Bloom-Carroll's Dominic Knapp Soars to Victory in State Pole Vault

COLUMBUS — In a remarkable turnaround from last year, Dominic Knapp of Bloom-Carroll has clinched the title of OHSAA Division III boys pole vault state champion. Just a year ago, Knapp found himself unable to progress past the district track meet, but on June 5, he achieved greatness at Ohio State's Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.

"This is my first time to make it to regionals or state," Knapp expressed joyfully after securing the championship. "It's insane. If you would have told me last year, I wouldn't have believed you. It's awesome to see how much I've grown with my father and my coaches and Austin (Hicks) at Buckeye Pole Vaulting Academy. It's been awesome."

Knapp cleared a height of 15 feet, 10 inches, edging out Perry's Traxton Richards, who could not match that mark. Knapp secured his winning jump on his second attempt. "It's kind of a blur. Getting here has been awesome," he reflected.

Last season, Knapp set a personal record of 14 feet, demonstrating promise as a sophomore, but through dedicated training over the past year at Buckeye Pole Vaulting Academy in Sunbury, he has transformed into a top competitor. He showcased his skills by winning the D-III district title at Hilliard Darby with a jump-off victory against Highland's Jett Black and later claimed the Muskingum regional with a vault of 15 feet.

Knapp emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset in the sport. "I try not to think too highly because winds can change and there are a lot of variables in pole vaulting," he noted. He added, "I would say you never want to come in with a super winning mentality or too overconfident. I come in knowing I've been super consistent at the heights. I knew I had what it takes to get the job done a little better than normal."

His consistency was key during the competition, as he missed only two vaults throughout the day before attempting to clear 16 feet, 1 inch. "In those big meets at district and regionals, it's survive and advance, but state, that's where you care about the attempts," Knapp explained. "They mean more, so being super consistent at those heights over 14-6 and 15 feet and getting that first attempt is important."