2x 2A Pole Vault State Champion Morgan Brown Picks Purdue


Two-time 2A pole vault state champion Morgan Brown of Calvary Christian in Clearwater recently announced her college decision. She talks about how she started out in the sport, the excitement of the past two years, and the reason she chose the Boilermakers.

What was the recruiting procession like for you?

The recruiting process started off to a very slow start. I wasn't getting much attention from colleges and was not thinking that I would be able to get the opportunity to jump for a division 1 school. Once I started emailing colleges all over the country I was able to get my foot in the door for some division 2 and division 1 schools.instead of thinking that colleges would be knocking on my door, I learned that I would have to make the first move and show them that I was interested in their program and would be an asset to their team.

Where all did you visit/consider?

I visited UNC Charlotte on an Official visit and I also went to visit the University of Tennessee last track season.

What was it about Purdue that sold you in the end?

Purdue has always been my family school because my aunt and uncle went to school there, but i had never visited the campus until me recruiting trip. When I visited, I just knew that I wanted to be apart of their program. The coaches were very personable and I was able to develop a close relationship with the jumps and multis coach there. Also on my recruiting trip I loved the athletes and was able to feel like this was a team where I could fit into.

How important was it to get the decision behind you so you can focus on your senior season?

 It was very important for me. In a sense it is a relief to have it figured out before the beginning of the season so I do not have the stress of trying to figure out college while in the middle of the season. Now its time to hit my heights and get ready to compete against college athletes.

You've been pole vaulting since 2013, almost five years. How'd you get into the sport and what do you love most about it?

I have been involved in competitive cheer for over 13 years and because of my background in the sport my bible teacher, Lisa Jones, at the time though that I would be good at pole vaulting. I came out one day and instantly feel involve with the sport. My first meet I actually no heighted. This sport pushes me to go out of my comfort zone and do things I would have never though I would be able to do

When did it really sink in hey I could be good at this?

The beginning of my freshman season at the St. Pete championship meet i was able to jump 10'7", which was a new school record. After this moment I knew that this sport was something I could excel in.

You're a two-time state champion. What do you remember about those moments? Was one title sweeter than another?

My 2016 state championship was a huge milestone in my career. I was coming back from the year before being injured and not going to states to being seeded number one and having the possibility of winning. I remember at 10'6" there were still 4 girls including me in and all three missed their first attempt. I knew that if I cleared this on my first attempt that I would win. At the end of the runway I just remember feeling so nervous and sick because this one jump was one of the most important jumps so far. 2017 was superisinly more stressful. I had to leave pole vault to go run prelims for the 4x1. I was nervous that I would not be able to have enough energy to continue jumping.

What are your goals for your senior season and how would it feel to win three in a row?

My goal this season is to break 12' and to win another state championship. Going for a three peat would be amazing especially because not a lot of people have accomplished that.

How do you want to be remembered after you graduate?

I want people to remember me as a competitor that truly enjoys competing. I love to get to know the other vaulters and to show people my love for the sport. I would also like people to remember me as someone they enjoy getting to know off and on the track.

Is there anyone you'd like to say thank you to for getting you to this point?

I would like to thank my coach David Mason for continue helping me get through my injury and pushing me to be the athlete I am today. He has spent many hours coaching me through the good and the bad. He I also would like to thank my parents and family because without their love and support I would not be where I am today. They push me to continue striving to be the best and to never give up no matter how frustrated or mad I got.

More Coverage