The weight room has been very busy during and after school. This year’s first powerlifting meet will be held at Goddard High School Feb. 28.

The invitational meet will begin at 8 a.m. The three events athletes are scored on are squat, bench, and hang or power clean. Placing is based on the total weight lifted in the three events. Conway Springs athletes have represented their school for several years at this meet.  Powerlifting coach Matt Biehler said he takes about 20 boys and 10 girls each year to this invitational.

Athletes who participate have different aspects they enjoy.

“The best part of powerlifting is when you hit a new max at a weight lifting meet,” sophomore Grant Mooneyham said.

Other upcoming powerlifting meets include the Conway Springs invitational meet held on March 14. Students in grades 7-12 are allowed to compete at this meet. Placing is based on power ratio, which means taking the weight of all lifts divided by body weight. This year, the state meet will be held here at Conway Springs High School as well. Between 30 and 35 schools are expected to compete at state.

“People should go out for powerlifting because it gives you something to do,” sophomore Justin Lange said. “It’s exciting to beat your max weight and see who is the strongest person there.”