Rains was named the USTFCCCA 2008 Division II Women's Athlete of the Year (Kirby Lee)

When it rains, it pours. Named USTFCCCA 2008 Division II National Women’s Indoor Athlete of the Year, Minnesota State University - Mankato junior Katelin Rains set another Division II national indoor championships vault record of 4.31 meters, surpassing her Division I counterparts, by one centimeter. She shares her inspiration and goals for the spring season.

1. As a repeat women’s national champion, and in your third trip to the indoor nationals, this time at home in Myers Field House at Minnesota State University – Mankato, what were your emotions going into the women’s pole vault?

It was such an honor to host the meet at our school for the first time. I was really happy to be competing in front of everyone, my family and friends. I came into the competition a lot more confident, even as defending national champion.

2. If any difference, what did you take away from this championship that you might not have in 2007 or 2006?

I was a little apprehensive last season indoors, competing in Boston at the Reggie Lewis Center.

3. Breaking your own championship record (4.27 meters), set in 2007 after breaking your predecessor Amanda Frame’s, also of Minnesota State University at 4.00 meters, what was motivating you in your third attempt at 4.31 meters?

I wanted to hit higher than 14’. We knew that the division one vaulters would be coming in around 4.30, and we deliberately set the bar height at 4.31 meters. In a way, we wanted to show that we can compete at a high level with division one.

4. As a student, what are the bigger challenges you overcome balancing athletic life as a pole vaulter/triple jumper?

It’s a hectic schedule! Time management is the biggest challenge. Sometimes, the scenario is that I wake up early for class at 8:00am to 1 or 2pm, then attend practice from 2pm to 6pm. If I have a night class, I try to crunch in a meal. It’s tough training at a high elite level, and to juggle the rest.

5. What major have you decided upon, and what are you going to do after college with your studies?

I’m majoring in elementary education. My focus is on language and reading. So, I have to read a couple books every week. I’m taking a lot of children’s literature courses right now.

6. What have been key process goals for you in the triple jump and pole vault?

I’m just starting to learn how technical of an event the triple jump is, and I do it to help the team win points (competed in event in high school). In the pole vault, being more consistent in my approach – faster on the runway and staying tighter to the pole and dropping my head back. I’m learning to wait, and be patient using my 14’ 7”pole.

7. What are you doing for fun off of the track and field?

My family has a timeshare in Florida. So, whenever I can sneak away I really enjoy hanging out on the beach.

8. Who are the people motivating you the most as a student-athlete?

Definitely, my pole vault coach Matt Kolb and coach Blue. Kolb calls me like everyday and is my biggest enthusiast and supporter. He’ll call me and say, ‘Hey, I was watching some video and wanted to have you try this.’ He has so much passion. That really inspires to me to get out there and do well.

9. How did it feel to have your teammate freshman Lauren Stelten and you go 1-2 in the women’s pole vault (followed by Whitney Kroschel in 11th place)?

That was unbelievable. I was so thrilled for Lauren. She’s new. We are so lucky to have a talent like hers on our team. She’s got so much raw talent. When she cleared her 12’ 9.5”, I went over to congratulate her. We have a very passionate team.

10. How are you celebrating your victory?

That was a good day, but I’m never satisfied when it comes to the vault. I am definitely focused on the outdoor track and field season now, and looking to jump higher. The work that I’ve done is helping to prepare me for the bigger meets, like Drake Relays and the Olympic Trials.

11. In what ways, has the track and field program at Minnesota State University aided your success as a student-athlete?

We have great coaches in our program, that have always keep us inspired. We come to practice and always get stuff done. When I first came to Minnesota, they asked me what I wanted to do. I told them that I wanted to be a national champion and they said, Okay, it’s time to work. I have spent almost all of my time on the runway and in the weight room. It’s hard work.

12. But, the hard work pays off! What do you hope you can accomplish ultimately?

I’m always looking to go higher. I want to jump 14’ 8” and eventually clear 15’. I plan to vault for as long as my body will let me.