By Nina Winter / Staff Writer

Missouri Valley College takes pride in being one of the very few colleges nationwide with a competitive powerlifting and weightlifting team. The teams have achieved outstanding results in the past and now set even more ambitious goals for the future.

The MoVal powerlifting and weightlifting teams have undergone significant changes in recent seasons. However, this year, under the guidance of new coaching staff comprising Coaches Jianping Ma and Danny Capps, the Vikings are pushing harder than ever before.

Currently, more than 20 male and female MoVal students, nearly double the number from the previous year, are part of these lifting teams. Coach Ma is traveling worldwide to recruit weight sports athletes and assemble an elite team at MVC. Once these athletes commit to Missouri Valley College, Coach Ma and Coach Capps provide comprehensive training and mental support. MoVal lifters receive individual practice schedules, along with guidance on maintaining a healthy diet as college athletes and managing their mental well-being, both crucial for athletic success.

The program’s elite status has been demonstrated in the past. In March 2022, Viking OT Reid secured 2nd place in the nation at the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio, in the snatch and clean and jerk categories. This year, seven powerlifters have already qualified for the nationals, and Coach Capps aims for at least seven more qualifiers.

While the weightlifting program is still in its developmental stages, it is actively seeking supporters who share their vision and want to help the team achieve its goals and more. Both our women and men have at least three upcoming meetings with the possibility of qualifying for the national championship.

Fans can find the schedule and more information on the Missouri Valley College athletic website at http://www.valleywillroll.com. As the team prepares for their competitions, they are also organizing fundraisers. To support the Vikings, simply scan the QR code below.