East County Athlete of the Week: Daphne Quintal

May 30-31 was a big weekend for Daphne Quintal. Not only had she finished seventh grade at The Out-of-Door Academy, but she represented the Thunder at the inaugural Under Armour Track and Field Nationals, held at IMG Academy. She placed sixth in the girls' middle school pole vault event with a mark of 2.55 meters, setting a new personal best. Quintal is the East County Athlete of the Week.

How was your experience at the Under Armour Track and Field Nationals?

I thought it was cool. We got there, and I got to see (rising eighth-grade teammate Zoe Buller), of course. Then we were both vaulting back and forth. It was a bit of a different style than I was used to, because they had the 10-and-up, but then they also had boys running at the same time.

Did you have any expectations for yourself going into the event?

I was hoping for a new PR — 8 1/2 feet — which I did get. I did not expect to get near 9 feet, which I did. That was cool.

What were your goals this past season as a seventh grader in track and field?

I was just hoping to get up there and get more height. It was more competitive this year. Last year, we did vault a bit, but it wasn't much — maybe one or two meets. This year, we got to do a lot more vaulting.

When and why did you start pole vaulting?

I did track in sixth grade, and Zoe and her dad, coach Russ (Buller II), they did pole vault. Both of her parents (Russ Buller II and Dana Ellis) are vaulters. I got into it because of them. He was very generous to let me practice with them.

How would you describe the passion you have for this sport?

I love vaulting, because it's fun. I like doing it with Zoe. We get to practice together a lot, and it's good to have friends in sports. It's just fun in general.

What piece of advice have you always carried with you?

Coach Russ is always like, "Go and get it. You've got this." He always believes in me.

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

I love sports. I do three sports for school — track, basketball and volleyball. I'd probably have to say basketball (is my favorite), because I've been doing it since I was little.

Who is your favorite professional athlete?

Caitlin Clark.

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

I'd want to go on another cruise somewhere sunny. My family and I are going on a cruise to Alaska this summer.

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

Chick-fil-A.

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose and why?

Telekinesis. I'd love to move things with my mind.

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

I have a lot of stuff that I listen to. Olivia Rodrigo, Niall Horan and Alex Warren are a few of my favorites.

Finish this sentence. Daphne Quintal is...

Strong-minded.