Dominic "Sonny" Boddie '19 Recruiting Profile

I started pole vaulting in my freshman year of high school.  Honestly, I stumbled into the sport when I realized I wasn't a fan of running long distance and I wasn't fast enough to make a difference as a sprinter.  My coach suggested pole vaulting because of my "long, lean build".  I think he was just trying to fill a spot since there was only one pole vaulter on the team, and he was a senior.  It was the best advice I ever received because I fell in love with the sport.

What I’ve learned over the past 3 seasons is that hard work works. There are many competitors that are more gifted athletically than me. But the equalizers are my work ethic, commitment, and that I am highly coachable. I take a disciplined approach to training and nutrition. I spend countless hours in the weight room, countless hours on the track, and pay close attention to how I eat in an effort to maximize the talents I’ve been blessed with.  This approach, along with some terrific coaching, has paid off.  I showed consistent improvement each season, starting with not making it to the state meet as a freshman, to an 8th place finish as a sophomore, and a 2nd place finish as a junior.  Because I'm new to the sport, I believe I have a higher ceiling than most, and with the right coaching, guidance, and mentorship I can put up big numbers in this event.

My goal is to identify a school where I can get strong coaching that will enable me to continue to improve as an athlete, but also a school where I can pursue my academic goals.  I understand that competing in athletics may open doors for me educationally, but ultimately, preparing for life after college is what is most important.  A lot of my friends know exactly what they want to do for a career.  I don't, and I think that's ok.  I am looking to obtain a broad and well rounded education, find a passion, and use the entire experience to build a successful life.