Jonathan Petersen ‘21 Recruiting Profile

Personal Statement

My name is Jonathan Petersen and I am a student athlete at Olentangy Orange High School. Pole vaulting is my main sport and I love every part of it, I felt so inspired Freshman year when I took 3rd at the Conference Championships increasing my personal record to 13 feet, then I was on to the District Championships, a big step for me. Unfortunately I only cleared 11'6, which was heartbreaking to me, I thought that I was this wonder kid that could increase his personal record every meet, but I got a big slap in the face from reality, and I realized I should never think too highly of myself or others.  What has affected me as a student-athlete is the work ethic necessary to thrive in my sport, I continued to work hard after that meet and it all paid off a year later, I showed up to the Outdoor District Championships as a Sophomore and was ready for redemption. I ended up clearing 14'7 and becoming District Champion. It always felt like there is something pushing me down when I show up at meets but I overcame that feeling and now work through the tough competition. I have always had a tough mentality when it came to sports and I intend to keep that if it gets me where I need to go.