How to Pole Vault in College: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Dreaming of pole vaulting in college? Whether you're an aspiring athlete or already competing at the high school level, the path to becoming a collegiate pole vaulter can seem daunting. From choosing the right college to meeting eligibility requirements and preparing for tryouts, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process.

Set Goals & Leverage Your Talents

Before you begin, it's crucial to set clear, achievable goals. Consider the following: Are you aiming for NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, or Junior College? Each level has different competition standards and requirements. Ensure the colleges you're considering align with your academic aspirations. Balancing academics and athletics is key to a successful college experience. Think about your career aspirations post-college and how pole vaulting fits into that picture.

Leveraging your pole vaulting talents can be a powerful way to gain admission to top-tier schools, even if your ACT or SAT scores might not be as competitive. You have a unique talent and gift—take full advantage of it to open doors that might otherwise be closed.

Researching Colleges and Programs

Start by researching colleges that offer pole vaulting programs, and check out their history. Here are some tips: Visit College Websites: Look for information about their track and field programs, coaching staff, facilities, and pole vaulting records. Attend College Meets: If possible, attend some college track meets to observe the competition and get a feel for the environment. Connect with Coaches: Reach out to college coaches at the meets or via email. Introduce yourself, express your interest in their program, and share your athletic achievements and goals.

Meeting Eligibility Requirements

To compete in college athletics, you need to meet specific eligibility requirements: NCAA Clearinghouse: Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center if you're aiming for Division I or II. This process involves submitting transcripts, standardized test scores, and ensuring you meet academic and amateurism standards. Academic Standards: Maintain a strong GPA and achieve the required SAT or ACT scores for the colleges you're targeting.

Preparing Your Athletic Resume

Your athletic resume is a crucial part of your college application. It should include: Personal Information: Name, contact details, graduation year, and high school. Athletic Achievements: Personal bests, competition results, and any awards or honors. Training and Coaching: Details about your training regimen and coaches. Video Highlights: A well-edited video showcasing your pole vaulting skills and competitions.

Training and Improving Performance

Collegiate pole vaulting requires peak physical condition and refined technique. Focus on: Strength and Conditioning: Incorporate weight training, plyometrics, and core exercises into your routine. Technical Drills: Work on your approach, plant, takeoff, and bar clearance with a qualified coach. Nutrition and Recovery: Maintain a balanced diet and prioritize recovery through proper rest, stretching, and possibly incorporating practices like yoga or meditation.

Participating in Camps and Clinics

Pole vaulting camps and clinics offer specialized training and exposure to college coaches: Summer Camps: Many colleges host summer pole vaulting camps where you can train under college coaches and improve your skills. Clinics: Attend pole vaulting clinics to learn new techniques and get feedback from experienced coaches.

Communicating with Coaches

Effective communication with college coaches can significantly impact your recruitment: Initial Contact: Send an introductory email with your athletic resume, a highlight video, and a brief description of why you're interested in their program. Follow-Up: Keep coaches updated on your progress throughout your senior year. Inform them of any new personal bests or significant achievements. Visits and Meetings: Arrange unofficial or official visits to meet coaches and team members, and to tour the campus and facilities.

When you find the college and coach, take Samford, for example, an elite pole vaulting school with vaulters such as Oates and Seaman, you can reach out directly to the coach. Most all coaches have their contact information on the website, like here Rod Tiffin at Samford

Navigating the Recruitment Process

The recruitment process can be complex, but staying organized can help: Recruiting Timeline: Understand the recruiting timeline for your target division. Each division has specific periods for contact, evaluations, and signing. Offers and Commitments: If you receive offers, carefully consider each one. Compare athletic, academic, and financial aid packages before making a decision. Signing: Once you've made your choice, you'll sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) for NCAA schools, solidifying your commitment.

Height Requirements for Scholarships

Understanding the height requirements for scholarships can help you set realistic goals: NCAA Division I: For men, clearing heights of 16'0" (4.88m) or higher is competitive, while for women, clearing heights of 13'0" (3.96m) or higher is often required. NCAA Division II: For men, heights of 15'0" (4.57m) or higher can attract attention, while for women, heights of 12'0" (3.66m) or higher are competitive. NCAA Division III: For men, clearing 14'0" (4.27m) or higher is typically necessary, while for women, heights of 11'0" (3.35m) or higher can earn scholarships.

Conclusion

Starting your journey to pole vault in college requires dedication, research, and strategic planning. By setting clear goals, meeting eligibility requirements, enhancing your performance, and effectively communicating with coaches, you'll be well on your way to achieving your dream. Remember, every athlete's path is unique, so stay focused, stay motivated, and enjoy the process.

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