LETTER: Powerlifting is great asset to N ew Richmond

To the Editor:

Have you heard about the Powerlifting Club at New Richmond High School? The club is in its third year and has been an amazing, positive experience for all involved.

Powerlifting is a co-ed team sport with a family atmosphere. Lifters compete individually, but all of the kids watch over each other, encourage one another, help each other and have fun. It’s a great example of “students helping students.”

Lifters have the opportunity to develop leadership skills both with their peers and adults. The kids also learn dedication and accountability thanks to the caring and passionate volunteer (unpaid) coaches. Alumni powerlifters help out as assistant coaches.

We asked some of the lifters what is special about powerlifting, here are a few of their responses:

• It doesn’t matter where you start, it only matters where you end up.

• You go against yourself and everyone is pushing and cheering for you to help make you as strong as possible.

• It’s not about winning. It’s about pushing yourself so when I look back on this I can say that I did my best. I gave it my all.

• Powerlifting gives athletes a chance to push themselves further than they would have thought possible. You get out of it what you put in. It’s an individual battle & a team sport where you can learn a lot about yourself.

• Powerlifting teaches you self-discipline. You really have to challenge yourself mentally just as much as physically.

Last weekend 11 lifters (four guys, seven girls) competed in the Wisconsin State Tournament in Milwaukee. We also have six lifters competing in the national competition in the Wisconsin Dells March 23-25.

Thank you to the community for the great turnout at our indoor car wash Saturday, March 3. And thank you to Bernard’s for providing the space and the supplies.

If you were unable to attend the car wash you can still make a donation towards this program. Cash or checks (made out to New Richmond Powerlifting) can be sent to Casey Eckardt, high school activities director. As parents, we are thrilled that this program is available in New Richmond. We hope to see it continue for many years to come.

Parents of New Richmond powerlifters

John & Debbie Haag; Ron & Jeanne Cook; Susan Meeds; Tim Riemenschneider; Lisa Riemenschneider; Joe & Cheryl Stacken; Casey & Heidi Swetlik; and Bernie & Lynne Wollenberg

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion