Natalie Hubbard

Poseidon Vault Club

The co-captain of the varsity tennis team is an unlikely pole vaulter, but don’t tell Natalie Hubbard. Now a senior at Catholic High School, Natalie also competes in hurdles, long jump, shot put, discus, triple jump, 200m and 400m proving the theory that pole vaulters are the best athletes on the track team.

After seeing Poseidon vaulters train Natalie decided to test herself in a new sport. She loves the combination of technique and intensity. Physically, she works hard in the gym and on the track; mentally she problem solves by figuring out how to make technical improvements. Pole vault has taught her that things she really wants to succeed in require patience. Striving to improve her form takes time.

Natalie aspires to compete collegiately as a vaulter or heptathlete. She is currently working on extending pressure on the pole with her bottom arm to create separation and improve her swing up. Her biggest struggle is maintaining confidence while competing. Natalie overcomes this by reminding herself to trust her training.

Last summer, Natalie trained with Olympic gold medalist Stacy Dragila at her facility in Boise, Idaho. Her time with Stacy reinforced the skills she learned from Coach Guzman, and taught her new ones. Training with Stacy was an honor.

As a sophomore, Natalie earned the varsity track MVP award and qualified for AAU nationals. She is the first vaulter at her school and thus the school record holder with a best of 9’6”.

Off the track and court, Natalie is the student chair of the Historical Preservation Commission of Virginia Beach, and a member of the NHS.

Join us in cheering Natalie on this season!

Photo provided by Poseidon Vault Club