National pole vault talent Kenna Stimmel announced her commitment to Virginia Tech on Friday night.
Stimmel, one of the most accomplished pole vaulters in Ohio high school history, is the defending Division III state champion. She finished her junior year ranked at No. 7 nation wide and was one of nine competitors in the country to successfully clear 14 feet or higher.
"I liked not only the athletics of Virginia Tech, but also the campus is really beautiful," Stimmel said in a phone interview. "I know someone that goes there already and we've been friends for the past couple years. So knowing someone that already goes there and that I'll be able to jump with for three years is also a really good thing."
Stimmel, who also competes in volleyball and diving, is going to focus solely on pole vault during her college career. However, she left the door open to potentially continue sprinting, with her having previously taken first place in the 100 meter dash at the D3 State Championship this past year.
"Going into it I'm all in on pole vault, but then if they end up seeing my speed and wanting me for a sprinting event I would consider it and do what's best for the team," Stimmel said.
Virginia Tech also impressed Stimmel academically with that being an important factor in her decision to compete for the HokieBirds. Stimmel shared that she wants to study medicine with the goal of becoming a pediatric anesthesiologist.
"I've always been interested in the medical field because my mom is in the medical field," Stimmel said. "I want to try and be that positive force and try and make a kids day."
Reflecting on her High School athletic career, Stimmel said she was very happy with all that she accomplished and that she had lots of fun. Stimmel plans to compete in some indoor track with her short term goal being to defend her indoor state title.
