Boomer Thompson

Who would've thought that the young, scared kid standing at the back of the runway would go on to become a national champion, compete for a Division 1 school, and dream of being an Olympian. I started pole vault at the end of my freshman year of high school. At the time, I just wanted to jump 10 feet by the time I graduated. I never could've imagined where the sport would take me. 4 years later, my love for this event is only growing. I have changed in so many ways because of my journey in the pole vault. It has taught me so much, about myself, but also about life in general. Most importantly, I've learned that there is so much more to life than standing on a podium with a gold medal around your neck. Its the best feeling in the world to accomplish something you've worked so hard for, something you've dreamed of, but what really makes athletics so special is everything you get to experience on the way to success. The people you meet, relationships you form, the places it takes you, and the experiences along the way are truly my favorite part about my sport. I've learned not to let my sport define me, that its something I do, something I. love to but its not who I am. Finally, when I look back on that freshman, standing at the back of the runway, terrified, I think about all that I never thought Id accomplish. The most important lesson I've learned, is to chase your dreams, no matter what. You never know what might happen if you do.