In August 2024, my nephew moved from Utah to live with me while starting college and getting on the Track team so he could pursue his passion of Pole Vaulting.
He had a rough track season, starting with crazy head coaching changes to start with, 1/2 of the team quitting, and finding a balance of college classes he was interested in. Not to mention being away from his family, friends and girlfriend.
Regardless though, I tried to show support, and was overwhelmed when he asked me to come to his final dinner with all of the college athletes at his school. It was a very emotional evening, culminating in his team winning “Male Team of the Year”. I was so impressed with all of these young men and women. It actually gave me hope for the future.
Cbug’s parents and friends flew down for his final few days here. We ended up golfing, swimming, and enjoying Old Town Scottsdale. His Regional Track meet was his last chance to qualify, and he came so close, hitting the height needed to qualify, but he just barely hit the bar, so he was ineligible.
It was a combination of stress over completing his finals, which included a public speaking forum that he was nervous about. Regardless, I was so proud of him and the growth he has made personally over this last year. It was bittersweet as I gave him a final hug before he and his Mom made the long drive back to Utah. He can now spend the summer with his girlfriend and family before pursuing his career as a Pilot by continuing his education up in Utah. Pole Vaulting may not have given him the medals and accolades he wanted, but it definitely helped him grow into a fine young adult.
