I had the privilege to be a part of BPVA since coach Hicks’ first day as the head coach, and since then I have watched Buckeye become one of the premier pole vault clubs in the country. For any athlete looking to become a better vaulter, or anyone interested in getting started in the pole vault, there is no better place than BPVA to help you become the best athlete you can be. 

 

          Coach Hicks and the other coaches have a holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of all aspects of the vault, from running form, carrying the pole, strength, speed, and technique. Buckeye has an impressive selection of training equipment and weights that are utilized for drills and strength building relevant to becoming a better vaulter and athlete. The coaches provide a wealth of knowledge about this unique sport, and the proof lies within all the successful athletes that call BPVA home. Under coach Hicks I was able to jump 16’9” by my senior year of high school and went on to pole vault at Ohio State, where I competed against many other BPVA athletes who went on to vault in college. 

 

          The culture at BPVA is incredible, and I have made many lifelong friends during my time here. While there is a friendly, family-like atmosphere there is also an expectation from you as an athlete. You cannot simply show up and expect to improve! You must arrive with an open, coachable mindset and be intentional with everything you do; no drill, exercise, or workout is more or less important than the next. Take things seriously, listen to the coaches, and get comfortable with being uncomfortable! Pole vaulting is tough, but it is very rewarding when put in the work and have the right mindset. I am very grateful for BPVA and coach Hicks for creating such an amazing place to give athletes an amazing place to learn, grow, and have fun, just as I did. 

There is no doubt that BPVA is the ideal club for vaulters of any level. Austin developed me from 8ft to 17ft over the course of 6 years, and at every point I was impressed by the coaching support, equipment, and energy at the club.

 

         Austin had the coaching ability to support me through every phase of my journey, from first bending the pole to placing at nationals. His adaptability, coupled with the excellent assistant coaches, ensures that any vaulter can come in and find advice that works for them. 

 

         The gym is equipped with a unique amount of training equipment that is unrivaled by any other club in the country. Because of this, practice was always fun and dynamic, whether I was warming up, doing drills, vaulting, or strength training afterwards. When I left for college, I was surprised to see that my D1 program had less equipment than Buckeye. It is clear to me that Austin has a working system that addresses all aspects of training, not just runway time. 

 

        What impacted me the most at BPVA was the social and energetic environment. Austin has a unique ability that goes beyond instruction—he also motivates, uplifts, and relates to his athletes on a more personal level. This positivity filters down to the kids, creating a very welcoming environment all around. For me, attending the club not only made me an excellent vaulter, but it also improved my sociability and communication skills. I was able to branch out and make close friends that I still spend time with 4 years later. Each time I’m home from college for break, I never miss a chance to visit the gym, catch up, and get a workout in.

I’ve been with Austin and BPVA since the very beginning. I have seen first-hand the greatness that evolves and comes from this club. If you are looking to become an accomplished athlete and skilled pole vaulter, BPVA is the place to do it. 

 

Austin Hicks coaching ability, among other coaches at the facility, rival that of Olympic level coaches. His ability to coach your specific type of athleticism is an integral part of one’s journey with the sport, and was an extremely valuable part of my journey.

 

Other than the skilled coaches and the extensive athletic equipment, the best part of BPVA is the welcoming and competitive environment. During my time with BPVA, I had the pleasure of making so many lifelong friends that I could also compete against. We would have many late night practices creating memories with one another and figuring out how to outplay one another. It was this unique environment that allowed us to have so much fun while bettering ourselves as athletes. It was the main reason I was able to go D1 and further my time with the sport, becoming better and making more friends along the way. 

    Training at BPVA has been one of the best experiences of my athletic journey. From the start, I benefitted tremendously from the variety of drills in the gym that helped build my technique, strength, and confidence on the runway. I started as a 9’ jumper to 10’6” in the matter of five practices. The coaches are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive — they’re not just focused on performance, but on helping every athlete grow at their own pace. 

 

    The culture at the gym is something really special. I was so nervous to attend for the first time and after getting there, everyone was so welcoming. Everyone, from the coaches to the other vaulters, brings a positive, hardworking attitude that makes every practice both productive and fun. The athletes are supportive of each other and want everyone to succeed.  

 

    The facility itself is awesome, with two indoor pits and a great outdoor pit for summer training. All the drills helped me focus on specific parts of the vault, allowing me to gain the confidence to apply it on the runway.    

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    I’ve also loved the extra events that make Buckeye so unique — from lock-ins and summer meets to the trip to Reno, Nevada for the Pole Vault Summit. Experiences like those create lasting memories and deepen the sense of community here. 

 

    Buckeye Pole Vault Academy is more than just a training center — it’s a place where athletes at every level can thrive, surrounded by people who truly love the sport. I have created lifelong friendships at the gym, and I would not be where I am today without Austin and everyone else at BPVA. I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of such a unique community and enjoy every visit to the gym.