MICHAEL MONROE
Mike is originally from Chicago and competed in high jump in high school. When did you realize
that you were good? “I did other track and field events freshman year in high school I wanted
to be a runner, but I wasn’t any good really . Then my coach told me to try high jump and
I realized that I had a natural talent for it.” He then went on to describe how he ended up
competing in Ukraine and how the University of Pennsylvania came about. “Penn [University of
Pennsylvania] was just the perfect balance, good academics and good track team.”
During his studies, Mike won the Ivy League HEPS [Heptagonal] Outdoor Track and Field
Championship in high jump twice. This year he got the title in front of his home crowd in
Philadelphia at the University of Philadelphia jumping an impressive 2.11 meters. However, it
should be noted that his personal best is 2.15 meters.
Ultimately, he wants to compete in the Olympics, although, there is still a way to go before then.
“To make it into the Olympics I have to jump at least 2.28 meter, so I have some improvements
to do.” If you make it all the way to the Olympics, which country would you want to compete
for? “Actually, I think I would like to represent Sweden if I can stay long enough.” He continues
to speak about the Track and Field team in Karlstad [Karlstad GP] and how he wants to help
the team and Karlstad become the Swedish city of jumps. Mike currently ranks third in Sweden.
What are you mostly looking forward to about moving to Sweden? “I’m looking forward to
getting to the next level [in high jump], it’s a great opportunity for me. I’m also excited to live in
another country; I’ve never lived abroad before.” Mike stops for a bit, takes another sip of his
latte. “Oh and also, falukorv with pasta and ketchup” he says in his best Swedish.
Lastly, do you have any plans after your high jump career? “I studied psychology in college and
I would love to coach track [athletics] at some point.”
But in the meantime, watch out for the young American wearing the bright blue and yellow in
Tokyo 2020.
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