Pole vaulting into college?

Question

I just started pole vaulting this year and im a junior :( , wish i would have started earlier. I started in jan and sucked so badly by early march i could barley clear 8 feet. Now in mid may i cleared 10'6 in a meet and 11'6 in practice today. My rate of improvement is off the charts as my coach puts it, and im pretty sure 12 foot wont be hard for my divisions in 2 weeks. Im just wondering if i get evern better in my senior year will colleges compinsate me getting better if i am only clearing 12 this year?

Answer 1

If you question is Can I pole Vault in College? then the answer is yes. You have to realize a few things though.

Unless you are a state champion in polvault and strong in other events a college won't likely "pay you any scholorship" right off the bat. If you have a great attitude and realy drive yourself while there you may earn some scholorships.

Bigger schools usually recruit more athletes so your coaching attention may be limited. Smaller schools usually rely on student who want to attend that shool to try out for track and you will get better personal coaching.

Try to look at your local state schools, and schools that compete in the NAIA college division. This is a step down from NCAA and the competition is not so in-depth.

Pick schools you may be interested in and CONTACT THEM. Let them know your want to come to school and do polevault. Your dedication and forwardness will pay off.

Answer 2

My guess is that you would be rewarded by performance and not potential. But if you keep at it next year, you might show more improvement and catch someone's eye.

So keep trying. Good things can happen.