Successful athletic programs have two things in common: consistency and evolution.  This approach has given the San Diego Mesa track and field program success for over two decades. 

Although the first official competition for both the men’s and women’s program is on Friday, February 10, at the Riverside City College Early Invite, a group of Olympians are currently in Reno, Nevada participating at the National Pole Vault Summit. 

According to the website, the National Pole Vault Summit is a grassroots developmental clinic established and continued to promote safety and encourage the advancement of Pole Vaulting at all levels through constant education. The Summit structure is designed to meet the needs of all ability levels including athlete, coaches, and parent break-out sessions, learn-by-doing instruction and round table discussion with the world’s best athletes and coaches.  

The best coaches in any discipline are never content on prior achievements. They are always looking to create higher standards and provide even the slightest advantage to their athletes. 

“This is a really good opportunity for us to learn from the best,” states head coach Sean Ricketts. “Not only do we get to compete, but we also get to participate in classroom style discussions about new technique, equipment, and training methods. This sport is constantly evolving. As a team, we will always provide any information to our student-athletes to help them get to the next level. 

Those participating are  2022 pole vault state champion Madison Rauch. Jeremiah Havens, who finished 2nd in the state for decathlon. Sophomore Joey Brooks. Freshman Armando Castillo and Devyn Barrera.