The 2014-2015 school year has provided some great highlights in both cross country and track across the Sunshine State. In the coming weeks many of our seniors will head out to start their college careers both athletically and academically. We wanted to salute them one more time in this special feature and say thank you for your support over the years.
What was your most memorable vault?
Sophomore year I was coming into the state meet ranked in second place. My highest jump at the time was 14'6 and the state leader was three inches above that. I came in as the underdog and jumped 15' only to get state runner up due to misses. Even though I did not win the meet, I will remember that forever.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My biggest competition definitely would be myself. In the vault, every meet is between you and the bar. I won the state championship for a second time this year, but I felt like I lost the entire meet. Only when you jump over you personal record do you feel like you have beaten yourself.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Being ranked in the top 15 nationally.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your vaulting career in high school?
I would put more emphasis on the weight room! I never touched the gym until my senior season. With the small time I had to train I saw huge improvements.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
In pole vault there are more obstacles than you can imagine. Last year it was getting that 16 foot bar which I finally got the last meet of the season. This year has been the 17 foot barrier. The year isn't over yet and I know I'll jump 17'+ soon.
What will you miss the most?
My head coach told me best, Drew have fun now cause college is going to be a job. I haven't experienced it yet, but I'm sure I'll miss the high school atmosphere, practices, and meets.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
Try something new people. If you would have told me I was going to be one of the best pole vaulters in Florida history I would have laughed at you. This crazy sport is giving me an education at Auburn so don't be afraid to try something out of the ordinary.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
I have multiple coaches. First would be Coach McBeath. He is my school pole vault coach who started me four years ago. I owe it all to him for getting me to start this crazy sport. He is a man that I can only strive to be like. Maxwell Thompson is my private pole vault coach. He is the reason why I have excelled so much in these past two years. He has become a great coach, but even a better friend to me and my family. I couldn't do it without him and his family.
What are your college plans?
I am headed off to Auburn University. I took my fair share of visits to other great schools, but Auburn fit me best, and I can't wait to see where it takes me.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
First, I owe all the glory to God. Everything that I have done is because He has allowed me to glorify His name in all that I do. My family has been with me through it all. My mom and dad have driven all across the state for me this year. I owe all my accolades to them. My siblings also are huge apart of my success. Jay, my older brother has given me my insane competitiveness. I thank all my relatives and friends that have supported me through my career so far. Lastly, I have to thank Todd from flrunners for all he does for the sport of track and field.
Seniors, don't be left out! Submit your Salute to Seniors answers to Todd.Grasley@flosports.tv and be featured on the site!
