Matthew Gray of App State has earned first-team All-America honors after finishing fifth in the NCAA pole vault championship, clearing 5.60 meters (18 feet, 4.5 inches). This marks Gray as the 21st athlete in App State's track and field history to achieve All-America status, and he is only the third Mountaineer to place in the top five at the NCAA level. His performance is notable as it continues a strong trend for the App State pole vault program following Lilly Nichols' recognition last year. Gray was the top-ranked pole vaulter in the NCAA prior to the championships, showcasing a remarkable season with six first-place finishes.

By the Numbers
  • Gray cleared 5.60 meters to secure fifth place among 24 competitors.
  • This is the third top-five NCAA finish in App State's men's track and field history.
  • Gray had six first-place finishes during the outdoor season.
State of Play
  • Gray entered the championships as the No. 1 pole vaulter in the NCAA.
  • He is ranked No. 5 in the U.S. and No. 15 globally for pole vaulting in 2026.
What's Next

With this achievement, Gray is poised for continued success, possibly setting sights on future championships and improving his national ranking. His performance could lead to endorsements and greater visibility for the App State track program, emphasizing the strength of their coaching staff.

Bottom Line

Matthew Gray's impressive NCAA performance not only solidifies his place in App State athletics but also sets a promising tone for the future of the pole vault program, highlighting the potential for more breakthroughs in competitions to come.