When should a pole vault pit be replaced?

Most coaches immediately think about age. But age alone doesn't tell the whole story.

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the real factors that determine when a pole vault landing system should be repaired, replaced, or removed from service. From foam degradation and water intrusion to compliance concerns and liability risks, this episode provides practical guidance for coaches, athletic directors, and facility managers responsible for athlete safety.

You'll learn:

✅ Why pit age is often the wrong metric

✅ Common warning signs that indicate replacement may be needed

✅ How foam, vinyl, and hardware condition affect safety

✅ The role water intrusion plays in shortening pit life

✅ When repairs may be appropriate and when replacement becomes necessary

✅ How NFHS and NCAA compliance can impact replacement decisions

✅ Why regular inspections are critical

✅ How coaches can successfully advocate for replacement funding

One of the biggest mistakes programs make is waiting until a pit becomes an emergency. The best replacement projects start years before the purchase through planning, budgeting, inspections, and communication.

If you're responsible for a pole vault facility, this conversation can help you make better decisions, reduce risk, and provide a safer environment for athletes.

The goal isn't compliance. The goal is safety.

A pole vault pit should be replaced when it can no longer safely perform its intended function. That decision should be driven by condition, performance, and athlete safety, not simply the age of the landing system.

LINKEDIN ARTICLE

📲 Stay Connected:
Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Instagram (@MikeCunninghamTF), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍

How long does a pole vault pit actually last?

It's one of the most common questions coaches ask, but the answer isn't as simple as 10 years, 15 years, or 20 years.

In this episode of the Gill Connections Podcast, Mike Cunningham breaks down the factors that truly determine the lifespan of a pole vault pit and explains why age alone is often the wrong metric.

You'll learn:

✅ Why indoor pits often last longer than outdoor pits

✅ How sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes impact pit life

✅ The critical role weather covers and pit garages play

✅ How usage volume affects foam, vinyl, and hardware

✅ The difference between pit age and pit condition

✅ What a pole vault pit warranty actually covers

✅ Practical steps coaches can take to extend pit lifespan

✅ Common warning signs that indicate repairs or replacement may be needed

Throughout the discussion, Mike shares real-world examples from facility visits across the country, including pits that remained serviceable after 20+ years and others that required replacement much sooner due to environmental exposure, water intrusion, and maintenance issues.

Whether you're evaluating your current pit, planning future budgets, or simply trying to protect one of the largest investments in your pole vault program, this episode provides practical guidance to help maximize safety and extend the life of your landing system.

📖 Read the full article: How Long Does a Pole Vault Pit Last?

📲 Stay Connected:
Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Instagram (@MikeCunninghamTF), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍

Sydnee started at a small high school in GA competing in the shot put and discus. She shares the steps on her path to becoming a 4-time Junior Olympic national hammer throw champion, 2-time HS All-American, and then a top-10 all-time performer in the hammer and weight throw for the University of Oregon. She also offers suggestions to current youth athletes, parents, and coaches on how to forge their own path. Sydnee is the founder and CE[http:]O of The Collaborative LLC and also works as a Social Media & Marketing Professional.

Note: This episode was originally published 2/3/26.If you've got something awesome like this that you'd like to share, please contact David Mitchell to learn how!