When the pole vaulters on the Revere High School men’s track and field team, including its only returning vaulter, third-year vaulter Cameron Crockett, perform their event, they see in the bar a definite representation of their goals and fears, which they can literally rise over through determination and practice. The sport satisfies the athletes’ desire to conquer their fears, and the adrenaline rush of the sport provides a pleasing thrill for the participants.

The sport’s oddity attracts many of the athletes, whom current coach Jade Rotili and former coach David Parry have instructed. The athletes typically begin training immediately and dedicate the majority of a season to the pursuit. Last season, Crockett advanced farthest into the post-season.

Rotili also admires the sport and the perseverance it requires.

“[Pole vaulting] is so dynamic and complex. It is not something that can be picked up quickly. It takes athletes years to truly master this sport, I guess that is why I like it. [It is] something that takes a lot of commitment and effort,” Rotili said.

The sport and the heights involved with it intimidate some, but pole vaulters such as Crockett immediately start training and eventually gain comfort with the sport.

“We started [jumping] right away, [but] it took a while to build up the confidence,” Crockett said.

Former pole vaulter Joe Hathaway’s experience mirrored that of Crockett.

“I was nervous my first time vaulting, but after my first jump I knew it was something I wanted to pursue,” Hathaway said.

As a coach, Rotili understands many of the athletes’ reservations.

“First we start off with basic hand drills, then [we] slowly work our way to the pit. Vaulting can be dangerous compared to other track events. I want to make sure that the athletes feel comfortable with each step of the learning process before starting to attempt any jumps,” Rotili said.

The coaching staff looks to Crockett as a source of guidance for any incoming pole vaulters.

“[Crockett] has the knowledge and skills to be a great leader for our underclassmen,” Rotili said.

Last year, only Crockett advanced to the District and Suburban League Championships, but the team as a whole, with the addition of newer members, looks forward to the coming season. The team holds optimistic views about the upcoming season, during which they can compete against others who have devoted similar amounts of time to the event. Both the men’s and women’s Revere track and field teams traveled to Copley on April 4 for their first meets of the season.