RISE Pole Vault’s inception was sparked by Jake Winder’s vision: a haven for the pole-vaulting community of Chicagoland, where dreams could turn into reality. This home would be a space where pole vaulters, backed by elite coaching, quality equipment, and a premium facility, could transcend their imaginations’ limits.
This venture, however, didn’t just spring up overnight. Its roots trace back to Jake’s father Tim Winder’s story. Despite Woodlawn High lacking a track team, Tim’s burgeoning passion for pole vaulting remained undeterred. Unaided, he immersed himself in knowledge and intense backyard practice. This dedication bore fruit in 1979, when he not only clinched the Illinois State Championship but also set a state record. This marked the true genesis of RISE Pole Vault.
Want to hear more about this story? Check out the One More Jump Podcast episode with Tim Winder.
RISE Pole Vault
Since Tim Winder’s introduction to pole vaulting in 1973, his family has carved an extraordinary legacy. Together, Tim and his sons Jake (owner/coach), Josh, and Luke (general manager/coach) form the world’s highest pole vaulting quartet in history. They collectively hold five Illinois State championships and 12 Division 3 National Championships. All three brothers have competed post-college at elite levels, with Luke, a 2022 world championship team member, still active and boasting a personal best of 5.80 meters (19′ 1/4″).
The Winder family’s experience has significantly benefitted Chicagoland’s community for decades. Tim’s impactful coaching career, starting at Naperville Central and extending to North Central College, along with numerous camps and clinics since 1987, shaped a highly effective pole vaulting teaching system.
In 2019, the Winders decided to extend their extensive knowledge and a purpose-built training facility to any aspiring pole vaulter. Consequently, RISE Pole Vault came into existence.
Jake Winder
Jake Winder, the founder and owner of RISE Pole Vault, was a 2 time National Champion and 5 time All-American at North Central College. He then went on to place 2nd at the USA Championships in 2013 with a PR 5.55m (18’3″). Jake has spent his entire life around the pole vault and has made it his mission to spread that knowledge on a scale that has never been done before through RISE Pole Vault. Jake is also the founder and host of the One More Jump Podcast, where he interviews the top pole vaulters and coaches of all time, aiding in his mission to spread quality information to vaulters across the world.
Luke Winder
Luke Winder, a 7x NCAA national champion, 8x All-American, 2x State Champion, 2022 world championship team member, and placed 6th at the 2024 Olympic Trials. Luke grew up surrounded by excellence in the vault. As the 4th pole vault state champion in his family, Luke has learned and been through every aspect of the RISE training philosophy from its start. Luke was an elite level vaulter for many years and finished his career with a PR of 5.80m (19’0.25”) before retiring in October of 2024. Luke coaches at RISE and is the Operations Manager of the business. He has played an integral part in the development of RISE since 2020.
Coach John Wood
John Wood, a six-time All-American and North Central College alumni, became part of the RISE Pole Vault coaching team in Fall 2021. A former student of Tim Winder, the godfather of the RISE System, John achieved a personal best of 17’7″. With his childhood steeped in the RISE System and experience teaching at his parents’ Palatine martial arts studio, John combines deep familiarity with the method and excellent instructional skills. As RISE’s Content Director, he’s also instrumental in building its rapidly expanding online presence.
Coach Mike Karl
Since joining RISE’s coaching staff in 2020, Coach Mike Karl has consistently unlocked athletes’ potential. With over 12 years as the pole vaulting coach at Providence Catholic High School, he’s guided many state qualifiers and high-performing athletes, leading several boys past the 16-foot mark and girls over 13 feet. We’re fortunate to benefit from Mike’s vast expertise in pole vaulting.
Coach Tucker Platt
Tucker Platt, originally from Stromsburg, NE, is a 2x NAIA National Qualifier in pole vault with a PR of 15’5” from his time under Jason Berry at Concordia University Nebraska. He joins RISE as Director of High Performance, bringing expertise in strength, speed, and long-term athletic development. Recognized by the NHSSCA as an Outstanding Young Coach, Tucker utilizes sport science tech and data to drive progress and real-time feedback. He’s also shared his passion through clinics, podcasts, and published work—making him a strong addition to the RISE team
Joel Jaquinde
Joel Jaquinde has been involved with the the RISE coaches for nearly a decade, first as an athlete and now as a coach. A North Central College graduate and collegiate athlete, Joel has coached state qualifiers at both Naperville Central and Palos Heights High School, and has now joined us as a coach at RISE! Beyond coaching, he serves as a USATF and IHSA official, giving back to the track and field community. Joel is dedicated to helping athletes grow in their performance and as individuals, bringing passion and commitment to every vault.
