This year, we had two state qualifiers: Senior Luke Estrada and Junior Jaden Araujo. Both athletes showcased incredible dedication and strength throughout the 2025 season.
Luke's powerlifting journey highlights the importance of training and patience.
Freshman year: It was a learning experience; Luke did not qualify for regionals.
Sophomore year: Luke earned a spot at regionals, but unfortunately, he "bombed out" by missing all three of his squat attempts.
Junior year: He came back stronger, making it to the State Meet and securing an impressive 3rd place finish in the 148-weight class.
This year: Luke faced another challenge when he suffered a shoulder injury. It delayed his training, but he powered through with consistent training and patience. Heading into the meet, his opening lifts projected him to finish 5th, but in true Luke fashion, he rose to the occasion, pushed through, and ended up with 3rd place medal once again. You should have seen him after he lifted his last deadlift knowing that his place was secured!
Luke’s THSPA Division 3 State Championship Meet Results:
Squat: 550 pounds
Bench: 340 pounds
Deadlift: 535 pounds
Total: 1,425 pounds (his personal best)
Final: 3rd place in the 148-weight class
As for Jaden, this was his first experience at a state meet. State meets are fast-paced and demanding, and unfortunately, Jaden "bombed out" on squat, which meant he missed his three lifts due to technique or depth errors and couldn’t continue with the rest of the competition. Although understandably disappointed, Jaden maintained a mature outlook and was determined to learn from the experience. He told us, "I'm bummed that I bombed out at my first state meet, but I am using this as a learning opportunity and will come back stronger next year." That kind of mindset is what makes a true powerlifter.
Jaden had an outstanding season overall, earning three 1st place medals, one 3rd place medal, and placing 7th in the 114 weight class for Region 5 Division 3. He’s already looking ahead to the 2026 State Meet, and I have no doubt he’ll come back stronger and more focused than ever.
Both Luke and Jaden have had incredible seasons, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work, growth, and perseverance. They’ve both proven that success isn’t just about results, but about how you handle setbacks and challenges along the way!
Thank you for your continued support of our team! We look forward to what the future holds for these athletes and the rest of the powerlifting program!
-Coach Gomez and Coach Armentrout