Helena Duplantis is an inspiring person in the world of sports. She is not only the mother of Armand “Mondo” Duplantis, the record-breaking pole vaulter, but also a former heptathlete and a well-known coach. In this blog post, we will look at Helena’s life and her important role in helping Mondo succeed in athletics. From her own experiences in sports to the support she gives as a mother and coach, Helena has played a big part in Mondo’s achievements.
Who Is Helena Duplantis?
Helena Duplantis is not just a mother and coach, but a former accomplished athlete herself. Born on March 27, 1965, in Avesta, Sweden, Helena grew up in a family with a strong passion for athletics. Her father, Lars-Ake, was the head of the local athletics club and an avid pole vaulter who continued competing well into his golden years, up until the age of 80.
Growing up in such an environment, it’s no surprise that Helena developed a love for sports from a young age. She went on to become a talented heptathlete, representing Sweden in various international competitions. Her versatility was evident as she excelled in a wide range of events, including hurdles, triple jump, long jump, sprints, and high jump.
Helena Duplantis Early Life & Family
Helena’s journey took her across the Atlantic to Louisiana State University (LSU) in the United States, where she pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics while continuing to compete in track and field and volleyball at the collegiate level. It was at LSU that she met her future husband, Greg Duplantis, a world-class pole vaulter and attorney.
Together, Helena and Greg have raised four children, all of whom have inherited their parents’ love for athletics. But it’s their youngest son, Armand “Mondo” Duplantis, who has truly taken the world by storm with his incredible pole vaulting abilities.
Athletic Career Of Helena Duplantis
While Helena’s personal bests, such as her 11.91m triple jump in 1983, are impressive, her true impact on the sport has come through her coaching and support of her son Mondo. Along with her husband Greg, Helena has been coaching Mondo since he first picked up a pole, sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience.
But Helena’s expertise goes beyond just personal experience. She holds an IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition and is a certified USATF Level 1 Track & Field Coach, as well as a Level 2 and 3 Sprint & Hurdle Coach. She’s also a certified trainer and youth exercise specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
This comprehensive understanding of athletics, combined with her unwavering support and guidance, has been crucial in Mondo’s development into a world record holder and Olympic gold medalist. Helena’s presence at competitions, offering words of encouragement and crucial tips, has been a constant throughout Mondo’s career.
Helena Duplantis: From Athlete to Coach
Born in Avesta, Sweden, on March 27, 1965, Helena Duplantis was destined for a life in athletics. Her father, Lars-Ake, was the head of the local athletics club and a national-level pole vaulter. Helena began her athletic journey at the tender age of six, representing Sweden in several events, including the heptathlon. Her all-round athleticism saw her compete in hurdles, triple jump, long jump, 800m and 200m sprints, and high jump.
In 1985, Helena moved to the United States to attend Louisiana State University (LSU). It was here that she met her husband, Greg Duplantis, who was also a pole vaulter. After graduating with a BS in Dietetics, Helena continued her involvement in athletics, this time as a collegiate athlete in track and field and volleyball.
Marriage To Greg Duplantis
Helena’s journey took an exciting turn when she met Greg Duplantis at LSU. Sharing a common love for athletics, the couple soon married. Their union has not just been about love and companionship, but also a shared passion for athletics that they have passed on to their children, most notably their son, Armand “Mondo” Duplantis.
Contributions to Athletics
Helena’s contributions to athletics are evident, especially through the success of her son, Mondo. When Mondo started high school, Helena felt the need to provide more guidance due to the limitations of the school-based track system in the United States. This saw her take up a coaching role in the high school track and field team, initially with the girls, and later playing a significant role in Mondo’s training.
Helena and Greg’s collaborative approach to coaching has been instrumental in Mondo’s success. While Greg handles the pole vault specific elements, Helena focuses on strength and conditioning. Their teamwork has propelled Mondo to become a world record holder, Olympic champion, and multiple-time world and European champion.
Helena Duplantis Awards & Achievements
Helena’s achievements extend beyond her contributions to her son’s career. She holds various coaching certifications, including USA Track and Field Level 1, 2, and 3 certifications in sprint and hurdle events. She is also a certified trainer and youth exercise specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM).
Alongside coaching Mondo, Helena and Greg also work with other athletes, such as Belgian national record holder Ben Broeders. This further showcases Helena’s dedication and commitment to nurturing talent and contributing to the world of athletics.
Conclusion
Helena Duplantis is a significant figure in athletics, celebrated for her achievements as a former heptathlete and her vital role as a coach and mentor to her son, Armand “Mondo” Duplantis. Her early passion for sports, combined with her extensive coaching experience and certifications, has greatly contributed to Mondo’s success as a world record holder and Olympic champion.
Helena’s dedication extends beyond her family, as she actively supports and develops other athletes, showcasing the powerful impact a mother’s love and guidance can have in shaping the future of sports.
