The Union powerlifting team took another step toward winning a fourth straight Class 2A state powerlifting championship.
Union had five lifters win their weight class on while all 12 lifters advanced to the Class 2A state meet.
“Hard work pays off,” Union coach Daryl Jones said. “I’m sure these boys/men will work even harder and with more focus with our fourth straight state championship in sight.”
Leading the way for the Yellowjackets with first place finishes at the North State meet at Calhoun City Feb. 29 were Gavin Heath in the 132-pound weight class, Jaheim Gill in the 165-pound weight class, Raylond Nettles in the 198-pound weight class Zach Collins in the 242-pound weight class while Jacob Moore won the 275 pound weight class.
Finishing second in their weight class was Bankston Rush in the 132-pound class while Cameron Jackson was second in the 148-pound class. Carlos Hickman was second in the 165-pound weight class while John O’Neal was second in the 220-pound weight class. Trent McDonald was second in the 275-pound weight class while Michael Rush was second in the 308-pound weight class and Alex Sharp was third in the 308-pound weight class.
The Class 2A state meet is set for Saturday, April 18 starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Mississippi Coliseum in Jackson.
Newton County
The Cougars also had a strong showing in the region 2-4A powerlifting meet.
Finishing first for Newton County was Garrett Loper in the 148-pound class while Carlonte Walker was first in the 165-pound class. Devyon May won the 181-pound weight class while Carlois Walker was first in the 198-pound weight class. Jarvis Tucker was first in the 242-pound weight class while Preston Garvin won the 308-plus pound weight class.
Cade Mangum was second in the 123-pound weight class while Kyle Garrison was second in the 242-pound weight class and Holder Usry was second in the 275-pound weight class. Kyren Wansley was third in the 114-pound weight class while Garrett Loper was third in the 148-pound weight class.
Newton County will advance 11 lifters to the North 4A meet which will be held on March 20 at Itawamba High School in Fulton.
