2010-2011 TRAINING BEGINS
The Tennessee pole vaulting squad returns 3 athletes this year and adds two new ones. Joe Berry will lead the charge as he makes his return from a red-shirt season and foot surgery. Robert Rasnick will hope to build off his strong finish to 2010 which included a trip to the NCAA finals. Chase Brannon looks to have a bright future for the Vols after learning the ropes and making some big improvements during a redshirt season. The Vols welcome Michael Maira and Tyler Porter. Porter won the 2009 & 2010 Georgia state championships, setting an all class record along the way at 16' 7.75". Maira comes to the Vols from New Jersey where he was a three time state champion. Bradley Holtz will continue to train and provide valuable leadership to the young pups. Tim Mack is also in Knoxville training hard and coaching some local vaulters.
2010 NCAA OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Eugene, OR
18th: Robert Rasnick - 5m
NH: Brad Holtz
The NCAA championship pole vault was marred with several unfortunate circumstances. The warm-ups and first few bars were run into a headwind with light rain coming and going at times. Then the officials forgot to actually raise the bar to 5.15m but allowed all the vaulters to have their attempts at what was still actually 5m. Then they decided to erase all of those jumps and start over, re-introducing several vaulters who were out and eliminating several vaulters who had "cleared". All and all, it was an embarassment for the sport and the NCAA. I feel terrible for the athletes who had to finish their career in such an idiotic fashion. The Tennessee vaulters did not bring their "A" game to this meet but gained valuable experience and learned lessons that should serve us in the future.
NH: Brad Holtz
The NCAA championship pole vault was marred with several unfortunate circumstances. The warm-ups and first few bars were run into a headwind with light rain coming and going at times. Then the officials forgot to actually raise the bar to 5.15m but allowed all the vaulters to have their attempts at what was still actually 5m. Then they decided to erase all of those jumps and start over, re-introducing several vaulters who were out and eliminating several vaulters who had "cleared". All and all, it was an embarassment for the sport and the NCAA. I feel terrible for the athletes who had to finish their career in such an idiotic fashion. The Tennessee vaulters did not bring their "A" game to this meet but gained valuable experience and learned lessons that should serve us in the future.
NCAA PRELIMINARY
Greensboro, NC
Robert Rasnick: 5.25m, 17' 2.5" PR
Brad Holtz: 5.25m, 17' 2.5" Ties outdoor PR.
With the season on the line, both vaulters stepped up big to advance to the NCAA Finals. Robert Rasnick posted a lifetime best on his first attempt, while Bradley cleared on his second attempt. The competition did not continue after only 12 remained, so both guys stopped after 5.25m. Both vaulters will travel to Eugene, OR and compete on June 10th for the NCAA championship. This is the first time since 1996 that UT has taken two vaulters to the NCAA. The last duo to attend the NCAA's together was Lawrence Johnson (19' 8") and Dan Monaghan (17'6") both traveling to Eugene as well. The Vols had a great day that meet as LoJo set the NCAA meet record at 19'1". This will be Brad's final collegiate meet for the Vols and he is trying to finish his career bith a big BANG.
Robert Rasnick: 5.25m, 17' 2.5" PR
Brad Holtz: 5.25m, 17' 2.5" Ties outdoor PR.
With the season on the line, both vaulters stepped up big to advance to the NCAA Finals. Robert Rasnick posted a lifetime best on his first attempt, while Bradley cleared on his second attempt. The competition did not continue after only 12 remained, so both guys stopped after 5.25m. Both vaulters will travel to Eugene, OR and compete on June 10th for the NCAA championship. This is the first time since 1996 that UT has taken two vaulters to the NCAA. The last duo to attend the NCAA's together was Lawrence Johnson (19' 8") and Dan Monaghan (17'6") both traveling to Eugene as well. The Vols had a great day that meet as LoJo set the NCAA meet record at 19'1". This will be Brad's final collegiate meet for the Vols and he is trying to finish his career bith a big BANG.
SEC OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
It was a rough day for the Volunteers. In spite of great warm-ups, the delays and conditions got the best of the UT contigent of Brad Holtz and Robert Rasnick. Both vaulters failed at their opening heights. We will regroup for the NCAA regionals with plans to advance to the NCAA Finals.
SEA RAY RELAYS
6th: Brad Holtz: 5.15m, 16' 10.5"
NH: Robert Rasnick
Chase Brannon (Open Section): 14' 7"
Brad managed 5.15m in the invite today and moved through some of his biggest poles before facing a couple of tough headwinds at 5.25m. Robert Rasnick continued to struggle with run throughs in the warm-ups and suffered a no height. Chase Brannon cleared 14'7" in the open section and blew through all his poles at 15'1" but looks ready to make huge strides in the near future. 
FLORIDA RELAYS
4th: Brad Holtz: 5.25m, 17' 2.5" - Outdoor PR
12: Robert Rasnick: 5.05, 16' 6.5"
Brad Holtz opened up his first meet competing for Tennessee this season with an outdoor PR of 4 inches. He continues to build on his indoor momentum. Robert Rasnick struggled on the runway but managed to clear 5.05m before exiting at 5.15. 
VIRGINIA TECH LAST CHANCE - 2010
Blacksburg, Virginia
4th: Brad Holtz (unattached): 5.38m, 17' 7.75" Personal Best
6th: Robert Rasnick: 5.22m, 17' 1.75" Personal Best
8th: Joeseph Berry: 5.22m, 17' 1.75" Seasonal Best
Brad Holtz highlighted the day with a smooth first attempt clearance at 5.38m. He does not have indoor eligibility but should make a huge impact on the squad as he has outdoor eligibility remaining. Joe struggled early but rallied to clear 5.22 on his 3rd attempt before taking 2 good attempts at a NCAA qualifier 5.38m. Rasnick, still vaulting at seven lefts, cleared a lifetime best of 5.22m. He also took some good shots at 5.38m. Although we failed in our mission to get someone to the NCAA's, this meet appears to be a very positive springboard for the outdoor season. Three guys, who look like they have another 6-10 inches in their vaulting in the near future. We will take a few days off, return to some base training, and re-visit some technical work as we move toward the Florida Relays.
4th: Brad Holtz (unattached): 5.38m, 17' 7.75" Personal Best
6th: Robert Rasnick: 5.22m, 17' 1.75" Personal Best
8th: Joeseph Berry: 5.22m, 17' 1.75" Seasonal Best
Brad Holtz highlighted the day with a smooth first attempt clearance at 5.38m. He does not have indoor eligibility but should make a huge impact on the squad as he has outdoor eligibility remaining. Joe struggled early but rallied to clear 5.22 on his 3rd attempt before taking 2 good attempts at a NCAA qualifier 5.38m. Rasnick, still vaulting at seven lefts, cleared a lifetime best of 5.22m. He also took some good shots at 5.38m. Although we failed in our mission to get someone to the NCAA's, this meet appears to be a very positive springboard for the outdoor season. Three guys, who look like they have another 6-10 inches in their vaulting in the near future. We will take a few days off, return to some base training, and re-visit some technical work as we move toward the Florida Relays.
SEC INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - 2010
University of Arkansas
6th: Robert Rasnick: 5.15m, 16' 10.5"
8th: Joeseph Berry: 5.00m, 16' 4.5"
The Vols pole vaulters had a difficult day at the SEC's. Joe Berry had excellent warm-ups but was not able to carry that momentum into the meet. He struggled with standard placement and had some inconsistencies in his run. Rasnick also had some difficulties with his run, but managed to battle back for a big 3rd attempt clearance at 5.15m. This ends the Tennessee streak of 8 consecutive SEC pole vault championships. Although we were all disappointed in the results, the guys have the time and the talent to rally back this year. The guys will travel to a last chance meet next weekend.
6th: Robert Rasnick: 5.15m, 16' 10.5"
8th: Joeseph Berry: 5.00m, 16' 4.5"
The Vols pole vaulters had a difficult day at the SEC's. Joe Berry had excellent warm-ups but was not able to carry that momentum into the meet. He struggled with standard placement and had some inconsistencies in his run. Rasnick also had some difficulties with his run, but managed to battle back for a big 3rd attempt clearance at 5.15m. This ends the Tennessee streak of 8 consecutive SEC pole vault championships. Although we were all disappointed in the results, the guys have the time and the talent to rally back this year. The guys will travel to a last chance meet next weekend.
Tim Mack - Former Vol wins 2010 USA Indoor Championships
Former Vol Tim Mack, still vaulting at age 37, won the USATF indoor championships Saturday afternoon. He vaulted a season best 5.70m (18' 8.5") to take the win. Lools like Tim will be making the trip to the Persian Gulf to visit Doha, Qatar. This is the site for the 2010 World Indoor championships. He and Derek Miles finished 1-2 at the USA indoors.
UT POLE VAULT - HIGHLIGHT TRAILER
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http://www.viddler.com/explore/tennpolevault/videos/8
Virginia Tech #2
Blacksburg, VA
Brad Holtz: 5.21m - 17' 1" (unattached)
Joe Berry: 5.05m - 16' 6"
Robert Rasnick - NH
A mixed bag of results here. All three vaulters appear to be on the upswing, but the results didn't really come to fruition here. Brad Holtz (competing sick) completed his third consecutive meet over 17', showing the most confidence and consistency of his career. He continues to tweak things as he prepares to complete his final season of outdoor eligbility for the Vols. Joe Berry continues to show signs of big things to come if he can clean up his take-off and and be more efficient on bigger poles. Robert Rasnick appeared to regain his confidence in Virginia and the sky is the limit for him when things all come together. Joe and Brad will now prepare for a very deep competition at the SEC. We hope to bring home another crown to Big Orange Country and to provide much needed points to the men's team.
Brad Holtz: 5.21m - 17' 1" (unattached)
Joe Berry: 5.05m - 16' 6"
Robert Rasnick - NH
A mixed bag of results here. All three vaulters appear to be on the upswing, but the results didn't really come to fruition here. Brad Holtz (competing sick) completed his third consecutive meet over 17', showing the most confidence and consistency of his career. He continues to tweak things as he prepares to complete his final season of outdoor eligbility for the Vols. Joe Berry continues to show signs of big things to come if he can clean up his take-off and and be more efficient on bigger poles. Robert Rasnick appeared to regain his confidence in Virginia and the sky is the limit for him when things all come together. Joe and Brad will now prepare for a very deep competition at the SEC. We hope to bring home another crown to Big Orange Country and to provide much needed points to the men's team.
New Balance Invitational
New York City
2. Joe Berry: 5.20m, 17': SB
3. Brad Holtz: 5.20m, 17'
6. Robert Rasnick: 5.10m, 16'9"
The guys competed well in New York, always a fun but hectic meet to attend. Joe set a seasonal best, clearing 17' feet as he regains his form from injury. Brad vaulted very well, easily clearing 17' feet and having good attempts at a PR of 17'4". Robert started slowly but had a big clearance at 16'8" before just missing due to standards at 17'. We will train for the next 2 weeks to prepare for out run-up to SEC's and NCAA's.
2. Joe Berry: 5.20m, 17': SB
3. Brad Holtz: 5.20m, 17'
6. Robert Rasnick: 5.10m, 16'9"
The guys competed well in New York, always a fun but hectic meet to attend. Joe set a seasonal best, clearing 17' feet as he regains his form from injury. Brad vaulted very well, easily clearing 17' feet and having good attempts at a PR of 17'4". Robert started slowly but had a big clearance at 16'8" before just missing due to standards at 17'. We will train for the next 2 weeks to prepare for out run-up to SEC's and NCAA's.
Rod McCravy Invitational
Lexington, KY
2. Robert Rasnick: 5.20m - 17' .5" - Indoor PR
3. Brad Holtz: 5.20m - 17' .5" (unattached)
4. Joe Berry : 5.05m - 16'6"
9. Chase Brannon: 14' 7" (unattached)
In spite of the tough travel conditions and weather, the Volunteer pole vault squad took a huge step in the right direction Saturday afternoon. Robert Rasnick vaulted more aggressively today, still at a short approach to easily clear 17' and take shots at 17' 6". Brad Holtz vaulted well from 7 lefts as well, clearing clearing an early season best of 17'. He vaulted with a heavy heart after losing his grandmother this weekend. Prayers go out to his family. Joe Berry returned to action, clearing 16'6" in his first meet back. He looks for much bigger heights in the next month, as he gets things dialed in from long run. Chase Brannon looks for bigger heights as he implements some major technical changes. Robert, Brad, and Joe will now prepare for a major competition in New York next weekend.
2. Robert Rasnick: 5.20m - 17' .5" - Indoor PR
3. Brad Holtz: 5.20m - 17' .5" (unattached)
4. Joe Berry : 5.05m - 16'6"
9. Chase Brannon: 14' 7" (unattached)
In spite of the tough travel conditions and weather, the Volunteer pole vault squad took a huge step in the right direction Saturday afternoon. Robert Rasnick vaulted more aggressively today, still at a short approach to easily clear 17' and take shots at 17' 6". Brad Holtz vaulted well from 7 lefts as well, clearing clearing an early season best of 17'. He vaulted with a heavy heart after losing his grandmother this weekend. Prayers go out to his family. Joe Berry returned to action, clearing 16'6" in his first meet back. He looks for much bigger heights in the next month, as he gets things dialed in from long run. Chase Brannon looks for bigger heights as he implements some major technical changes. Robert, Brad, and Joe will now prepare for a major competition in New York next weekend.
Virginia Tech
Blacksburg, VA
Robert Rasnick: 4.97m - 16'3.5" Indoor PR
Robert Rasnick: 4.97m - 16'3.5" Indoor PR
Chase Brannon: 4.60m - 15' 1" PR
Brad Holtz: NH @ 4.97
The guys took a step in the right direction this weekend, although they continued to struggle a bit. Chase Brannon competed well in the Friday night section, setting a new personal best. Robert Rasnick set a new indoor PR, vaulting from a short approach. Brad Holtz had very solid warm-ups but failed to clear his opening height.
Kentucky Invite
Robert Rasnick: 15'7" - Tennessee
Chase Brannon: 14' 00" - Unattached
Brad Holtz : NH (@ 16') - Unattached
Joe Berry: DNC
The squad struggled in the season opener, as we failed to find the level of aggressiveness and competitiveness we have been pursuing. The guys have shown great commitment in training to achieve their seasonal and team goals and we will move forward as a team to make those goals a reality. We look forward our next competition at Virginia Tech which should provide a high level of competition and an excellent venue.
Chase Brannon: 14' 00" - Unattached
Brad Holtz : NH (@ 16') - Unattached
Joe Berry: DNC
The squad struggled in the season opener, as we failed to find the level of aggressiveness and competitiveness we have been pursuing. The guys have shown great commitment in training to achieve their seasonal and team goals and we will move forward as a team to make those goals a reality. We look forward our next competition at Virginia Tech which should provide a high level of competition and an excellent venue.
Orange and White 2009
The guys competed in a fun little intrasquad meet tonight to put the finishing touches on a nice fall of training. Freshman Chase Brannon won based on the point system, while clearing 14'9" in the "jump off" section. His lifetime best is 15'. Brad, Joe, and Robert all cleared 4.90 easily, had nice attempts at 5.05, but then went to take shots at 5.20. All were jumping from short run ups. A point system was used and each vaulter had a total of 6 attempts, starting at lower than usual heights. Also in attendance were jumps coach Jerome Romain, team sports psychologist Dr. Joe Whitney, legendary UT pole vault coach Jim Bemiller, and former vaulter and team captain Jeff Trembley.
Fall Training 2009
They guys have been focussed and diligent this season as the program has undergone a transition. We have kept our eye on the ball as each guy has worked to improve on his most pressing areas of need. We plan to finish our training this week with a meet simulation from short to medium runs. As things stand now, we are planning on attending the following meets for the indoor season.
Meet #1: Kentucky Invitational
Meet #2: Virginia Tech
Meet #3: Rod McCravy - Kentucky
Meet #4: New York - New Balance Collegiate
Off Week
Meet #5: Virginia Tech
Meet #6: SEC Championships - Arkansas (USA Indoor - Brad Holtz)
Meet #7: Last Chance - hopefully not needed
Meet #8: NCAA Championships
Meet #1: Kentucky Invitational
Meet #2: Virginia Tech
Meet #3: Rod McCravy - Kentucky
Meet #4: New York - New Balance Collegiate
Off Week
Meet #5: Virginia Tech
Meet #6: SEC Championships - Arkansas (USA Indoor - Brad Holtz)
Meet #7: Last Chance - hopefully not needed
Meet #8: NCAA Championships
Former Vol Tom Pappas wins Thorpe Cup
Five-time U.S. champion and 2003 world champion decathlete Tom Pappas, an Azalea native and Glendale High graduate, posted the second best score in the world this year in leading Team USA to victory over Germany at the 16th annual Thorpe Cup combined events challenge over the weekend.
Pappas, who was not at full strength earlier in the year and did not compete at the USA Outdoor Championships in Eugene, posted his best score in five years with 8,569 points in leading the Team USA men's squad to victory.
Looking to The Future
With the retirement of head coach Bill Webb, the University has decided to unite the men's and women's team under a singular director, JJ Clark. The tradition of great pole vaulting will continue at UT, as JJ has promised his full support of our long tradition. The Vols will have its top 3 vaulters returning from last year including Joe Berry, Brad Holtz and Robert Rasnick. We will also be welcoming Freshman Chase Brannon from Brentwood Academy in Tennessee. I continue to have high hopes for this crew in the future, although two key components have chosen to abdicate their place in Tennessee pole vault history and move on to other schools. We are hoping to see at least one if not three vols eclipse the 18 foot mark next year and to see us continue to pursue conference and national championships.
SEC OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Gainesville, FL
1. Joe Berry - 17' 7.75"
4. Brad Holtz - 16' 10.5"
7. Michael Ayers - 16' 6.5"
11. Michael Seaman - 16'
Joe fought hard to bring home the Vols 8th consecutive SEC crown. It was his third SEC title. He cleared a season best 5.38m. He made his last 3 bars on the first attempt, keeping pressure on his competition. Brad Holtz tied his outdoor personal best, bringing home a strong 4th place finish. Michael Ayers scrapped for points, clearing 5.05m the day after finishing a hard fought decathlon in the heat. All four guys are qualified for the NCAA regionals.
1. Joe Berry - 17' 7.75"
4. Brad Holtz - 16' 10.5"
7. Michael Ayers - 16' 6.5"
11. Michael Seaman - 16'
Joe fought hard to bring home the Vols 8th consecutive SEC crown. It was his third SEC title. He cleared a season best 5.38m. He made his last 3 bars on the first attempt, keeping pressure on his competition. Brad Holtz tied his outdoor personal best, bringing home a strong 4th place finish. Michael Ayers scrapped for points, clearing 5.05m the day after finishing a hard fought decathlon in the heat. All four guys are qualified for the NCAA regionals.
HOLTZ NAMED TO SEC COMMUNITY SERVICE TEAM
Tennessee junior Brad Holtz was named to the 2009 SEC Community Service Team, the league office announced Tuesday. Holtz was selected as Tennessee's male representative for track and field because of his numerous contributions to the Knoxville community.
Holtz served as the track and field team chair for the "Teams for Toys" program during the holiday season, which made each UT team responsible for purchasing gifts for a group of underprivileged children in the Knoxville area, wrapping them and delivering them. He also helped the track and field team on a Habitat for Humanity project in downtown Knoxville during the fall of 2008. The Barrington, R.I. native joined other track athletes on their annual fall trip to the East Tennessee Children's Hospital to visit patients and families as well.
He assisted several UT athletes in opening up a campus dining hall for the homeless and underprivileged on Thanksgiving, and was one of several UT athletes to serve hot chocolate to UT students on the pedestrian walkway during the winter.
The SEC sponsors Community Service Teams for all 20 league sponsored sports. The Community Service Team looks to highlight an athlete from each school who gives back to his community in superior service efforts.
SMOKEY MOUNTAIN TWILIGHT
Knoxville, TN
1. Michael Seaman - 5.05m, 16' 6.5" Ties PR
2. Brad Holtz - 4.90m, 16'
3. Michael Ayers - 4.72, 15' 6"
5. Matthew Best - 10' 6"
The guys vaulted in a low key meet at home on Tuesday night. Conditions were pretty good, with lightly swirling winds. Mikey won his first college meet with first attempt clearances at 4.90 and 5.05. He continues his progression this outdoor season, jumping 5.05 in his last 2 meets. 5.15-5.25 should come soon if he can shore up his take-off a bit and finish his swing aggressively. Bradley Holtz and Ayers were a bit off there game tonight but will build off of fine practices to prepare for the SEC.
PENN RELAYS
Philadelphia, PA
1. Joe Berry - 17' 4.5"
8. Micheal Seaman - 16' 6.5" PR
10. Brad Holtz - 16' 0.5"
1. Joe Berry - 17' 4.5"
8. Micheal Seaman - 16' 6.5" PR
10. Brad Holtz - 16' 0.5"
Joe Berry captured the Penn Relays Championship title by clearing 5.30m and having less misses at earlier heights. He returned to his old stomping grounds where he broke the Penn Relays record his senior year of high school. Michael Seaman continued his progression by clearing a personal best of 5.05m and achieving his first career regional qualifier. Brad Holtz cleared 16', struggling a bit during the meet after very good warm-ups. Competitoin was strong in this meet as many of the top NCAA vaulters were in attendance. The temperature was very hot and the crowd was tremendous, similar to a college football game. The winds were swirling in all directions and required some toughness from the vaulters. The guys will now prepare for the Smokey Mountain Twilight meet as they continue to gear up for SEC's and beyond.
SEA RAY RELAYS
Open Section
1st: Robert Rasnick 17'1" Unattached Double PR
Michael Seaman - Tennessee: NH
Invite Section
Brad Holtz - Tenn: NH
Joe Berry - Tenn: NH
This years version of the annual Sea Ray meet was a bit marred by weather. It seemed to get the best of the field. It was a mix of good and bad for the squad. Joe, Brad, and Michael all suffered from lackluster warm-ups and failed to clear the opening height. Hopefully, this disappointment will lead to increased determination and committment to rebound for the next meet. Redshirt Robert Rasnick was the highlight of the day, battling through difficult warm-ups to clear two lifetime bests. He was able to negotiate 16'6 and then 17'1, while still vaulting from 7 lefts. He continues to show he has big time vault potential after setting a lifetime best last week at 16'3". Although the sections were separate, Robert had the highest vault of the day for either section and had a few nice jumps at 5.30m.
1st: Robert Rasnick 17'1" Unattached Double PR
Michael Seaman - Tennessee: NH
Invite Section
Brad Holtz - Tenn: NH
Joe Berry - Tenn: NH
This years version of the annual Sea Ray meet was a bit marred by weather. It seemed to get the best of the field. It was a mix of good and bad for the squad. Joe, Brad, and Michael all suffered from lackluster warm-ups and failed to clear the opening height. Hopefully, this disappointment will lead to increased determination and committment to rebound for the next meet. Redshirt Robert Rasnick was the highlight of the day, battling through difficult warm-ups to clear two lifetime bests. He was able to negotiate 16'6 and then 17'1, while still vaulting from 7 lefts. He continues to show he has big time vault potential after setting a lifetime best last week at 16'3". Although the sections were separate, Robert had the highest vault of the day for either section and had a few nice jumps at 5.30m.
2009 FLORIDA RELAYS
The University of Florida
2. Berry, Joseph Tennessee 5.35m 17-06.50 SB
3. Ayers, Michael Tennessee 5.15m 16-10.75 Outdoor PR
8. Robert Rasnick Unattached-Tenn 4.96 16-02.75 PR
8. Seaman, Michael Tennessee 4.95m 16-02.75 Outdoor PR
10. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 4.80m 15-09.00
The guys made their first full return to outdoor competition at the Florida Relays. The sun was out and the temperature was perfect for pole vaulting. The winds were switchy and the direction of the pit was an issue. Joe Berry fought through inconsistent winds to place 2nd with a seasonal best of 5.35m. Michael Ayers jumped an outdoor personal best of 16-10.5" to continue his recent string of vaulting. People watching were freaked out by his 14 to 15 foot take-offs. Both guys achieved regional qualifying marks. Redshirt Robert Rasnick, broke through today with some 7 lefts vaulting to clear 4.95. He blew through all his poles but was fortunate to borrow a few poles from fellow competitors. Michael Seaman continued his miraculous return to vaulting, having his first comp from full run. He cleared 4.95m to eclipse his outdoor PR from last year. Brad Holtz showed signs of returning to form as he progressed through to some bigger poles and had more consistency in his run. We will hope for good weather and nice winds at the Sea Ray Relays.
2. Berry, Joseph Tennessee 5.35m 17-06.50 SB
3. Ayers, Michael Tennessee 5.15m 16-10.75 Outdoor PR
8. Robert Rasnick Unattached-Tenn 4.96 16-02.75 PR
8. Seaman, Michael Tennessee 4.95m 16-02.75 Outdoor PR
10. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 4.80m 15-09.00
The guys made their first full return to outdoor competition at the Florida Relays. The sun was out and the temperature was perfect for pole vaulting. The winds were switchy and the direction of the pit was an issue. Joe Berry fought through inconsistent winds to place 2nd with a seasonal best of 5.35m. Michael Ayers jumped an outdoor personal best of 16-10.5" to continue his recent string of vaulting. People watching were freaked out by his 14 to 15 foot take-offs. Both guys achieved regional qualifying marks. Redshirt Robert Rasnick, broke through today with some 7 lefts vaulting to clear 4.95. He blew through all his poles but was fortunate to borrow a few poles from fellow competitors. Michael Seaman continued his miraculous return to vaulting, having his first comp from full run. He cleared 4.95m to eclipse his outdoor PR from last year. Brad Holtz showed signs of returning to form as he progressed through to some bigger poles and had more consistency in his run. We will hope for good weather and nice winds at the Sea Ray Relays.
2009 SEC INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
1. Joe Berry: 17' 3" 5.26m Tennessee
2. Brad Holtz: 17' 3" 5.26m Tennessee
4. Michael Ayers: 17'00" 5.18m Tennessee PR
The boys vaulted with confidence and toughness this weekend at the SEC Championships in Lexington, KY bringing home 23 points for the Vols with only three athletes. Joe Berry battled through difficult warm-ups to vault without a miss through the winning height and achieve a season best and indoor PR. In his 3 SEC championship meets, Joe has not had a miss until his final height. Brad Holtz validated his recent improvments by vaulting very cleanly througout the meet, achieving his highest SEC finish ever. Michael Ayers came back from winning the hepthathlon on Saturday night (and vaulting a PR of 5.15m) to place fourth in the open vault. He cleared 17 feet for the first time ever and remains at 7 lefts. The guys continued Tennessee's streak of SEC Championships to 7. We hope to attend a last chance meet this weekend to get NCAA qualifying marks in the vault.
2. Brad Holtz: 17' 3" 5.26m Tennessee
4. Michael Ayers: 17'00" 5.18m Tennessee PR
The boys vaulted with confidence and toughness this weekend at the SEC Championships in Lexington, KY bringing home 23 points for the Vols with only three athletes. Joe Berry battled through difficult warm-ups to vault without a miss through the winning height and achieve a season best and indoor PR. In his 3 SEC championship meets, Joe has not had a miss until his final height. Brad Holtz validated his recent improvments by vaulting very cleanly througout the meet, achieving his highest SEC finish ever. Michael Ayers came back from winning the hepthathlon on Saturday night (and vaulting a PR of 5.15m) to place fourth in the open vault. He cleared 17 feet for the first time ever and remains at 7 lefts. The guys continued Tennessee's streak of SEC Championships to 7. We hope to attend a last chance meet this weekend to get NCAA qualifying marks in the vault.
Virginia Tech Challenge
7th: Joe Berry 5.12m 16' 9.5"
7th: Michael Ayers 5.12m 16' 9.5" PR
9th: Brad Holtz 4.92m 16' 2"
Robert Rasnick: NH
Michael Ayers bounced back from New York with a new personal best as he prepares for the SEC Heptathlon and pole vault. Brad and Joe continue to prepare for the SEC and look to improve their marks on the NCAA list in the coming weeks.
7th: Michael Ayers 5.12m 16' 9.5" PR
9th: Brad Holtz 4.92m 16' 2"
Robert Rasnick: NH
Michael Ayers bounced back from New York with a new personal best as he prepares for the SEC Heptathlon and pole vault. Brad and Joe continue to prepare for the SEC and look to improve their marks on the NCAA list in the coming weeks.
NEW BALANCE COLLEGIATE INVITATIONAL
RESULTS:
2. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 5.30m 17-04.50 PR X 2
7. Berry, Joseph Tennessee 5.20m 17-00.75 Indoor PR
Michael Ayers: NH
Brad and Joe had very nice meets, both achieving new PR's. Brad finally broke through the 17 foot barrier on his third attempt, only to go ahead and clear 17'4.5" on his first attempt. Congrats to Brad on his a big double PR DAY. Joe set a new indoor PR and looks to be progressing nicely back to his championship form from a year ago. Michael Ayers stuggled with pole selection, blowing through all his poles at early heights.
2. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 5.30m 17-04.50 PR X 2
7. Berry, Joseph Tennessee 5.20m 17-00.75 Indoor PR
Michael Ayers: NH
Brad and Joe had very nice meets, both achieving new PR's. Brad finally broke through the 17 foot barrier on his third attempt, only to go ahead and clear 17'4.5" on his first attempt. Congrats to Brad on his a big double PR DAY. Joe set a new indoor PR and looks to be progressing nicely back to his championship form from a year ago. Michael Ayers stuggled with pole selection, blowing through all his poles at early heights.
Clemson JRF Multi-Event Challenge
Michael Ayers - 5.10m 16' 8.75" PR
Matthew Best - 3.30m 10' 9.75"
Tennessee sophomore Michael Ayers won the JRF Multi-Event Challenge on Saturday with a career-best and NCAA provisional -qualifying total of 5,590 points. He posted career-bests in two individual events and also moved into fifth place on Tennessee's all-time top-10 list with his score.
Matthew Best - 3.30m 10' 9.75"
Tennessee sophomore Michael Ayers won the JRF Multi-Event Challenge on Saturday with a career-best and NCAA provisional -qualifying total of 5,590 points. He posted career-bests in two individual events and also moved into fifth place on Tennessee's all-time top-10 list with his score.
NAVAL ACADEMY
Results:
1. Joe Berry: 4.80m - 15'9"
NH Brad Holtz
Our poles never arrived thanks to horrendous logistics of Delta Cargo (whom we will never use again). We managed to borrow poles from Navy and tried to make do. We will regroup and train in preparation for the New Balance Invitational. Joe Berry is showing signs of coming back from his groin injury in December.
1. Joe Berry: 4.80m - 15'9"
NH Brad Holtz
Our poles never arrived thanks to horrendous logistics of Delta Cargo (whom we will never use again). We managed to borrow poles from Navy and tried to make do. We will regroup and train in preparation for the New Balance Invitational. Joe Berry is showing signs of coming back from his groin injury in December.
Kentucky Invitational
Results:
4. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 4.90m 16-00.75
6. Ayers, Michael Tennessee 4.90m 16-00.75
7. Seaman, Michael Tennessee 4.75m 15-07.00
10. Berry, Joe Tennessee 4.75m 15-07.00
14. Robert Rasnick Unattached 4.60m 15-1
Michael Seaman had a scary crash into the box and was taken to UK hospital via ambulance. He sustained a significant vertebral injury and ankle injury. Thankfully his prognosis is good to vault again in the future. He was in great condition coming into this meet and was fresh off of a recent personal best.
4. Holtz, Brad Tennessee 4.90m 16-00.75
6. Ayers, Michael Tennessee 4.90m 16-00.75
7. Seaman, Michael Tennessee 4.75m 15-07.00
10. Berry, Joe Tennessee 4.75m 15-07.00
14. Robert Rasnick Unattached 4.60m 15-1
Michael Seaman had a scary crash into the box and was taken to UK hospital via ambulance. He sustained a significant vertebral injury and ankle injury. Thankfully his prognosis is good to vault again in the future. He was in great condition coming into this meet and was fresh off of a recent personal best.
Virginia Tech Invitational - Season Opener
Pit 1:
4th : Michael Seaman, 5.01m PR
7th : Bradley Holtz, 5.01m
Pit 2:
5th: Robert Rasnick: 4.50m
The guys traveled to Virginia Tech for the season opener. Michael Seaman confirmed his recent improvements in practice by making a first attempt clearance @ 5.01m, a new PR. Brad cleared on his 2nd attempt. Both Brad and Michael had attempts @ a new PR of 5.16m. Robert Rasnick competed as an unattached athlete today as he made his opening height on the first attempt. He should see significant improvements as he gets back into the groove of vaulting again. The guys travel to Kentucky next week and expect for Joe Berry and Michael Ayers to be added to the competition.
4th : Michael Seaman, 5.01m PR
7th : Bradley Holtz, 5.01m
Pit 2:
5th: Robert Rasnick: 4.50m
The guys traveled to Virginia Tech for the season opener. Michael Seaman confirmed his recent improvements in practice by making a first attempt clearance @ 5.01m, a new PR. Brad cleared on his 2nd attempt. Both Brad and Michael had attempts @ a new PR of 5.16m. Robert Rasnick competed as an unattached athlete today as he made his opening height on the first attempt. He should see significant improvements as he gets back into the groove of vaulting again. The guys travel to Kentucky next week and expect for Joe Berry and Michael Ayers to be added to the competition.
Tennessee Welcomes New Vaulter
The UT pole vault corps welcomes mid-year transfer Robert Rasnick. Robert has transferred to Big Orange country from Cedarville College in Ohio. He holds a personal best of 4.88m. He was an NAIA All-American last year at Cedarville. He vaulted 15-8 in high school and also was a Level 10 high school gymnast.
Orange and White #2
Results from our annual Orange and White #2 on December 10th 2009. Based on point system for number of bars cleared and bonus points for clearing first bar on first attempt.
1. Michael Ayers: 4.90 (6 lefts, decathlete) Short run PR, 4 bars, 1st attempt bonus. Misses @ 5.05m.
2. Joe Berry: 5.05m (7 lefts): Short run PR, 3 bars, 1st attempt bonus. Misses @ 5.23m
3. Brad Holtz: 5.05m (7 lefts): Short run PR, 3 bars, no bonus. Misses @ 5.20m
4. Michael Seaman: 4.75 (7 lefts). Ties short run PR, 2 bars. First attempt bonus. Misses @ 4.90m
1. Michael Ayers: 4.90 (6 lefts, decathlete) Short run PR, 4 bars, 1st attempt bonus. Misses @ 5.05m.
2. Joe Berry: 5.05m (7 lefts): Short run PR, 3 bars, 1st attempt bonus. Misses @ 5.23m
3. Brad Holtz: 5.05m (7 lefts): Short run PR, 3 bars, no bonus. Misses @ 5.20m
4. Michael Seaman: 4.75 (7 lefts). Ties short run PR, 2 bars. First attempt bonus. Misses @ 4.90m
2008 IAAF WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - FINALS
OFFICIAL RESULTS
1 308 Raphael HOLZDEPPE GER 5.50 89
2 603 Pawel WOJCIECHOWSKI POL 89 5.40
3 291 Karsten DILLA GER 89 5.30
4 358 Dezsö SZABÓ HUN 89 5.30 PB
5 273 Andrew MARSH GBR 90 5.20
6 146 Rasmus Wejnold JØRGENSE DEN 89 5.20 NJ
7 806 Joe BERRY USA 89 5.10 - O XO XXX
7 436 Hiroki SASASE JPN 89 5.10 -
9 651 Anatoliy BEDNYUK RUS 89 5.10 -
10 843 Maston WALLACE USA 89 5.00 - O - XXX
11 644 Cheyne RAHME RSA 91 5.00
12 420 Yuya ARIAKE JPN 89 4.85
1 308 Raphael HOLZDEPPE GER 5.50 89
2 603 Pawel WOJCIECHOWSKI POL 89 5.40
3 291 Karsten DILLA GER 89 5.30
4 358 Dezsö SZABÓ HUN 89 5.30 PB
5 273 Andrew MARSH GBR 90 5.20
6 146 Rasmus Wejnold JØRGENSE DEN 89 5.20 NJ
7 806 Joe BERRY USA 89 5.10 - O XO XXX
7 436 Hiroki SASASE JPN 89 5.10 -
9 651 Anatoliy BEDNYUK RUS 89 5.10 -
10 843 Maston WALLACE USA 89 5.00 - O - XXX
11 644 Cheyne RAHME RSA 91 5.00
12 420 Yuya ARIAKE JPN 89 4.85
WORLD JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - Qualifying
BYDGOSZCZ, POLAND
Joe Berry has traveled to Poland for the World Championships for Juniors (Under 20 years of age). Joe and Maston Wallace (ncaa champion from Texas) both failed to receive poles for the qualifying round. USATF delayed logistical plans for pole shipping in spite of repeated efforts to make early and complete arrangements. International shipping of poles has become very, very difficult.
In spite of challenges with poles and swirling winds, both guys managed to make the finals, which take place on Saturday. Joe made a gutsy 3rd attempt clearance on his opening bar to get in the meet.
FROM USATF WEBSITE.......
Despite having to borrow poles for the qualifying round, both Tennessee's Joe Berry and Maston Wallace of Texas cleared a height of 5.10m/16-8.75 to reach the finals of the men's pole vault. Both vaulters have experienced shipping problems with the poles they normally use in competition. Berry expects his to be in Poland in time for the finals, but Wallace's set of poles never got farther than Houston, Texas. U.S. Junior champion Berry avoided quick elimination by getting over 4.90m/16-0.75 on his third try. After taking two attempts to clear 5.00m/16-4.75, Berry eased over 5.10m/16-8.75 on one attempt.
"The beginning was a little rough, since it took me a little while to get into my groove. The wind was swirling quite a bit and we're not even jumping on our own poles. We had to borrow some poles, so it's a makeshift Lincoln log type deal going on right now.
"As the bar got higher things started to come around on the poles we're using here. When I cleared 5.10 that's when I felt my best. Going in I wasn't penetrating at all, I was coming down on the bar almost every time. On the 5.10 jump I finally started to penetrate and it started to come around.
"It was a relief to know that we could jump on these poles that we borrowed. Now, going into the finals we have more confidence."
Joe Berry, Pole Vault
"It took me three jumps to actually clear a bar. So I was pretty nervous. Standing back on the runway for my third attempt I was thinking 'I did not travel 3,000 miles to no height.' Luckily, I made it. That certainly got my adrenaline going. Then I started hitting my steps in the right place.
"The wind was really swirling, one jump would be a headwind and then next would be a tailwind. Then another jump would have a crosswind. As the meet progressed we just got used to it and started making bars. I even moved up poles on my first attempt at 5.10 and almost hit it on my way up, which is a good sign.
"In most field events, like the throws, a shot put is a shot put, but every pole is kind of individualized. It takes a while to get used to it. That's why you always want to jump on your own poles, because you know exactly how they're going to uncork, how they're going to bend and toss you. So jumping on new poles is just a transition period in the beginning.
"We only had three warm-up jumps each, so it was a bit difficult getting use to the new poles. Hopefully my poles are getting here today so that I'll have them for the final.">>>
Joe Berry has traveled to Poland for the World Championships for Juniors (Under 20 years of age). Joe and Maston Wallace (ncaa champion from Texas) both failed to receive poles for the qualifying round. USATF delayed logistical plans for pole shipping in spite of repeated efforts to make early and complete arrangements. International shipping of poles has become very, very difficult.
In spite of challenges with poles and swirling winds, both guys managed to make the finals, which take place on Saturday. Joe made a gutsy 3rd attempt clearance on his opening bar to get in the meet.
FROM USATF WEBSITE.......
Despite having to borrow poles for the qualifying round, both Tennessee's Joe Berry and Maston Wallace of Texas cleared a height of 5.10m/16-8.75 to reach the finals of the men's pole vault. Both vaulters have experienced shipping problems with the poles they normally use in competition. Berry expects his to be in Poland in time for the finals, but Wallace's set of poles never got farther than Houston, Texas. U.S. Junior champion Berry avoided quick elimination by getting over 4.90m/16-0.75 on his third try. After taking two attempts to clear 5.00m/16-4.75, Berry eased over 5.10m/16-8.75 on one attempt.
"The beginning was a little rough, since it took me a little while to get into my groove. The wind was swirling quite a bit and we're not even jumping on our own poles. We had to borrow some poles, so it's a makeshift Lincoln log type deal going on right now.
"As the bar got higher things started to come around on the poles we're using here. When I cleared 5.10 that's when I felt my best. Going in I wasn't penetrating at all, I was coming down on the bar almost every time. On the 5.10 jump I finally started to penetrate and it started to come around.
"It was a relief to know that we could jump on these poles that we borrowed. Now, going into the finals we have more confidence."
Joe Berry, Pole Vault
"It took me three jumps to actually clear a bar. So I was pretty nervous. Standing back on the runway for my third attempt I was thinking 'I did not travel 3,000 miles to no height.' Luckily, I made it. That certainly got my adrenaline going. Then I started hitting my steps in the right place.
"The wind was really swirling, one jump would be a headwind and then next would be a tailwind. Then another jump would have a crosswind. As the meet progressed we just got used to it and started making bars. I even moved up poles on my first attempt at 5.10 and almost hit it on my way up, which is a good sign.
"In most field events, like the throws, a shot put is a shot put, but every pole is kind of individualized. It takes a while to get used to it. That's why you always want to jump on your own poles, because you know exactly how they're going to uncork, how they're going to bend and toss you. So jumping on new poles is just a transition period in the beginning.
"We only had three warm-up jumps each, so it was a bit difficult getting use to the new poles. Hopefully my poles are getting here today so that I'll have them for the final.">>>
Michael Hogue and Jangy Addy Name Academic All-Americans
from UTSPORTS.COM........
Tennessee track and field athletes Jangy Addy and Michael Hogue were named to the ESPN The Magazine All-America men’s track and field/cross country team this week. The team is voted on by members of College Sports Information Directors of America.
“These guys have set a great examples in their time at Tennessee,” head coach Bill Webb said. “They have excelled on the track, in the classroom and in community service. They are both great students and have earned strong degrees. I couldn’t be prouder of this accomplishment for them.”
Addy, a senior from Norcross, Ga., was named to the first team behind the strength of a 3.56 undergraduate GPA in journalism and electronic media. He makes his second appearance on the Academic All-America team after earning second-team honors last season. The team captain won his fourth consecutive SEC multi-event crown and became just the 62nd American and fifth UT athlete to break the 8,000-point mark in the decathlon with his victorious score of 8,010. Addy’s score broke Auburn’s Hutsell-Rosen Track record and included a collegiate-record run of 13.70 in the decathlon 110 hurdles, as well as school-record marks of 10.58 in the decathlon 100 and 53-6 1/2 in the decathlon shot put. Addy also earned conference acclaim this year, as he was named SEC Indoor Field Athlete of the Year and SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Addy has twice been named to the USTFCCCA All-Academic team and is a four-time SEC Honor Roll selection who graduated in December.
Hogue earned second-team honors behind his 3.41 GPA in nursing. The senior from Germantown earned the third All-America certificate of his career with a seventh-place finish in the pole vault at the NCAA Indoor Championships before an injury cut short his outdoor season. He won his third straight SEC indoor pole vault title, becoming just the second athlete in conference history to won three consecutive SEC indoor pole vault crowns. His personal-best clearance of 17-8 1/2 ranks 10th on Tennessee’s all-time performance list in the pole vault. Hogue has twice been named to the USTFCCCA All-Academic team and is a four-time SEC Honor Roll selection.
“These guys have set a great examples in their time at Tennessee,” head coach Bill Webb said. “They have excelled on the track, in the classroom and in community service. They are both great students and have earned strong degrees. I couldn’t be prouder of this accomplishment for them.”
Addy, a senior from Norcross, Ga., was named to the first team behind the strength of a 3.56 undergraduate GPA in journalism and electronic media. He makes his second appearance on the Academic All-America team after earning second-team honors last season. The team captain won his fourth consecutive SEC multi-event crown and became just the 62nd American and fifth UT athlete to break the 8,000-point mark in the decathlon with his victorious score of 8,010. Addy’s score broke Auburn’s Hutsell-Rosen Track record and included a collegiate-record run of 13.70 in the decathlon 110 hurdles, as well as school-record marks of 10.58 in the decathlon 100 and 53-6 1/2 in the decathlon shot put. Addy also earned conference acclaim this year, as he was named SEC Indoor Field Athlete of the Year and SEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Addy has twice been named to the USTFCCCA All-Academic team and is a four-time SEC Honor Roll selection who graduated in December.
Hogue earned second-team honors behind his 3.41 GPA in nursing. The senior from Germantown earned the third All-America certificate of his career with a seventh-place finish in the pole vault at the NCAA Indoor Championships before an injury cut short his outdoor season. He won his third straight SEC indoor pole vault title, becoming just the second athlete in conference history to won three consecutive SEC indoor pole vault crowns. His personal-best clearance of 17-8 1/2 ranks 10th on Tennessee’s all-time performance list in the pole vault. Hogue has twice been named to the USTFCCCA All-Academic team and is a four-time SEC Honor Roll selection.
2008 USATF JUNIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Columbus, Ohio -- The Ohio State University
1st: Joe Berry: 5.30m
2nd: Maston Wallace: 5.30m
Joe battled today at the USATF Jr. meet which included a solid field of young collegiates and elite high school vaulters. The field included the recently crowned NCAA champion from Texas (Maston Wallace). Joe was behind on misses all day but made a crucial 1st attempt clearance at 5.30m to take and hold the lead, securing a National Championship title of his own. Both guys vaulted well considering the steady crosswinds. Both had some good attempts at the facility record. He and Maston also secured a place on the USA team which will travel to Poland next month for the World Championship meet. The World championships vault will take place on July 10th (qualifying) and July 12th (finals).
1st: Joe Berry: 5.30m
2nd: Maston Wallace: 5.30m
Joe battled today at the USATF Jr. meet which included a solid field of young collegiates and elite high school vaulters. The field included the recently crowned NCAA champion from Texas (Maston Wallace). Joe was behind on misses all day but made a crucial 1st attempt clearance at 5.30m to take and hold the lead, securing a National Championship title of his own. Both guys vaulted well considering the steady crosswinds. Both had some good attempts at the facility record. He and Maston also secured a place on the USA team which will travel to Poland next month for the World Championship meet. The World championships vault will take place on July 10th (qualifying) and July 12th (finals).
NCAA OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - FINAL
Des Moines, IA - Drake University
Joe Berry (Fr.) - 10th place; 5.10m
Joe battled rapidly changing winds to finish 10th overall. Although he was disappointed, he vaulted pretty well. The meet was won with only 5.35m, the lowest winning height in 29 years. It was difficult to make pole, run, and standard adjustments due to the swirling winds, but it was a great learning experience for Joe. He did a nice job of making the finals and showing that he belongs amongst the college elite vaulters.
Joe Berry (Fr.) - 10th place; 5.10m
Joe battled rapidly changing winds to finish 10th overall. Although he was disappointed, he vaulted pretty well. The meet was won with only 5.35m, the lowest winning height in 29 years. It was difficult to make pole, run, and standard adjustments due to the swirling winds, but it was a great learning experience for Joe. He did a nice job of making the finals and showing that he belongs amongst the college elite vaulters.
NCAA OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS - Decathlon
Des Moines, IA - Drake University
Michael Ayers: 16' 4"
Jangy Addy: 14'
Jangy and Michael competed well in the deca vaults. It was a little tough having them jumping on separate pits at the same time. In spite of his injuries, Jangy once again managed to vault 14 feet. Michael battled swirling winds and fatigue to post a multi-event PR of 5 meters and finish 3rd in the deca vault. Both athletes earned All-American status.
Michael Ayers: 16' 4"
Jangy Addy: 14'
Jangy and Michael competed well in the deca vaults. It was a little tough having them jumping on separate pits at the same time. In spite of his injuries, Jangy once again managed to vault 14 feet. Michael battled swirling winds and fatigue to post a multi-event PR of 5 meters and finish 3rd in the deca vault. Both athletes earned All-American status.
2008 NCAA CHAMPIONSHIPS - QUALIFYING
DES MOINES, IOWA - DRAKE UNIVERSITYJoe Berry had a solid day and qualified for the finals on Friday.
POLE VAULT QUALIFIERS
1 Spencer McCorkel FR Arkansas 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Yavgeniy Olhovsky SO Virginia Tech 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Joseph Berry FR Tennessee 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Dustin DeLeo JR UCLA 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Mitch Greeley SR Clemson 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Sean Young JR South Florida 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Brian Hancock SO Missouri 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Luke Schoen SO Albany 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Jeff Coover JR Indiana 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Jared O'Connor JR Washington 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Daniel Imlach SR Sacramento State 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Nick Frawley SO Air Force 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Maston Wallace FR Texas 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Robert Caldwell SR New Mexico 5.25mq 17-02.75
1 Johnny Quinn FR UCLA 5.25mq 17-02.75
MIDEAST REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS - DOUBLE PR FOR BERRY
University of Arkansas
Joe, Brad and Michael competed well at the Mideastern Regionals on Saturday. Joe continued his streak of amazing competitions by having a double PR day. Since moving to 9 lefts, the extra speed has really helped him progress though poles. He has won 6 of his 8 outdoor meets. After clearing 5.31m , he made a really nice clearance at 5.41m. Joe followed with 3 excellent attempts at 5.51m. He was robbed on his 3rd attempt as the bar bounced around a while and could have easily stayed up there. Bradley Holtz finished the season with some of his best vaulting, clearing 5.06m on his first attempt. He took a couple of good shots at a new PR of 5.21. Michael Ayers competed in the vault on Saturday in preparation for the NCAA decathlon. He continues to show consistency over 4.90 and had several nice attempts at a new PR of 5.06m
1. Joe Berry (Fr.)- 5.41m, 17' 9" (PR x 2)
11. Brad Holtz (So.)- 5.06, 16' 7"
17. Michael Ayers (Fr. Deca)- 4.91, 16' 1
Joe, Brad and Michael competed well at the Mideastern Regionals on Saturday. Joe continued his streak of amazing competitions by having a double PR day. Since moving to 9 lefts, the extra speed has really helped him progress though poles. He has won 6 of his 8 outdoor meets. After clearing 5.31m , he made a really nice clearance at 5.41m. Joe followed with 3 excellent attempts at 5.51m. He was robbed on his 3rd attempt as the bar bounced around a while and could have easily stayed up there. Bradley Holtz finished the season with some of his best vaulting, clearing 5.06m on his first attempt. He took a couple of good shots at a new PR of 5.21. Michael Ayers competed in the vault on Saturday in preparation for the NCAA decathlon. He continues to show consistency over 4.90 and had several nice attempts at a new PR of 5.06m
Berry Named SEC Freshman of the Year
Joe Berry was recently named the most outstanding freshman field event athlete in the SEC for 2008. He followed his runner-up finish indoors with a personal best and 1st place finish outdoors. Freshman compatriot Michael Ayers was named to the Freshman All-SEC team as well after finishing 3rd in the decathlon and 5th in the pole vault outdoors.
Jangy Addy awarded SEC Scholar Athlete of the Year
Decathlete Jangy Addy was awarded the 2008 SEC Scholar Athlete of The Year award. Jangy holds a 3.56 GPA in Journalism and electronic media. He is a 4 time SEC champion and 3 time All-American. He has improved his pole vault PR by 12 inches this year and has vaulted over 14 feet in all of his multi-event competitions. 
2008 SEC OUTDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS
Auburn, Alabama
1st: Joseph Berry (Fr.) - Tennessee - 5.25 (17' 2.5") PR, FR
5th: Michael Ayers (Fr.) - Tennessee - 5.05m (16' 6.5")PR
8th: Bradley Holtz (So.)- Tennessee - 4.95m (16' 2.5")
Joe, Michael, and Brad competed well in Auburn and secured 15 points for the Vols team effort. Four time SEC Champion and Senior team captain Michael Hogue was unable to compete in his final SEC Championship due to injury. He has handled the situation with impressive maturity and leadership. Joe Berry picked up where Michael left off by winning his first SEC title. Joe vaulted smartly and confidently over a new facility record and personal best. He had no misses until 17' 6" and cleared each bar with plenty to spare. His win extends the Tennessee pole vault streak of consecutive SEC titles to six. Decathlete Michael Ayers set a new personal best clearing 16' 6.5" on his 3rd attempt. He had a very nice attempt at 16' 11". His vaulting improved greatly as the competition progressed even after competing in the decathlon and finishing in 3rd place. Bradley Holtz made strides today before bowing out at 16'6". He moved through his largest poles ever and had to try to transition to 16 foot poles during the meet. The Tennessee pole vault crew has 4 vaulters qualified for the NCAA regional meet and will prepare to travel to Arkansas.
Smokey Mountain Twilight Meet
Knoxville, TN - Tom Black Track
1 Joseph Berry 5.05m 16-06.75
2 Brad Holtz 4.90m 16-00.75
3 Michael Ayers 4.90m 16-00.75 (ties PR)
3 Michael Seaman 4.90m 16-00.75 (ties PR)
The traditional Smokey Mountain Twilight meet was a very low key event that allowed us to have a small competition prior to our upcoming SEC championships while sleeping in our own beds. Joe Berry won his fourth meet of his young career while clearing 5.05. He then passed to 5.22m. Just after jumping a long jump PR, decathlete Michael Ayers tied his outdoor PR with 4.90. Redshirt Michael Seaman tied his recent PR, also clearing 4.90m.
1 Joseph Berry 5.05m 16-06.75
2 Brad Holtz 4.90m 16-00.75
3 Michael Ayers 4.90m 16-00.75 (ties PR)
3 Michael Seaman 4.90m 16-00.75 (ties PR)
The traditional Smokey Mountain Twilight meet was a very low key event that allowed us to have a small competition prior to our upcoming SEC championships while sleeping in our own beds. Joe Berry won his fourth meet of his young career while clearing 5.05. He then passed to 5.22m. Just after jumping a long jump PR, decathlete Michael Ayers tied his outdoor PR with 4.90. Redshirt Michael Seaman tied his recent PR, also clearing 4.90m.
DRAKE RELAYS
Drake University - College Division
1. Joe Berry, 5.05m (16' 6")
Brad Holtz NH
Joe and Brad competed in the college division of the Drake Relays which included a quality field. Joe Berry emerged victorious once again, winning his third meet of the last four. He has been the picture of consistency in his training and competitive nature, regardless of the conditions. Of the six outdoor meets this year, rain has been a factor four times. Conditions at Drake were in the low 40's, with light rain and gusty 30 mph winds that apparently swirled all day. Unfortunately, Brad and half the field did not clear a bar. We will train for the Smoky Mountain meet in Knoxville and hope to have a healthy Michael Hogue back for competition. We are looking for Hogue, Holtz, Berry and Ayers to all contribute points in the pole vault at the SEC's which loom in a few weeks.
VANDERBILT INVITATIONAL
NASHVILLE, TN
1. Joe Berry: 5.21m (17' 1"), PR, Meet Record, Facility Record
3. Brad Holtz: 4.95m (16' 2.5")
9. Michael Seaman: 4.60m (15' 1").
We made the trip to Vandy on Friday, taking 3 vaulters. Conditions were pretty good but rain clouds threatened in the distance. Joe Berry took advantage of the day and vaulted to a new PR of 17'1. En route, he broke the meet record which was set by Michael Hogue last year. Berry then had two good attempts at 5.30, coming up a little short on depth as the rain began to fall. Bradley Holtz had some nice jumps at the earlier bars and is showing more consistency as the outdoor season progresses. The guys will travel to the Drake Relays next week to get a taste of the NCAA host facility.
1. Joe Berry: 5.21m (17' 1"), PR, Meet Record, Facility Record
3. Brad Holtz: 4.95m (16' 2.5")
9. Michael Seaman: 4.60m (15' 1").
We made the trip to Vandy on Friday, taking 3 vaulters. Conditions were pretty good but rain clouds threatened in the distance. Joe Berry took advantage of the day and vaulted to a new PR of 17'1. En route, he broke the meet record which was set by Michael Hogue last year. Berry then had two good attempts at 5.30, coming up a little short on depth as the rain began to fall. Bradley Holtz had some nice jumps at the earlier bars and is showing more consistency as the outdoor season progresses. The guys will travel to the Drake Relays next week to get a taste of the NCAA host facility.
SEA RAY RELAYS
Invitational Section...........
6. Joe Berry: 5.05, 16' 6"
6. Bradley Holtz: 5.05, 16' 6"
Michael Hogue: DNS
Joe and Brad had nice meets, clearing 16' 6" on their first attempts with plenty to spare. They tied for 4th among collegians. The winds were howling at Tom Black track today giving the vaulters a very nice tailwind. Beautiful conditions allowed for some fine vaulting throughout the field. Both had a couple of good attempts at 17 feet but really needed bigger poles. That is a good sign. Although neither managed to clear new PR's, both made strides toward peaking at the SEC championships in 4 weeks. Hogue did not compete today but will prepare to get healthy and finish the season strong.
6. Joe Berry: 5.05, 16' 6"
6. Bradley Holtz: 5.05, 16' 6"
Michael Hogue: DNS
Joe and Brad had nice meets, clearing 16' 6" on their first attempts with plenty to spare. They tied for 4th among collegians. The winds were howling at Tom Black track today giving the vaulters a very nice tailwind. Beautiful conditions allowed for some fine vaulting throughout the field. Both had a couple of good attempts at 17 feet but really needed bigger poles. That is a good sign. Although neither managed to clear new PR's, both made strides toward peaking at the SEC championships in 4 weeks. Hogue did not compete today but will prepare to get healthy and finish the season strong.
SEA RAY RELAYS - Men's Open Vault
Michael Seaman: 4.90m, 16' 0.5" (PR)
Mikey made good use of the time he had before the storms blew in as he vaulted consistently and efficiently. He opened at 15' 7", clearing big on his 2nd attempt. He then made a comfortable clearance at 16' on his first attempt. It makes for a new PR and his first 16' vault. Places were not calculated because the meet was postponed before the vault was complete.
SEA RAY RELAYS - Decathlon
Decathlon pole vault1. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 15-7
6. Jangy Addy, Tenn. 14-3 1/4
Decathlon
1. Jangy Addy, Tenn. 7,595**
3. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 7,227*
1. Jangy Addy, Tenn. 7,595**
3. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 7,227*
Jangy and Michael did there first decathlons of the year and achieved national qualifiers. Jangy achieved his first outdoor 14 footer with a 14' 3" on his first try. He then took one attempt at 14' 7" and called it a day. Michael Ayers cleared 15' 7" to to win the decathlon vault en route to a decathlon PR.
picture from utsports.com
Berry Named SEC Freshman of the Week
Tennessee pole vaulter Joseph Berry has been named SEC Male Freshman of the Week by the SEC, the conference office announced Tuesday.Berry won the pole vault and tied the facility record at the Tiger Track Classic in Auburn, Ala., last weekend. The Horsham, Pa., native cleared a regional-qualifying and season-best height of 16-6 3/4 to match Auburn’s Mark Johnson for the highest clearance ever at Hutsell-Rosen Track, which will host the SEC?Outdoor Championships in May. Berry’s clearance is currently tied for third in the SEC this season and is tied for the top freshman mark in the conference.
Berry and the rest of the third-ranked Vols compete in front of the home crowd this weekend at the 42nd Sea Ray Relays.
2008 Tiger Classic
Auburn University
1. Joseph Berry: 16' 6" (5.05m)
2. Bradley Holtz: 16' 0" (4.90m)
Michael Seaman: NH (unattached)
Joe and Brad managed a strong 1-2 finish despite the fact that weather once again put a damper on the effort of the vaulting Vols. The guys traveled to Auburn University for a preview of the SEC host site on Saturday. Stormy weather across the southeast forced the guys to deal with a long rain delay followed by competition into intermittent rain and headwinds. Freshman Joe Berry achieved a regional qualifier while winning his first collegiate meet. Michael Hogue remained in Knoxville in preparation for the Sea Ray relays next weekend. Hopefully Knoxville will provide some much needed sunny skies and smoking tail winds as the guys try to crank up to some 5.20+ vaulting !
Georgia Tech Invitational
Rain, rain, go away...........
1. Michael Hogue, Tenn. 16-6 3/4*
2. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 16-0 3/4
2. Joseph Berry, Tenn. 16-0 3/4
Brad Holtz, Tenn. No Height
We traveled to Atlanta for the Yellow Jacket invitational and weather conditions were a concern as I was afraid of. Conditions were not bad during warm-ups other than some swirling winds. As the meet progressed it began to drizzle some rain and thunder was moving in. Michael Ayers achieved his first outdoor 16 footer ever and continues to show improvement. While the guys were jumping at 16' 6", the meet meet director called the horn due to lightning and everyone was sent into the basketball arena for cover. After 1.5 hours of waiting, the meet was resumed with a 20 minute warm-up. Now into a steady headwind, Ayers and Berry had 1 attempt at 16' 6" and Hogue had two remaining. Hogue was the only vaulter of 5 to clear the bar after the delay, earning a regional qualifying mark. All and all, I was proud with how the guys handled such difficult conditions. I believe that this experience will make us mentally tougher for upcoming meets.
1. Michael Hogue, Tenn. 16-6 3/4*
2. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 16-0 3/4
2. Joseph Berry, Tenn. 16-0 3/4
Brad Holtz, Tenn. No Height
We traveled to Atlanta for the Yellow Jacket invitational and weather conditions were a concern as I was afraid of. Conditions were not bad during warm-ups other than some swirling winds. As the meet progressed it began to drizzle some rain and thunder was moving in. Michael Ayers achieved his first outdoor 16 footer ever and continues to show improvement. While the guys were jumping at 16' 6", the meet meet director called the horn due to lightning and everyone was sent into the basketball arena for cover. After 1.5 hours of waiting, the meet was resumed with a 20 minute warm-up. Now into a steady headwind, Ayers and Berry had 1 attempt at 16' 6" and Hogue had two remaining. Hogue was the only vaulter of 5 to clear the bar after the delay, earning a regional qualifying mark. All and all, I was proud with how the guys handled such difficult conditions. I believe that this experience will make us mentally tougher for upcoming meets.
Freshmen Vaulter and Decathlete claim Freshman All-SEC Honors
From utsports.com:
Three members of the Tennessee men’s track and field team were named to the inaugural SEC All-Freshman Indoor Track and Field team, the conference announced Wednesday.
Joseph Berry led the Tennessee contingent with his second-place finish in the pole vault at the SEC Indoor Championships. The Horsham, Pa., native cleared a personal-best height of 16-10 3/4 and finished behind teammate and four-time SEC champion Michael Hogue to give the Vols a clean sweep of the top-two positions.
Michael Ayers finished third in the heptathlon, behind victorious teammate Jangy Addy, with a personal-best score of 5,286 points to help the Vols claim two of the top-three finishes. Ayers, a Nashville native, moved to 10th on Tennessee’s all-time performance list in the event and earned a personal-best mark in five of the seven events contested.
Three members of the Tennessee men’s track and field team were named to the inaugural SEC All-Freshman Indoor Track and Field team, the conference announced Wednesday.
Joseph Berry led the Tennessee contingent with his second-place finish in the pole vault at the SEC Indoor Championships. The Horsham, Pa., native cleared a personal-best height of 16-10 3/4 and finished behind teammate and four-time SEC champion Michael Hogue to give the Vols a clean sweep of the top-two positions.
Michael Ayers finished third in the heptathlon, behind victorious teammate Jangy Addy, with a personal-best score of 5,286 points to help the Vols claim two of the top-three finishes. Ayers, a Nashville native, moved to 10th on Tennessee’s all-time performance list in the event and earned a personal-best mark in five of the seven events contested.
Baldy Castillo: Spring Break @ Arizona State
Arizona State, Tempe Arizona Brad Holtz: 5.15m (16' 10.5")
Michael Hogue: 4.80 (15' 9")
As the guys make the transition to the outdoor season, they traveled to Arizona State for spring break. The week was focussed on training but some of the guys vaulted at ASU. Bradley Holtz put together a strong opener clearing an outdoor PR and tying his lifetime best, clearing 5.15 meters. This is easily a regional qualifying mark. He also competed in several other events that day including the 100m and javelin. Hogue struggled a bit from short run but will build momentum after a strong indoor campaign. We will resume competition next week at the Georgia Tech meet so hope for good weather as early spring is always a little shaky.
NCAA INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008
RESULTS:
PV: Michael Hogue: 6th place, 5.30m (17' 4.5"); All-American
Heptathlon: Jangy Addy: 14' 7" (4.45m). DOUBLE PR IN POLE VAULT
Just like every year we traveled again to the University of Arkansas. Michael Hogue entered the meet ranked in a tie 
for 14th place. The field was very bunched up between 17'6" to 18' on the list. We knew going in that it would come down to first attempt clearances. Mike did just that by smoking 5.30 (17' 4.5") on his 1st jump. He then blew through on his first jump at 5.40m. He went up a pole for his 2nd attempt and blew through again. We then raised his grip and move the standards back and he blew through again. Although he felt as though he should have cleared 5.40, it was a good day all and all. His 3rd straight all-american certificate and 3rd consecutive meet scoring points at nationals. He will focus on some base training and technical work as we transition to the outdoor season.
for 14th place. The field was very bunched up between 17'6" to 18' on the list. We knew going in that it would come down to first attempt clearances. Mike did just that by smoking 5.30 (17' 4.5") on his 1st jump. He then blew through on his first jump at 5.40m. He went up a pole for his 2nd attempt and blew through again. We then raised his grip and move the standards back and he blew through again. Although he felt as though he should have cleared 5.40, it was a good day all and all. His 3rd straight all-american certificate and 3rd consecutive meet scoring points at nationals. He will focus on some base training and technical work as we transition to the outdoor season. Heptathlete Jangy Addy had a nice day in the hep vault. His prior PR was 14' 2" and he cleared 14'3". After that he got the crowd pumped with the clap and snaked over 14' 7" on his 3rd attempt. He has made steady progress in his pole vaulting which used to be his weakest and most nerve racking event. His hard work has paid off.
LAST CHANCE INDOOR MEET
Virginia Tech University: Joe Berry: 17 feet, (5.18m)
Ayers: 15' 1"
Hogue: NH
Holtz: NH
Making our 3rd trip down to Tech for a last chance meet. Michael Hogue thought he might need a few more cm to secure his NCAA berth. The other guys just wanted to jump for various reasons. True freshman Joe Berry was the story of the meet for us. He PR'd for the second week in a row clearing 17 feet for the first time in his life. He cleared it quite easily which is a good sign for the rest of the season. I think he even surprised himself a little bit. Then the bar went to 17'5" and Joe had one really nice attempt on his 2nd try. If the standards had been at 50cm, it would have stayed up there. That would have gotten him to the NCAA meet as a freshman. Michael and Brad had off days although
16 foot poles for the first time and looked pretty good on them. Michael Ayers had a tall task with the bar going from 15 to 16 feet right away. He is making a few major technical changes which should lead to consistency at 5m and higher.
SEC INDOOR CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008
University of Arkansas
Pole vault
1 .Michael Hogue, Tenn.17-6 1/4* SB
2. Joseph Berry, Tenn.16-10 3/4 PR
6-t. Brad Holtz, Tenn.16-4 3/4
14. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 15-11
Hogue posted a season best and NCAA qualifier and won his 4th SEC title. He performed well and upheld his role as a team captain. He secured his 3rd consecutive SEC indoor title and his 4th overall. Freshman Joe Berry stepped up his game at the right time with a first attempt clearance at 5.15m to take 8 huge second place points. Bradley Holtz finished in a tie for 6th place and looks to be ready for some big jumps outdoors. Freshman decathlete Michael Ayers posted a 15'11 on tired legs in the open vault the day after finishing the hepthathlon. The day before he posted 2 huge PR's in the heptathlon vault, jumping 16' 2 (4.94m). Jangy Addy also had a PR in the pole vault, clearing 14' 2" during the heptathlon. He went on win the SEC title. Just before the hep vault, he tied the world record in the heptathlon hurdles. That is crazy.
Pole vault
1 .Michael Hogue, Tenn.17-6 1/4* SB
2. Joseph Berry, Tenn.16-10 3/4 PR
6-t. Brad Holtz, Tenn.16-4 3/4
14. Michael Ayers, Tenn. 15-11
Hogue posted a season best and NCAA qualifier and won his 4th SEC title. He performed well and upheld his role as a team captain. He secured his 3rd consecutive SEC indoor title and his 4th overall. Freshman Joe Berry stepped up his game at the right time with a first attempt clearance at 5.15m to take 8 huge second place points. Bradley Holtz finished in a tie for 6th place and looks to be ready for some big jumps outdoors. Freshman decathlete Michael Ayers posted a 15'11 on tired legs in the open vault the day after finishing the hepthathlon. The day before he posted 2 huge PR's in the heptathlon vault, jumping 16' 2 (4.94m). Jangy Addy also had a PR in the pole vault, clearing 14' 2" during the heptathlon. He went on win the SEC title. Just before the hep vault, he tied the world record in the heptathlon hurdles. That is crazy.
Welcome to the Tennessee vault blog
Welcome to my little pole vault blog. I thought I would start this blog for anyone interested in following along with the Tennessee vaulters as they go along. I wish I had started this much sooner as the guys have had great success over the last 3 years. I will try to update regularly and provide links to results as appropriate. The indoor season has just ended and we are preparing for the outdoor season. I am looking forward to another great outdoor run.
Old School: LoJo 5.70m, 1995 NCAA champion
This old school jump represents all that is great about Tennessee pole vaulting. 18' 8" into a headwind to win the 1995 NCAA championships. This was held at Tom Black track on UT campus. Lawrence had been hurt that year and was just coming off the injury for a seasonal best.
Mack - Olympic Record
Former Vol Timothy Mack sets a new Olympic Record of 19' 6" at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. While at UT, Tim was an NCAA Champion, SEC Champion, and All-American. Tim vaulted 13' 6" in high school !
The Day Bubka Vaulted the Highest
Watch the day unfold at the "Bubka Meet" in Donetsk, Ukraine in 1993. The day Bubka vaulted the highest vault in history, 20' 2". This video gives me chills because you see the slow build up and anticipation leading to a third attempt world record clearance. Too bad the producer of this used "The Ecstacy of Gold" song by Ennio Morricone. I was thinking of using that on an upcoming video. Big thanks to the guy who posted this though.
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