Come and discover the thrill of pole vaulting! Our training program starts with essential grass drills that establish a strong foundation for a successful and safe vaulting experience. These drills are designed to enhance your running technique, which is crucial for generating the speed and momentum needed for effective pole vaulting.
Under the expert guidance of Coach Mike Fitchett, you'll receive personalized feedback in a dynamic and supportive environment that encourages growth and fosters fun. We utilize bungees on the pole vault pit, enabling vaulters to clear new heights safely and efficiently. Plus, you'll have exciting opportunities to showcase your skills at local summer track and field meets, providing an added incentive to refine your abilities. Join us and take your pole vaulting to new heights!
Our speed training program at our Beginning Pole Vault Clinics focuses on enhancing your acceleration and overall speed, which are crucial elements for successful pole vaulting. We employ specialized drills and techniques to improve sprinting mechanics, explosiveness, and agility to maximize your performance on the runway.
Building strength is a vital component of pole vaulting, and at Beginning Vaulter Clinics, we design workouts that focus on building core strength, upper body power, and leg drive, essential for successful vaulting. Utilizing a variety of equipment and techniques, we ensure your training is well-rounded and effective.
Beginning Pole Vault Clinics are organized through the San Dieguito Academy Foundation, which helps fund the Track and Field program at San Dieguito Academy. The foundation provides us with the excellent facilities and organizes all the sign-ups, payments, and clinic rosters.
Beginning Pole Vault Clinics are open to students in seventh grade through high school.
Partial scholarships are available based on financial need. Contact coach Mike Fitchett (760) 685-8840
Week 4 July 13 - July 17
Week 5 July 20 - July 24
Week 6 July 27 - Aug 31
Rates:
Weekly Sessions : $140
3-week Session: $350
Full Summer Session: $650
Partial scholarships are available based on financial need. Contact Mike Fitchett.(760) 685-8840
Week 4 July 14 - July 18
Week 5 July 21 - July 25
Week 6 July 28 - Aug 1
Rates:
1-Week Session: $140
3-week Session: $350
Full Summer Session: $650
Partial scholarships are available based on financial need. Contact Mike Fitchett.(760) 685-8840
This is Coach Fitchett’s 12th year as San Dieguito’s pole vault coach. He got his start in coaching at U.C. Davis, where he was the springboard diving coach. He went on to coach Clemson University, U.C. San Diego, and University of San Diego. Over the years, Mike has produced 14 NCAA College All-Americans and 9 NCAA Championship finalists. He has also been awarded 3 NCAA “Coach of the Year” awards.
Certifications include:
• United States Track & Field Level I and Level II Coach certification. (combined events)
• SafeSport Certification (2026-27)
• PVSCB Pole Vault Safety Certification Board Certified (2026-27)
In 12 years coaching at San Dieguito, his pole vaulters have enjoyed much success. Mike has produced 27 CIF finalists, two San Diego CIF Champions (Dylan Yarbrough and Kevin Ward) and four California State CIF top 8 finalists. Mike has also coached the Speed and Strength Program at SDA.
June 17 Cuyamaca College
June 17 Chula Vista Elite Athletic Training Center (SD Open Championships)
July 8 Canyon Crest Academy
July 18 U.C. San Diego (Cal State Games)
July 29 Monte Vista High School
