The Best Pole Vault Coaches in the US: An In-Depth Look

The Critical Role of Coaching in Pole Vaulting

Pole vaulting is a sport that demands a unique blend of speed, strength, technique, and mental toughness. The right coach can make all the difference in helping an athlete reach their full potential. This article profiles some of the top pole vault coaches in the United States, exploring their journeys, where they coach, and their affiliations with vault clubs or schools. From private clubs to university programs, these coaches offer diverse styles and expertise, making them the best in the business.

Profiles of Renowned Coaches

Rick Suhr

Rick Suhr is renowned for coaching Olympic champion Jenn Suhr. His innovative training methods and technical expertise have established him as a leading figure in pole vault coaching. Suhr operates as a private coach and is associated with Suhr Sports.

Brad Walker

Brad Walker, a former World Champion and elite vaulter, has transitioned to coaching with a focus on biomechanics and technique. His approach aims to elevate the performance of his athletes. Walker is a private coach and is involved with various camps and clinics.

Greg Hull

Greg Hull has a storied history of guiding elite athletes, including multiple Olympic and World Championship medalists. His deep emphasis on technical mastery has made him a respected coach in the pole vaulting community. Hull coaches in Arizona and is affiliated with the Arizona Pole Vault Academy.

Jeff Hartwig

A former American record holder, Jeff Hartwig is an experienced coach who emphasizes technical proficiency and consistency. Hartwig operates as a private coach and agent for elite vaulters and is associated with various training programs like MICDS, Mary Institute and Saint Louis Country Day School in St. Louis.

Tim Mack

Olympic gold medalist Tim Mack offers technical insights and a dedication to athlete development in his coaching. He operates as a private coach, and trains athletes at Spire Academy. Tim used to coach in Knoxville, Tennessee with Elite and high School athletes.

Greg Duplantis

A former elite vaulter and the father of world record holder "Mondo" Armand Duplantis, Greg Duplantis combines his competitive experience and coaching skills. He coaches privately and is currently focused on his son.

Nick Hysong

Olympic gold medalist Nick Hysong is known for his technical expertise and innovative training methods. Hysong operates as a club owner and coach at Risen Performance pole Vault Center and is involved with various programs like, Shadow Mountain High School in Phoenix.

Mike Seaman

Mike Seaman is influential in the pole vaulting community, known for his work with elite vaulters and his technical coaching style. He coaches privately at River City Vault Club in Cape Girardeau, MO, and is associated with Notre Dame High School.

Brian Yokoyama

Brian Yokoyama has a long history of developing elite high school and collegiate vaulters at Mt. San Antonio College. Yokoyama operates as a private coach and is involved with various training programs.

Scott Kendricks

Scott Kendricks, the father and coach of Sam Kendricks, has been instrumental in his son's success. Known for his technical coaching and athlete development, Kendricks offers private coaching and clinics in Mississippi at the Refuge Training Center.

Stacy Dragila

An Olympic champion and pioneer in women's pole vaulting, Stacy Dragila has transitioned to coaching, offering her extensive knowledge and experience. She operates her own training facility in Garden City, ID, called Stacy Dragila Vault Club.

University-Affiliated Coaches

Derek Miles

Former Olympic vaulter Derek Miles is a respected coach at the University of South Dakota. He is known for developing top collegiate vaulters through his comprehensive training programs. Miles's affiliation with the university program has produced numerous successful athletes.

Lawrence Johnson

Olympic silver medalist Lawrence Johnson leverages his competitive experience and technical expertise in his coaching at the University of South Carolina. His focus on athlete development has made him a key figure in collegiate pole vaulting.

Tom Hays

Tom Hays is a celebrated coach at the University of Kansas, known for his technical training and success in developing top collegiate vaulters. His dedication to athlete development and technical proficiency has earned him a strong reputation in the sport.

Joe Dial

As a coach at Oral Roberts University, Joe Dial brings his elite competitive experience and technical expertise to developing collegiate vaulters. His affiliation with the university program has led to the success of many athletes.

Bob Phillips

Bob Phillips is a dedicated coach at Virginia Tech, known for his focus on technical development and success in guiding collegiate vaulters. His work at the university has produced numerous elite athletes.

Anthony Curran

Anthony Curran, a coach at UCLA, has a strong reputation for developing elite collegiate vaulters through his technical expertise and experience. His affiliation with UCLA has made him a prominent figure in collegiate pole vaulting.

Chris Grimes

Chris Grimes, coaching at the University of Nebraska, is known for his technical training methods and success in producing top collegiate vaulters. His dedication to the sport has made him a respected coach.

Pat Licari

As a coach at the University of Washington, Pat Licari has a reputation for technical coaching and developing successful collegiate vaulters. His work with the university program has produced many elite athletes.

Mark Hollis

A former elite vaulter and coach at the University of Tennessee, Mark Hollis is recognized for his technical coaching and development of collegiate athletes. His affiliation with the university has led to the success of numerous vaulters.

Private Coaches and Club Affiliations

Toby Stevenson

Olympic silver medalist Toby Stevenson brings a wealth of competitive experience to his coaching. Known for his technical knowledge and motivational skills, Stevenson operates as a private coach and is involved with various training programs.

Morry Saunders

Morry Saunders, coach at the Arkansas Vault Club, is known for his work with vaulters of all levels. His focus on technical skills and competitive success has made the Arkansas Vault Club a hub for aspiring pole vaulters.

Conclusion

The coaches profiled in this article have significantly impacted the sport of pole vaulting through their diverse coaching philosophies, technical expertise, and dedication to athlete development. Whether associated with a school, a private club, or working independently, each coach brings a unique perspective and valuable experience to the pole vaulting community. For aspiring and seasoned vaulters alike, choosing the right coach is crucial. These top coaches offer the guidance and expertise needed to elevate pole vaulting skills to new heights. Athletes are encouraged to reach out to these coaches to take their performance to the next level.