PHX Reporter

SCOTTSDALE (June 13, 2024) - High school student and aspiring pole vaulter Sam Novak is making waves in the track and field community with his exceptional performance, thanks to the mental skills he has honed under the guidance of Dr. Sierra Dimberg, Sport Psychologist at Banner Sports Medicine.

Sam Novak, a 17-year-old athlete, has been training rigorously to enhance his pole vaulting abilities, recently winning the Arizona title in all divisions. With Dr. Dimberg's coaching on mental skills, he has learned to center himself and focus before each jump while competing. This newfound mental fortitude has propelled Sam to achieve remarkable heights, with his current record standing at an impressive 17 feet.

"When you're about to fall from such a height, it can be daunting. But through Dr. Dimberg's teachings, I have gained the confidence to know that I can do it and that I will soar over the bar," says Sam Novak.

Sam's mother, Heather Novak, expressed her support: "Seeing my son’s confidence gives me reassurance that he is safe and capable of achieving new goals and reaching new heights."

The mental skills imparted by Dr. Dimberg include meditation techniques, enhancing focus, and mental preparedness for future competitions. Sam acknowledges these skills as instrumental in his progress as a pole vaulter.

“Sam had a great foundation of skills to build on and he has been diligent to his current mental skills practice, including meditation and visualization or imagery,” said Dr. Dimberg.

Looking ahead to his senior year in high school, Sam is already contemplating potential universities where he could pursue a business major. Despite his aspirations beyond athletics, pole vaulting remains a top priority for him as he continues to push boundaries in the sport.

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