Average Height: Around 9 feet.
• State Qualifiers: Generally, around 10 feet.
• State Champions: Typically over 12 feet 6 inches. A select few exceed 13 feet.
• National Record: As of April 2023, Hana Moll
• College Scholarships: Minimum height for a DivisioI college scholarship is 12 feet 6 inches.

Influencing Factors

Regional Variation

States like California, Texas, and Illinois generally have higher average heights due to better facilities and stronger competition. Pole vaulting has gained popularity over the last 20 years, with many retired elite vaulters coaching the next generation. This continuous cycle of experienced athletes training new vaulters has steadily increased performance levels across the country. Learn more about how high bar workouts

School Size, Clubs, and Resources

Larger schools with better coaching tend to produce higher average vault heights. However, many high schools still lack the necessary poles, coaches, and resources. In contrast, over 200 clubs across the U.S. offer private facilities and specialized training from a young age. These clubs contribute significantly to developing collegiate-level vaulters due to more practice opportunities, superior coaching, and focused pole vaulting programs.

Athlete Dedication

Athletes focusing exclusively on pole vaulting and receiving consistent training tend to achieve higher clearances. Dedication to the sport, including off-season training and participation in specialized camps, greatly impacts an athlete's performance. For those dealing with injuries like shin splints, check out our shin splints remedies

What College Coaches Are Looking For

College coaches consider various factors beyond just the height cleared when offering scholarships. They look at whether the athlete had access to a pole vault coach, their potential for improvement with better resources, and their training commitment. Factors like determination, self-training, and participation in clubs also play crucial roles in the recruitment process. Coaches aim to evaluate an athlete's potential for growth and contribution to their college team.

Participation Numbers

High school pole vaulting sees thousands of participants nationwide. For example, according to recent statistics:

• Approximately 20,000 boys participate ihigh school pole vaulting annually.
• Around 15,000 girls participate ithe sport each year.

Conclusion

Understanding the average high school pole vault heights involves considering regional and individual variations. For boys, averages are around 11 feet, with state qualifiers reaching 13 feet and champions clearing over 16 feet. For girls, averages are around 9 feet, with state qualifiers at 10 feet and champions over 12 feet 6 inches. These insights reflect the dedication, training quality, and regional competitive environment, significantly influencing pole vaulting performance. For those just starting, consider following our training plans for beginners.