University of South Alabama Athletics

Hanna-Mai Vaikla is entering her first year as a volunteer assistant coach for South Alabama Track and Field after spending five sensational years (2018-2023) on the Jaguars women's team as a heptathlete. Vaikla had an impressive career, recording five combined outdoor and indoor Sun Belt All-Conference honors in five different events, one Sun Belt title in the Javelin, and qualified for two NCAA East Preliminary Regional rounds. 

Vaikla brought that same dedication to the classroom as she was named to the Sun Belt Conference All-Academic Honoree List (2020-22) and the All-Academic Board of the National Collegiate Division 1 Track and Field Coaches Association (2020-21). 

The Estonia native began her coaching career as a volunteer student assistant coach at Davidson High School and Baker High School located in Mobile, Alabama, from 2021-22. During her time as a volunteer assistant, she coordinated drills and helped athletes practice events to improve athlete performance. She also assisted in managing athletes' discipline, performance, and other decision-making areas. 

Hanna-Mai graduated from South Alabama with a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies in May of 2021 before going on to earn a master's Degree in Exercise Science in South Alabama in May of 2023. Most recently, Vaikla earned her USA Division l Track and Field and Cross Country Technical Certification in November of 2023.