Help Boston Teens Compete in National Powerlifting

Meet the Team from Urban PowerHouse/Neighborhood House Charter School. Ben, Zay, and Ethan are all in their junior year of high school and live in Boston’s urban neighborhoods.

We are raising funds in order to compete in a national powerlifting competition, Powerlifting America Age Divisional Nationals, in Reno, Nevada at the end of May. The expenses will include: competition fees, transportation, hotel, and food. We are raising $3,000 to help us cover the costs.

This competition is a huge opportunity for us to test our strength, represent our team, and push ourselves to the next level.

This competition is a significant milestone for all of us as we are stepping into a new federation for the first time. Competing at a national level offers us a unique opportunity to showcase our skills on a much larger stage, and it will allow us to demonstrate the hard work and dedication we’ve put into our training.

Ben Tran

I’ve been powerlifting for 3 years now and it’s been a journey of self discovery. When I first started lifting weights, I knew powerlifting would be my ultimate passion. Powerlifting has taught me to be disciplined and keep consistency throughout my journey. It has also taught me to keep my head up even when mistakes and failures occur. The sport has also helped me in chasing after my dream even after I make progress. For example, my goal from a year ago, which was to squat a 492 pound world record squat, has completely changed for this year. Not only is my goal to now squat 551 pounds, I also am working towards making the World’s Team for the United States and traveling to an international competition.

Powerlifting is important to me because it has helped me stay consistent throughout training, helping me balance my life schedule, and keeping me disciplined. The sport has also boosted my confidence where it has allowed me to believe in myself and I learned that if you put your mind to something, you’ll eventually achieve it. This made me more determined and confident to reach higher levels in and outside of the sport. The community I've also grown with throughout the 3 years of competing has also impacted how I progressed.

Zay Reed

Powerlifting has helped me develop discipline. When I arrived at Urban House, the community was very supportive and helped me become more social. Not only was the community incredibly supportive, but many of the members also serve as mentors, even when it comes to my life outside of the gym.

Powerlifting has helped put a stop to all of my unhealthy habits, such as staying up late at night, eating junk food the majority of the week, and sandbagging my back downs and accessories. Now I put more effort into each workout. Overall, powerlifting is a sport that changes you, your mindset, and the way you perceive life. It has helped me better myself.

Ethan Sosa

Powerlifting helps me feel like I have achieved something. It has increased my self-esteem and confidence, and improved my attitude and mentality. I have more discipline and am working towards self improvements in and out of the gym, including my physical health.

It would mean a lot to us if you are able to donate any amount to our fundraiser. We really appreciate your consideration and your support! Even simply sharing the fundraiser could contribute to our cause and would be truly appreciated.