Written by Older siblings can be tough, especially when it comes to athletics. The younger sibling is usually called too short … or too slow … or too weak; okay fine, that was him talking to me. My older brother, Nathaniel “San” Hensh, tragically died on July 21, 2020, and today, November 2, would have been his 31st birthday. Tonight, I interviewed myself
Our family has a legacy of being known for Sport, and San and I kept the tradition going.
San found out that he was a gifted Track & Field athlete in 7th grade; San then realized that he was a better Pole Vault Coach when I was in 10th grade. He tore his hamstring and was forced to retire from “vaulting.” We contemplated whether he should coach me (because come on, we’re brothers, and brothers argue like … well … brothers), but we gave it a shot; my God did we, along with our supporting coaches, blow it out of the water.
I went on to become the winningest Pole Vaulter in Laurel Highlands High School history (unfortunately I felt short of the school record … still coming for you Jared … yeah, I will never live it down). But my brother, San Hensh deserves the credit.
Yes, the Pole Vault culture is unique, but when your brother, your mentor, your best friend, and just simply a sweet guy becomes your coach, well readers, that is the Sport Culture of two brothers – Butch and Sundance or Rocky and Mick (I don’t care if you don’t get the references, they embody this).
Happy Birthday, San. We all love and miss you.
From San and I, as always, Cheers to Sports, and to Brothers in Sports.
- Nathaniel “San” P. Hensh
- November 2, 1990 – July 21, 2020.
- Beloved Son, Brother, and Coach
Pictured Above: Jacob Hensh (Left) and Elder Brother Nathaniel (Right) before a competition in Virginia.