Junior Varsity athlete Hayla Ackerman launches herself into the air. Photo courtesy of freshman Hayla Ackerman.

  Track and Field is one of the many popular sports at San Luis Obispo High School. In this broad category, there is the sport of pole vaulting, with SLOHS having exactly 25 members participating.

Is it a small community of athletes? Yes. Do they have a bond for excellence? Of course.

  “The community is one of the most supportive communities… Everybody supports and cares for each other. Everybody’s so supportive of each other and loves each other and it’s just so amazing,” said JV pole vaulter and freshman Hayla Ackerman.

  Pole vaulting is a sport in which athletes hurtle themselves into the air to clear a height. Pole vaulting at SLOHS involves training with the goal to create a new personal record, and attempting to qualify for CIF by clearing a height of twelve feet for boys, and eight feet, six inches for girls.

  “My personal best is six feet. I’m currently working on rowing, which is how we actually gain height by pulling back on the pole and lifting ourselves into the air. [Also] growing and then inversions, which is flipping myself upside down,” said Ackerman.

  The sport takes a lot of core and physical strength. Pole vaulting can also increase flexibility, along with cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and strength.

  “Physically, pole vault is a good way to keep in shape. Each jump uses your legs, core, triceps, shoulders, and back. Mentally, pole vault takes a lot of focus,” said Varsity pole vaulter and senior Rilo Rippens.

  Pole vaulting can be for anyone who is interested in attempting the sport.

  “At the beginning of the season, anyone can try out to become a pole vaulter. Since pole vault is such a niche event nobody has any prior experience, so there’s a pretty good chance you’ll make the team,” said Rippens.

  With a great community, exciting events, and unrivaled spirit, pole vaulting is one of the best sports on campus!

Source: vaultermagazine.com