Paul Jorgensen Coaching Tips

Name:

Are you an Athlete(Avid Pole Vaulter), Coach, or Both?

What is your Personal Best or Your Athletes Best (Basic Background)

I have coached several vaulters to 14'6" in high school. Several of my vaulters have gone on to vault in college-Eric Abel 16' + and Mike Kranpitz 16' +

1) What is the single most important thing in the Pole Vault?

2) What makes a great approach?

3) What makes a great plant?

The pole being brought up in front of the face with both arms straight. The top hand should be over take-off foot.

4) What makes a great swing up?

The run and the plant allow for a good swing. I would emphasize the chest, "C", keeping the trail leg straight on take off. The body should be stiff like a board.

5) What makes a great top?

6) What advice do you have for the off/pre season?

In montana we can't vault outside so we stress gymnastics, running, and strength development. We also do plant drills, and C drills.

7) What are your favorite drills for the Pole Vault?

I like the C drill. The vaulter uses a 3 step approach, goes up and coach pushes the athlete in the back for support.

8) What advice do you have on a Vaulters grip width?

9) What advice do have on a height of a Vaulters hand-hold?

As a vaulter gains experience hold higher. I hestitate from moving high school vaulters up the 15 foot poles because I haven't felt they were ready.

10) What advice do you have on how to keep the Pole Vault Safe?

Use drills that progress in difficulty. Don't let the vaulter continue on until drills are mastered. Always stress safety. Don't let go of the pole.

Send Comments or Questions to Paul Jorgensen at kjhssci@digisys.net