East County Athlete of the Week: Paxon Hermann

Paxon Hermann has been an athlete of many talents for The Out-of-Door Academy boys track and field team. The sophomore competes in the high jump, pole vault, long jump and triple jump. On April 21, those talents went on display at the FHSAA Class 1A-District 11 meet, where he placed first in the pole vault (3.90 meters), second in the triple jump (12.54), third in the long jump (6.09) and tied for third in the high jump (1.62). Hermann is the East County Athlete of the Week.

How would you evaluate your performance at the district meet?

I was trying to ensure that I could get to regionals without pushing myself too hard that I would get injured. Once I did have the marks that ensured that, I wanted to push myself to do the best I could — place-wise and mark-wise.

Do you have a favorite event to compete in?

My favorite event definitely is pole vault. It's always been pole vault since I first started it (in seventh grade).

Now in the postseason, what is your focus in practice?

Recently, we're zoning in on triple jump and pole vault. We're working more on the technical attributes instead of strength training or conditioning.

What were your goals entering this season?

I wanted to get to states for pole vault and triple jump, which is looking likely upon the horizon.

When and why did you starting competing in track and field?

My dad (Scott Hermann) did track in college. It was always something he wanted me to do, and I've just been getting more serious (about it) every year since middle school.

Why have you stuck with this sport?

I like that you're not competing against people, but you're competing against yourself. You can always cheer people on — even if they're technically the competition. I meet people and then I see them all the time.

What quote or piece of advice have you carried with you?

My dad always says, "Things don't get easier. You've just got to get good at doing hard things."

What's a fun fact about you not many people know?

I like creative writing. In college, I want to minor in something related to English.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

Tallinn, Estonia. My best friend's dad, he lived in Tallinn for a couple years for business, and the way he describes it sounds so nice and homey.

If you had to eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you eat and why?

The wagyu beef sliders from (CMX Cinebistro).

What music helps you get in the zone during practice or before a meet?

I listen to, lately, Kanye West — he's been in the rotation. But anything, really.

Finish this sentence. Paxon Hermann is...

Determined.