Junior Alexia Gonzales will compete in the state powerlifting meet on March 17 in Fresco after she took second at the region meet in the 181-pound division on March 4 in Monahans.

“It’s a big reward,” Gonzales said. “I have pushed all season to be able to get to where I am now.”

Gonzales lifted a total of 900 pounds over three events (squat = 365 pounds, bench = 200 pounds, deadlift 335 pounds).

Gonzales said squat is her best event because “it determines a lot more than dead lift and bench.”

Gonzales said her mentors are Coach Will McCallister and Coach John Richmond.

“They push me to my limit,” Gonzales said. “They hold me accountable in everything I do.”

McCallister said Gonzales was the sort of athlete every coach wants in a program.

“She is always excited to get better and willing to do whatever it takes to improve herself,” McCallister said.  “She fell short of state last year, and all she’s talked about for the last year is getting there and what she needs to accomplish that goal.”

Gonzales was ranked third in the state after the invitational season.

Also at region competition, freshman Nancy Guenther Harms took 11th in the 259-pound division, lifting a total of 370 pounds.