Here comes Somerset’s 2nd season of boys weightlifting with the first official practice of the 2023 season on January 18th. Last year’s season went well, and those students who are now seniors are ready to compete, and even have their eyes on a run to states. Last week I attended the interest meeting and there were 25 young men there signing up, many were new faces. Last year there were just 18 lifters. Many members of the team are excited for this season and are ready to see the numbers they can put up along with their teammates. I asked Head Football Coach, Coach Gonzalez about his view of the weightlifting team. He stated, “ I’m happy to be going into our second year here at Somerset,” along with mentioning that all lineman on the football team are required to be a part of the weightlifting team. 

In high school weightlifting there are 3 lifts. The bench press, clean and jerk, and the snatch. Where you can choose to either count your bench and clean and jerk or snatch and clean and jerk to add up as a total number, thus leading to points for your team. In weightlifting you compete against other lifters in your weight class. The weight classes go from 119 lbs and under all the way to heavy weight which is 239 lbs+. 

I was at the first practice on Wednesday the 18th and met Head Coach Jeff Dempsey who is a world champion lifter and also talked to members of the team. Coach Jeff spoke passionately about the sport and had excitement in his voice for the upcoming season. He restated many times the importance of technique and is confident in the growth of strength in all members of the team. Reigning district champion of the 154 class, Michael Drillich, stated, “ I have high expectations for the team for this season especially with many more lifters joining. I have been training all off season and I believe with the guidance of Coach Jeff we will have a successful team that will win many meets.” Drillich went on to add that he is prepared to make a run for states.

This season will be filled with physical and mental strength development.With the consistent hard work throughout this season, the boys will benefit from the increases of strength, confidence and sportsmanship. With that being said, the Somerset boys weightlifting team is off for a successful season.