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Lizzie Waters Best Marks
Pole Vault - 11-3
100 Hurdles - 15.04
300 Hurdles - 44.56
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Q) Talk about the recruitment process - what other schools were you looking at, and how did you come to choosing the Hawaii?
Through the recruitment process, I had a ton help and support from my coach and my parents. I was looking at possibly attending University of San Francisco, Belmont University, and Colorado State University. I chose Hawaii because I fell in love with the environment of the campus and team. I've always dreamed of living the island life and now I have the opportunity to do so. I love the team atmosphere and the dynamic between the athletes and the coaches; and for these reasons I have chosen University of Hawaii.
Q) What do you plan to study at Hawaii?
I plan on studying business specifically entrepreneurship at Hawaii.
Q) What got you into track and field in the first place?
I was first introduced to track and field freshman year of high school. I had previously competed in gymnastics but my career was coming to a close so I was looking for a new sport. My old brother, Ben Waters, ran track and field so I decide to give it a try. My freshman year I only ran 400 meter sprints and naturally I didn't fall in love with it so the next year I decided to venture into hurdles and pole vault and that's where I found my passion.
Q) You've had success in everything from the 100 hurdles up to the 300 hurdles, and on over to the pole vault, what is your favorite event and why?
Out of all the events I would say I most enjoy the pole vault. Although it could arguably be the most mental/technical event in track and field, it is also the most thrilling. I still have a lot of growing to do in the pole vault but I love the challenge of learning the event. Pole vault reminds me most of gymnastics and it helps satisfy my need to flip around and get an adrenaline rush.
Q) You made huge gains in the pole vault from 2017 to 2018, what would you say attributed to your improvement?
In the 2017 to 2018 I was able to spend more time training which allowed for my growth. Pole vault is a very technical event which means it requires practice, time, and muscle memory. I have an amazing pole vault coach, Tracy Major, which has been a huge reason for my progress.
Q) What event do you see yourself focusing on at Hawaii?
At the University of Hawaii I plan on training for both hurdles and pole vault and hopefully being able to compete and benefit the team through my performances.
Q) Could you share any goals you have for the upcoming track season?
In the outdoor season I would like to see myself PR in all my events and take my team as far as possible. Since it is my senior year I love to see the team go far this season.
