Don's Pole Vault Academy
Professional Training for Poor Athletes in Pole Vault Event
Turning Rural Talent Into National Champions
Don's Pole Vault Academy was founded in 2005 by Chief Coach Don Wilcox, inspired by his son Gerard Mark Wilcox winning a Silver Medal at the 2005 Deaf Olympics in Melbourne, Australia.
Operating from Nehru Stadium, Chennai, the Academy identifies talented rural school athletes and provides them with world-class pole vault coaching — completely free of cost. We cover accommodation, education support, and supply poles through the generous support of sponsors.
Read Our Full Story →
"Every Child Deserves to Fly — Regardless of Background"
We believe that poverty should never stand between a talented young athlete and their dream of competing on the national stage. Don's Pole Vault Academy breaks that barrier every single day.
What Sets Us Apart
Expert Coaching
Guided by Chief Coach Don Wilcox — a former national-level athlete with over 25 years of coaching experience in pole vault.
100% Free Training
No fees. No hidden costs. Athletes receive free coaching, accommodation at Nehru Stadium, and education support — all provided at zero cost.
Altitude Camp Training
Annual 15km trekking camp in Ooty builds cardiovascular endurance and mental toughness for upcoming competitions.
Proven Results
Our athletes compete at national level. S. Siva — hearing & speech impaired — won at the National Open Athletics Championship, Warangal.
Rural Outreach
We actively scout talent from rural schools across Tamil Nadu, giving underprivileged children a pathway to professional sports careers.
Sponsor-Supported
Poles, equipment, and camp expenses are covered by sponsors and donors — ensuring no financial burden on the athletes or their families.
Our Champions
Athletes who have made Don's Pole Vault Academy proud on the national and international stage.
Gerard Mark Wilcox
📍 Melbourne, Australia — Deaf Olympics 2005
Silver Medal — Pole Vault
InternationalS. Siva
📍 Warangal — National Open Athletics Championship
Winner — Pole Vault (Hearing & Speech Impaired)
National ChampionReady to Join the Academy?
Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a sponsor, or a well-wisher — we'd love to hear from you.