Keep checking back to see who makes the Arizona Milesplit 'Watch List" in Track and Field.
Journal Questions:
Name: Athena Masolini (Athena's Milesplit Profile)
High School: Saguaro High School
Year of Graduation: 2014
Track and Field PR's:
Pole Vault: 11'7"
When did you first get involved with track and field? How long have you been running:
I first got involved in track and field half way through the season my freshman year. Prior to pole vaulting I was a gymnast. One of my coaches, who knew I was quitting, was a vaulter so she asked me to come try it and I ended up really liking it. This has had me involved in track and field for the past 3 years.
What is a typical training week like for you?
I train Monday through Saturday year round at my club, Risen performance, with my coach Nick Hysong. During the off season we go through what we call "Fall Training". A typical week of fall training consists of 3 days of intense running workouts including circuits and lifting with 2 days of "off day workouts", aka strides and simple exercises. We do not vault during this time. Once season starts I vault and lift 3 days a week with my club while doing assigned running workouts at my school on the other days.
What are your goals for the upcoming track season?
My main goal for this season is to jump at least 3.81 meters in the pole vault, or 12'06".
How do you prepare yourself mentally for a race? Do you have any superstitions?
Before a jump or a race I will typically picture myself in my head doing everything perfectly. I do not have any superstitions when is comes to competing.
What does your season look like and will you be competing in any out of state track meets during the season?
If you had to attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
I attribute my success to dedication. Spending a large amount of my time at the track putting in the work it takes to be where I am today is how I succeed.
Do you have role models or mentors in track and field?
My role model would have to be my coach, Nick Hysong. Not only was he a great pole vaulter, but he puts so much time and effort into his athletes. He loves the sport and loves what he does, helping kids become better athletes, which is very admirable.
How many events do you compete in and which event is your favorite?
I generally compete in 5 events: The pole vault, high jump, long jump, 4X100, and high hurdles. The pole vault is my favorite to compete in by far.
What are 3 things we don't know about you?
- I was a gymnast for 13 years before I took up track and field.
- I grew up in northern California.
- I love playing "Call of Duty."
Shout Outs?
My teammates at Risen Performance.
Quick 6:
Favorite Meet?
Varsity City Meet
Cross Country or Track and Field?
Track and Field
Perfect temperature to compete in?
75 degrees