Lilia Montiel '23 Recruiting Profile

Being a collegiate athlete has been an aspiration of mine since I began my athletic career. Prior to pole vaulting, I played volleyball for my high school, and at the competitive club level. I served as the captain for each of my teams, and as a leader, I made it my goal to be the best teammate I could and make it a great experience for each member. Once I began pole vault, I knew this was the sport I wanted to continue through my college years. I have loved every minute of high school competition and I will do anything to better my skills as an athlete and person. In addition to training in the off season with a club team, I train with a strength coach twice a week, train in gymnastics once a week, and put in numerous hours every week to better my skills as an athlete. I am willing to work hard to reach my full potential athletically and as a person. From when I was little, I have felt the urge to help others. At the age of 13, I started a not-for-profit organization called ZZZs 4 Kidz. All the money we raise goes to buying beds for kids who do not have one to sleep in. Through ongoing fundraisers, I feel so fortunate to have gained the support from my community, and others outside my community. ZZZs 4 Kidz has been recognized by numerous different organizations and I have made it my goal to help as many children as possible. My academic aspirations include maintaining a 4.0 GPA and studying to become a large animal veterinarian.