Name: Cole Riddle
School: Valley Vista
Grade: 12th
MileSplit AZ: When did you start pole vaulting? Have you competed outside of school such as USATF?
I started pole vaulting when I was a freshman. I have competed in USATF meets but that is it.
MileSplit AZ: What does a typical training week look like for you?
I pole vault two or three times a week depending on the week and in between vault days it is a lot of sprint workouts and technical drills.
MileSplit AZ: What is something that helps you mentally prepare before a meet?
Before every meet I think about what a perfect vault looks like over and over again in my head and I think about what I need to be focusing on for the day.
MileSplit AZ: What is your favorite track and field invite?
My favorite invite has to be Arcadia in California because it is the most intense invite and it's always fun to travel to invites.
MileSplit AZ: What are some goals you would like to accomplish this season?
My biggest goal this season is to break the state record and jump at least 17'5".
MileSplit AZ: Do you have any role models you look up to?
I look up to my coaches (Nick Hysong and Rick Scaife) because they know a lot about the vault and they are good people in general. I learn something new everyday at practice and there is never a bad day.
MileSplit AZ: What motivational advice would you say to a new pole vaulter?
I would tell them that they picked one of the hardest and most technical events and so if they feel like they aren't progressing or they think they aren't good, to just keep pushing because it takes time and everyone has their bad days.
MileSplit AZ: Will you be competing at any national invitationals this season?
I plan to compete at the Junior Olympic Nationals and the U20 Nationals.
MileSplit AZ: What is your favorite subject in school and what do plan on studying during college?
I don't have a favorite subject and I will decide what I want to study later. I am really excited to pole vault in college.
MileSplit AZ: Outside of pole vaulting is there any other hobbies or sports you participate in?
