“The key to my success was a lot of hard work and dedication, along with a great support system. I approached this year with a new work ethic and passion, knowing that it was my last year of intercollegiate athletics. I didn’t want to go out knowing that I didn’t try my hardest. Also, my coaches, teammates, friends, and family have encouraged me during the rough times and celebrated with me during the good times, so I couldn’t ask for a better cheering section.”

“The right coach is very important to a team’s success, particularly in encouraging the team to do its best. Knowing the technicalities of everything, like the proper form in the pole vault, is obviously important, but so is the coach’s ability to spark a fire in his/her team and push people to do their best. And by doing their best, I don’t mean just in athletics. The right coach pushes people to be the best all-around person they can be, whether it be in sports, academics, or their everyday interactions with people. The right coach cares about his/her athletes and lets them know that, no matter the level of success the team reaches during the season.”