Powerlifters begin season in Andrews
The powerlifting season began with two new coaches who have plans to take their lifters to state.
“Successful in powerlifting is easy to define in my mind,” Indian Coach Ty Palmer said. “We want to see kids improve weekly on their totals. I think if we do that and put in the hard work, then winning and qualifying for regionals will take care of itself.”
The Indians and Maidens combined for seven state qualifiers in 2014.
“This team looks to be very strong,” Palmer said. “We want to carry on the tradition that has been built here already. We will focus on our totals each meet. That is what powerlifting is about improving yourself every chance you can. If that happens then we will be where we need to be when regionals comes around.”
Michael Mann heads the Maiden program.
“I am hoping to build on last year’s successes,” Mann said. “There are several girls who have a chance to get farther than they went last year. They have a good foundation under them; now it’s time for them to build on that.”
The Indians took fourth and the Maidens took third at the Andrews meet on Jan. 17.
“One thing Coach Palmer and I plan to do is get the kids to come together as a program, not just a boys and girls team and not just as individuals,” Mann said. “It takes a team to be successful. We work out together. We have team shirts. We travel together. We do almost everything together. The idea that ‘it takes a Tribe’ that has been brought in with our staff is very applicable. You need spotters and help with wrapping knees. You need support from each other and to be excited for other teammates’ successes. You need help putting bench shirts and squat suits on. Powerlifting is very much a team sport.”
The Maiden team even has a new third period athletic period where they work exclusively with strength and conditioning Coach Dustin Rotan.
“I feel like it gives us more of a chance to get better,” sophomore Brianna Lujan said. “I think I have a chance of going to state this year.”
If the three weight class championships in Andrews are any indication, the Maidens could surpass last year’s five-member state qualification. Junior Madi Werner set a new regional record in Andrews, deadlifting 250 pounds.
The lifters will host the home meet on Jan. 31 at the old junior high.
Andrews Meet Results from Jan. 17
Maidens–third with 24 points Individually–105-pound class–junior Madi Werner first place (215+95+250=560 pounds); 123-pound class–sophomore Amanda Rodriguez–first place (265+155+275=695 pounds); 148-pound class–junior Brittany Kelly–first place (290+140+300=730 pounds); 148-pound class–junior Monica Alvidrez–third place (220+120+230=570 pounds)
Indians–fourth with 16 points Individually–114-pound class–freshman Randy Jones–second place (220+100+220=540 pounds); 165-pound class–sophomore Scout Powers–second place (270+170+315=755 pounds); 198-pound class–junior Andrew Sanders–fifth place (255+190+285=730 pounds)
