#342: Mike McCarroll-Game One | From Pole Vault Passion to Serving Coaches Everywhere

This week, we flip the script and feature one of our amazing dealer partners who helps us empower coaches every single day. Meet Mike McCarroll — former pole vaulter, college coach, and now a Game One sales rep helping athletic programs across Texas get the equipment they need.

Mike shares his journey 📈:

🦅 Growing up a proud Texas pole vaulter with a family legacy

🎓 Choosing McMurry University over a D1 powerhouse — and how that changed everything

🤕 The injury that unexpectedly launched his coaching career

👨‍🏫 High school cross country, college multis, and the joy of building athletes

🛠️ His transition into serving all sports through Game One

🤝 The impact of helping coaches elevate their programs

🗣️ “You’ve got to do what you enjoy doing. If you’re passionate about something — go for it.” — Mike McCarroll

Whether you’re a coach, a rep, or someone somewhere in between, Mike’s story is a reminder that the journey doesn’t always go as planned… but often ends up exactly where you’re supposed to be.

🌟 Explore Our Library: Dive into nearly 350 episodes featuring insights from coaching legends such as Boo Schexnayder and Dan Pfaff, Diljeet Taylor (BYU) and Beth Alford-Sullivan, as well as superstar coaches Petros Kyprianou (Illinois), Althea Thomas (Vanderbilt) and many more! Find us on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more for your listening pleasure.

🎙️ Create Your Own Podcast Episode: Reach out to Mike Cunningham for instruction on how to create your very own Gill1918 Project episode, which airs Tuesdays through Sundays. Find YOUR voice on the Gill Connections Podcast Network.

📲 Stay Connected: Want to get in touch with our host, Mike Cunningham? Follow on Twitter (@MikeCunningham), email at mcunningham@gillathletics.com, or text to 217-898-3038. We love hearing from you! 🎧👍