Death of Coach Greg Stull: A Great Loss for Pole Vaulting

 

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The Legacy of Greg Stull: A Tribute to a Champion Coach and Athlete

The athletics community is mourning the loss of Greg Stull, a beloved pole vault coach at Chapman University, who passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. His death on April 14, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the world of track and field, particularly in the Southland region of California, where he made significant contributions as both an athlete and a coach.

A Lifelong Passion for Pole Vaulting

Greg Stull was not only an accomplished pole vaulter during his time at UCLA but also a dedicated coach who devoted his life to nurturing young athletes. His passion for the sport was evident in his commitment to coaching and mentoring, shaping the careers of many aspiring pole vaulters. Stull’s knowledge and experience were invaluable assets, which he generously shared with coaching peers across the region.

Contributions to the Southland Track and Field Community

Throughout his career, Stull became a pillar in the Southland track and field community. His influence extended beyond the confines of Chapman University, as he actively participated in various coaching clinics and workshops, where he shared his expertise with fellow coaches. His dedication to the sport and its athletes was unmatched, and his loss leaves a significant void in the community.

Coaching Philosophy and Impact

Stull’s coaching philosophy centered around building strong, confident athletes. He understood that pole vaulting is not just a physical challenge but also a mental one. His approach combined rigorous training with emotional support, ensuring that his athletes were well-prepared for competitions. Many of his former athletes credit him with instilling the values of perseverance, hard work, and resilience, which have shaped their lives both on and off the field.

A Legacy of Excellence

Stull’s legacy transcends his personal achievements in pole vaulting. As a coach, he cultivated talent and fostered a love for the sport in many young athletes. Under his guidance, numerous pole vaulters achieved personal bests and excelled in competitions, some even earning scholarships to prestigious universities. His dedication to the development of pole vaulting in the Southland will be remembered for generations.

Community Remembering a Mentor

The news of Stull’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from athletes, coaches, and colleagues. Rich Gonzalez, a well-known figure in the track and field community, shared the heartbreaking news on social media, highlighting Stull’s impact and the respect he garnered throughout his career. The response from the athletics community reflects the deep admiration and affection held for Stull, who was seen not only as a coach but as a mentor and friend.

The Importance of Support in Athletics

Stull’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental and emotional support in athletics. Coaches like Stull play a crucial role in the lives of their athletes, providing guidance during both triumphs and tribulations. His legacy emphasizes the need for a supportive environment in sports, where athletes can thrive and develop holistically.

Remembering Greg Stull

As the athletics community mourns the loss of Greg Stull, it also celebrates the incredible legacy he leaves behind. His passion for pole vaulting, commitment to coaching, and dedication to his athletes will continue to inspire future generations. The impact of his life’s work will resonate with many, as those who were fortunate enough to know him carry forward the lessons he imparted.

Conclusion

Greg Stull’s legacy is one of excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the sport of pole vaulting. His contributions to Chapman University and the broader athletics community will not be forgotten. As we remember his life and the joy he brought to so many, let us honor his memory by continuing to support and uplift the athletes and coaches who follow in his footsteps. The spirit of Greg Stull will live on in every pole vaulting competition, as his influence continues to inspire athletes to reach new heights.

Just received the very sad news that Chapman University pole vault coach Greg Stull, a longtime Southland presence in the event as an athlete (UCLA) and coach, passed away yesterday from a heart attack. He shared his knowledge with coaching peers while coaching both preps and (+) pic.twitter.com/YvHH9vBsjl

— Rich Gonzalez (@PrepCalTrack) April 15, 2025

Just Received the Very Sad News That Chapman University Pole Vault Coach Greg Stull Passed Away

It’s with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Greg Stull, the pole vault coach at Chapman University. He was not just a coach; he was a mentor, a friend, and a fixture in the Southland athletic community. Stull had a rich history in the world of pole vaulting, both as an accomplished athlete during his time at UCLA and later as a dedicated coach. His sudden departure due to a heart attack has left a significant void in the lives of many.

A Longtime Southland Presence in the Event

Greg Stull made an indelible mark in the Southland, where he cultivated talent and shared his love for pole vaulting with generations of athletes. His experience as a pole vaulter at UCLA laid the foundation for a deep understanding of the sport. This knowledge transitioned seamlessly into his coaching career, where he inspired countless high school and collegiate athletes to reach new heights, both literally and figuratively.

Stull’s coaching philosophy was rooted in the belief that every athlete has the potential to excel. He dedicated his life to nurturing that potential, providing not just technical training but also emotional support. His vision for the sport extended beyond mere competition; he envisioned a community where athletes could thrive and support one another.

Coach and Mentor to Many

Over the years, Greg Stull became a mentor to many aspiring pole vaulters. His approach to coaching was holistic; he focused on developing not only the physical skills needed for success but also the mental fortitude that comes with the sport. He often held workshops and coaching clinics, sharing his insights and techniques with peers in the coaching community. Stull’s willingness to give back to the sport he loved is a testament to his character and passion.

His impact was felt not only in the athletes he coached directly but also in the broader community of coaches. Stull was known for fostering an environment of collaboration and growth, encouraging coaches to share their strategies and experiences. His dedication to the sport was evident in every interaction—whether he was on the field with his athletes or discussing techniques with fellow coaches.

A Legacy of Excellence

As we reflect on Greg Stull’s career, it’s clear that his legacy will endure. He was more than just a coach; he was a leader in the pole vaulting community. His commitment to excellence and his unwavering support for his athletes set a standard that many will strive to uphold. The lessons he imparted to his athletes will resonate for years to come, influencing future generations of pole vaulters.

Stull’s approach to coaching emphasized the importance of hard work, perseverance, and resilience. He often reminded his athletes that failure is not the opposite of success; rather, it is a part of the journey. This mindset allowed many of his athletes to push through their limits, discovering their true potential in the process.

Shared Knowledge with Coaching Peers

One of the standout qualities of Greg Stull was his willingness to share knowledge. He believed that collaboration among coaches could elevate the sport as a whole. Through various coaching clinics and networking events, he made it a point to connect with other coaches, share best practices, and discuss the latest advancements in pole vaulting techniques. His contributions to the coaching community were invaluable, and many looked up to him as a role model.

Stull’s dedication to education didn’t stop at coaching clinics. He was an advocate for ongoing learning, encouraging coaches to seek out new techniques and strategies that could benefit their athletes. Whether it was through formal education or hands-on experience, Stull inspired coaches to strive for continuous improvement.

The Impact of His Loss

The news of Greg Stull’s passing has sent shockwaves through the athletic community. Coaches, athletes, and fans alike are mourning the loss of a true icon. His influence reached far beyond the pole vaulting pit; he was a father figure to many and a source of inspiration for countless athletes.

In the days following his passing, tributes have poured in from former athletes and colleagues who have shared stories of how Stull impacted their lives. From guiding athletes through personal challenges to celebrating their successes, Greg was always there, ready to lend an ear or offer advice. His legacy is one of compassion and dedication, a reminder of the positive impact that a coach can have.

Honoring His Memory

As we come to terms with this loss, it’s important to celebrate Greg Stull’s life and the legacy he leaves behind. Many are finding ways to honor his memory, whether through scholarship funds for aspiring pole vaulters or by organizing events that reflect his passion for the sport. It’s a testament to the love and respect he garnered throughout his career.

For those who knew him, the memories are bittersweet. While the sadness of his passing lingers, the joy he brought to countless lives will never fade. It’s essential that we carry forward his principles and teachings, continuing the work he started and nurturing the next generation of athletes.

Conclusion: A Life Well Lived

In reflecting on the life of Greg Stull, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on so many. His dedication to pole vaulting, his athletes, and the coaching community at large serves as a powerful example of what it means to lead with passion and purpose.

As we navigate the future without him, let us remember the lessons he taught us. Let us strive to be better coaches, better mentors, and better friends, just as he was. Greg Stull may be gone, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him and learn from him.

For more tributes and memories of Greg Stull, you can check out [Rich Gonzalez’s tweet](https://twitter.com/PrepCalTrack/status/1911989019589968382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) that captures the essence of his impact on the athletic community.