Mustangs powerlifting competes in state meet

On Friday, March 22, the Nixon-Smiley boys powerlifting team had a school-record seven lifters compete in the THSPA State Championships in Abilene, Texas.

“Well all I can say is thank you to all the boys and their parents for allowing me to coach them this year!” said Coach Eliseo Cano. “It has been a long season but well worth it all. I am so proud beyond what words can describe. All the boys in my powerlifting program did a great job competing and representing Nixon-Smiley High School and the community this year. We received so many compliments about how respectful and hardworking our boys were this year.”

Oscar Acosta competed very well and made history by placing second and getting a silver medal. Oscar become the highest-placing lifter at the state meet in Nixon-Smiley High School powerlifting history.

Cesar Vazquez had the meet of his life and set personal records in a tough 114-pound weight class on his way to placing fifth and medaling.

Jesus Espino also had the meet of his life and set personal records on his way to a fifth place finish and receiving a medal. Jesus also received first-team Academic All-State for all his hard work in the classroom.

“These boys did an amazing job competing. The state meet was full of amazing lifters from around Texas,” Cano said.

Tyler Barrientez placed 13th in the 132 weight class.

Jose Olvera placed 12th in the 148 weight class.

Omar Morales-Navarro placed 12th in the 181 weight class.

Gavino Moreno placed 14th in the 220 weight class.

“These four boys didn’t medal but they competed very well,” Cano said. “I am very proud of all their hard work and dedication they put in this season. Again we made history for Nixon-Smiley boys powerlifting team, we had three boys medal. As a team these boys placed 15th out of 43 teams.

“Please congratulate them if you see them around school or town. Also want to send a big thanks to Paul Kirby for all his help at regionals and the state meet with the boys. Now to work towards bigger things in 2025!”