The “Thwack!” of a springing pole reverberates throughout the field as the shadows lengthen on the line of pole vaulters waiting to launch themselves over the bar. Their coach, Mr. Chris Branson, offers advice on topics ranging from form to friendships as he watches his team practice.
Every day, Temple City vaulters practice their intricate craft and hone skills that will carry them to victory, something that Temple City’s pole vaulters have seen a great deal of. Since its inception, the Girls Pole Vaulting team has never lost the Rio Hondo League Championships and the boys have been undefeated for 17 years. In 2000, Temple City’s only State Champion vaulted her way to victory.
Although he is a P.E. teacher at Oak Avenue Intermediate School, Branson bikes over to the high school every day to coach the team. His dedication seems to set an example for the other athletes.
“He’s been really positive,” Senior Leondra Graves said. “Pole vaulting is like a family at this school.”
This family attitude draws many former vaulters back. It is not uncommon to see alumni at events like the annual Temple City Iron Kids Triathlon. Even everyday practice sees its share of former vaulters returning.
Coach Branson’s humble attitude hides a fierce dedication to his pole vaulters. With a limited budget for Track and Field, Coach Branson goes the extra mile to make sure track athletes have the equipment that is needed. Almost every pole used by the vaulters was purchased by Coach Branson. His philosophy is that athletes should be able to compete to the best of their ability, and inadequate equipment shouldn’t be an obstacle.
“I never want it to be something like, ‘I can’t afford it’,” Coach Branson said. “It’s just my way of giving back.”
His efforts aren’t limited to providing equipment. Where Coach Branson truly shines is in his ability to inspire athletes. His style of coaching is based on athletic self-empowerment.
Coach Branson’s methods acknowledge that any successful athlete must have a true passion for his or her sport. Coach Branson will help his athletes on the way, but only a self-motivated athlete can be coached and be successful.
“He’s never given up on me,” Junior Vivian Yu said. “He drove me [to C.I.F.], both literally and figuratively.”