Fresno State Powerlifting Club preparing for their National Meet
FRESNO, Calif. — At the Iron Office Gym in Northeast Fresno, a group of Fresno State Students are putting their strength to the test at the national level event.
“This is our biggest meet, and this is our second meet as a big team,” said Roman Pawar, Fresno State Power Lifting (FSPL) club president and 120 kg lifter.
It all started with a group of friends with the idea of starting a club for now one of the strongest collegiate teams in the state.
“The last meet we did, we competed at Western Collegiate Cup,” said Simon Zhamkochyan, FSPL treasurer and 83 kg lifter. “The team did very good. Everyone showed out. We got second place out of all teams.”
Powerlifting is a strength sport that consists of three lifts: squat, bench, and deadlift.
“We definitely surpassed our expectations and reached a lot of people,” said Aaron Rettig, FSPL vice president and 83 kg lifter. “We are hoping to get bigger and reach more people.”
Anyone can join the club.
“Honestly, it is because my boyfriend does it,” said Jailyn Annese, FSPL 69 kg lifter. “I just joined this past year. This is my first competition ever. So, I’m excited to see how it goes.”
“Powerlifting is a competitive sport, and I just wanted to try it,” said Gustavo Alvarado, FSPL 93 kg lifter. “I always said I was going to try it. FSPL really kind of put it into perspective, and I was already competing for my first meet, and it all lined it perfectly.”
The students say it’s not just a club. It is a community.
“I originally started powerlifting because it helped with my mental state, and it really helps a lot. Having a community to help you along, that has the same experience as just as you. It is comforting.” said Rettig.
Their next competition is on March 17 at the Reno Ballroom in Downtown Reno, Nevada.
For more information on how to get involved with Fresno State Powerlifting, go to their Instagram page and message them.