Senior and founder of Powerlifting Club at Solon High School, Eli O’keefe, goes through a brief Q&A on his powerlifting progress, as well as the club’s start up, following its debut last year.
Q: How has the club changed since its debut last year?
A: We had about 5-6 members that were interested, and only three of them had done any type of powerlifting. Now we’re up to about 15 members, and we have 10 consistent members who have all told me that they’re ready to enter in our first competition.
Q: How have your PRs (personal records) changed since last year?
A: Last year my squat was only around 250 lbs. This year I’m squatting around 400 lbs. My bench press has increased 35 lbs, adding up to 215.
Q: What’s your definition of success in the weight room?
A: Putting in the effort every single day and just trying to be better, even if you’re not actually getting better.
Q: What have you done to get your club out there?
A: Last year it started with a Google Form, then it led to telling my classmates in SAQ [Strength, Agility and Quickness], as well as having patience.
Q: What’s your go-to-lift?
A: It tends to go in phases– I very much enjoy squats at the moment, but I’d probably say deadlift is. It has always been what I’m best at, what I stick to.
According to O’keefe, the Powerclifting Club is coming along well, and they hoping for a good turnout this year with new and returning members.
Below, club members Carmen Cavelli talks about his thoughts on Powerlifting.
