The TAKEOFF Magazine

Austin Pole Vault and Throws Club

Jack Mann is a junior at Lake Travis High School in Austin, TX. He began pole vaulting in 7th grade by chance, when the track coaches at his middle school encouraged him to try field events. In the fall of 2017, he met coach Brian Elmore. Today Jack credits Brian’s coaching with much of his own success. In 2018, Jack followed Brian to Austin Pole Vault and Throws, where he currently trains. Jack loves the sport because everyone is supportive and nice. Athletes, coaches, and parents alike are encouraging. Covid-19 has made going to practice special. He’s thankful for the opportunity to train and is looking forward to the 2021 outdoor season.

At the 2018 Pole Vault Expo, Jack triple PR’d winning his flight and realized his potential. Making the commitment to train year round (only Sundays during football season), he continues to reach new heights with each competition. In 2018, he finished 2nd in the 13-14 USATF Junior Olympics. At the age of 14, his freshman year, he cleared 14’0 to win his 6A District Championship and continued on through the Area Meet and Regional Meet. That summer, he won the 15-16 AAU Junior Olympics, his proudest accomplishment in vaulting! His sophomore year he broke his high school’s 20 year-old record clearing 15’8”. Last summer he won the 15-16 AAU National Championship.

Jack’s current indoor PR is 15’9” and outdoor PR is 15’8”. He is driven by the desire to vault his age and higher. He strives for consistency and believes his successes come from patience, commitment, and hard work. Jack knows personal bests come if you invest in yourself and trust your coaches. Traveling for Jack’s competitions has become a family affair.

Outside of pole vaulting, he is committed to his studies, philanthropies, friendships and family. Jack is a member of the NHS and Young Men’s Service League.

Photo courtesy of John Mann

Ben Ploetz is the owner and Head Coach of Austin Pole Vault and Throws.

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