Meet Helena Duplantis: The mastermind behind Mondo’s record-smashing journey
In the high-stakes world of pole vaulting, where every inch can mean the difference between triumph and defeat, Mondo Duplantis has soared higher than any athlete before him. Yet, behind his record-breaking feats stands a quiet but formidable presence—his mother and coach, Helena Duplantis.
Her journey from Swedish track and field star to the mastermind behind her son’s historic achievements is a story of dedication, innovation, and an unyielding belief in the power of nurturing talent with care and flexibility.
A Legacy in Athletics
Helena Duplantis was practically born into athletics. Growing up in Sweden, she was surrounded by the sport, with her father serving as the head of the local athletics club. The image of a three-year-old Helena playing in the long jump pit encapsulates a childhood steeped in track and field. Her natural talent flourished early, leading her to represent Sweden in the heptathlon before earning a scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU) in 1985. It was there she met her husband, Greg Duplantis, a fellow pole vaulter, setting the stage for a life immersed in the sport.
Raising a Champion
Helena and Greg’s four children were all encouraged to engage in sports, but it was Mondo who quickly rose to prominence. From a young age, Mondo demonstrated a unique talent in pole vaulting, and his parents, both well-versed in the sport, became his primary coaches. While Greg focused on the technical aspects of pole vaulting, Helena took charge of strength and conditioning—a partnership that has proven immensely successful. Under their guidance, Mondo has shattered world records and claimed Olympic, world, and European titles.
The Unexpected Coach
Helena’s journey into coaching was not a planned career move. Initially, she was a dedicated “soccer mom” and “baseball mom,” focusing on her children’s activities. However, as Mondo entered high school and began to show exceptional promise in pole vaulting, Helena felt the need to step in. The American school system, with its reliance on school-based sports programs, was vastly different from the club-based system she knew in Sweden. Realising that Mondo needed more specialized guidance, Helena began crafting his workout plans, a role that expanded as he continued to excel.
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A Philosophy Rooted in Flexibility
Helena’s coaching philosophy is markedly different from the regimented approaches of her past coaches. Her style is more relaxed, a reflection of Mondo’s personality. She prioritises flexibility, adapting workouts based on how Mondo feels on any given day. This approach, though unconventional, has been tailored to Mondo’s unique needs. “I’m not an authoritarian coach,” Helena explains. “I’m more flexible. When I grew up, if it was written on the paper, I had to do it. But I think that was sometimes detrimental to my development.”
The Art of Continuous Learning
Helena’s approach to coaching is characterized by a commitment to lifelong learning. She acknowledges that coaching is not a static profession; it requires constant adaptation and openness to new ideas. “There’s so much to discuss and so many different approaches to coaching an athlete that it feels like you never stop learning,” she says. This humility and willingness to evolve have made her an exemplary coach, one who understands that every athlete is different and that a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.
Conclusion
Helena Duplantis may not seek the spotlight, but her contributions to Mondo’s success are undeniable. Her journey from a Swedish track and field star to a world-class coach is a testament to the power of passion, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the athletes she guides. As Mondo continues to reach new heights in the pole vault, it’s clear that behind every leap is the quiet, unwavering support of a mother who turned into a coach—a true unsung heroine in the world of athletics.
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