Chaloupka to Pole Vault for Arkansas State

There’s no grass growing under Katharina Chaloupka’s feet as she has been on the move in athletics since grade school at Weimar ISD. Her diligent efforts in pole vault included not only a regiment of training and running in school under Coach Terra Griffin, but excelling and continuance of precision training with Advanced Athletics Club in Sealy under renowned Coach Clayton Fritsch (originally Frio Vault under Coach Jeff Brandes).

Recently she accepted a scholarship offer to pole vault for Arkansas State University.

Pole vault became a big part of her life early on and in her junior year, she captured 2nd in State topping it off this year with a 1st. Aside from keeping up her high grades, she managed two trips to Nationals in FFA (winning 1st on her last trip), regional competition in track running the 100 meter, state competition in cross country, regional trip in UIL with debate, and a state trip with her band winning 5th in state. It was no surprise that she would continue on with her legacy as she begins her studies in animal science. (She’s raised goats, lambs, turkeys, bees, and chickens on a farm her entire life and loves her critters.)

Last week, “KC” was awarded the 2025 Texas All-State High School Track and Field Honors not only for the State of Texas but also as All-Senior Girls First Team as a top athlete based on her performances throughout the season. On her trip to Jonesboro, Arkansas, she had an extensive opportunity to view the campus and connect with Coach Matt Vining and Dr. Jim Patchell, Director of Track & Field and Cross Country.

Chaloupka also had an opportunity while at Jonesboro to see the beginning construction of the new veterinary school that will be completed fall of 2026. “Everything seems to have fallen in place,” states Katharina. “I’m very excited about these opportunities to continue and advance with what I enjoy and thank everyone that has supported me throughout this entire process— my family, friends, coaches, mentors, community, church, and school have been phenomenal.”

Katharina is the daughter of David and Cathy Chaloupka and granddaughter of Irene Handley of Hallettsville.