A love for lifting: USU powerlifting club is inclusive of all

The USU powerlifting club works to make the gym more accessible to all. In a sport that can seem intimidating at first glance, the club aims to create a comfortable environment for athletes across campus to compete and exercise. With open practices, mock meets and other events, lifting has never been easier. 

Club president Derek Hayes has led the charge.  

“We compete in local and soon, national level powerlifting competitions as well as train with and support one another. We compete in the Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift,” Hayes wrote in a message to The Utah Statesman. 

Hayes’ love of competition has motivated him to take on a leadership role and continue with the club. 

“My favorite part of competitions is the energy of everyone cheering you on and getting to give your all at something you love,” Hayes wrote. 

The club has had many successes throughout the years. Hayes himself has been one of the largest contributors to their wins.  

“Recently, I won best overall lifter at a very competitive competition in Salt Lake City. We have had many others and myself set countless state records and win their individual weight classes,” Hayes wrote. “I myself have improved and increased my numbers significantly since I first joined the club. I truly don’t believe I could have done it without being surrounded and getting to befriend like-minded individuals.” 

© CWild Photography

Chapman Hercules does heavy squats during the USU powerlifting practice at Next Level Strength and Fitness, Dec. 5.

He’s been able to observe the people around him follow a similar path, watching them grow both as athletes and as people. 

“I have seen so much growth in the club. Having been in it for almost 2 years now, I’ve seen novice beginner lifters grow into competitive powerlifters at the local level,” Hayes wrote. “I’ve watched many people just gain more confidence in general and feel more at place at Utah State through the club.” 

Hayes said the club was best part of his college experience.  

“I searched online when I was deciding what school to go to and found it. Influenced my decision heavily to come here,” Hayes wrote. “It made my experience at Utah State be the best. I would not be here without the club.” 

It’s not just Hayes who has found such a good addition to his college experience in weightlifting. Vice president Ashton Call echoed these sentiments.  

“I learned about it through Day on the Quad my freshman year,” he wrote in a message to The Utah Statesman. “The Club has given me a place to grow and become better.” 

Call enjoys seeing his teammates improve and go out to events to compete.  

“We host practices once a week to prepare our members to compete in competitions. Many of our members do well, including state records. This year, we have had a handful of members qualify for USAPL Collegiate Nationals in April 2024,” Call wrote. 

Even though he joined for the lifting, the community stands out to Call. 

“Meeting people outside my major has been super helpful,” Call wrote. “My team members have grown into some of my best friends!” 

Students who are interested in attending practices can contact the club @usupowerlifting on Instagram or go to open practices at the Logan Next Level Strength and Fitness each Tuesday at 8 p.m.