BIG 12 CHAMPIONSHIP AT AT&T STADIUM

A Pro Athlete born and raised in Denton, Texas. Holding dual citizenship through her Canadian Parents. Competed with Texas State University where she was a two time Sun Belt Conference Pole Vault Champion and setting a conference record. She also competed in the Olympics not once, twice but three times. Leading into the finals but landing short from a Gold medal.

We got to Meet Anicka and had some questions to ask some questions.

First was what got you into Pole Vault?

I got thrown into it by my high school coach. He knew my gymnast background and figured it be something great for me to try and made me do it! I didn’t love it at first, It took a long time before I developed a real passion for it.

Second Question was Can you walk us through your mental process right before a big jump?

It involves a lot of positive self talk and going over all my cues in my head. That I am trying to hit. I have a lot of nervous energy and the most important thing for me is to be intentional and make my butterflies fly in formation.

Third question what’s the technical aspect of pole vaulting that most people underestimate and overlook?

People overlook EVERY aspect of Pole Vault. Pole Vault is the hardest event of track and field BECAUSE of how technical it is. You wouldn't even begin to believe how much is involved or how many factors there are that you have to account for before during and after EVERY SINGLE JUMP.

Fourth question was how do you handle pressure from high stakes competitions especially in the olympic stage?

I handle pressure by becoming my toughest persona. Gotta bring that dog in me out to play and unleash the beast because competition is no time for the timid. If you are not ready to play with the big dogs then stay on the porch.

Last question was what has been your most challenging setback in Pole Vaulting and how did you overcome it?

The most challenging setback is the MINDSET. Specifically fear, I have had to really understand how to not just handle fears but attack them head on and that has taken A LOT of years of mental Practice.

I will say when you see her she is very intimidating but once you get to know her she is the sweetest athlete with the biggest heart of all time.