Seven middle schoolers were drawn to the same place and the same ambition through powerlifting.

Their journey to nationals began at DHS, and in mid-March, they traveled to Appleton, Wisconsin, to compete in nationals. 

On the first day, Aron Starlin and freshman Milo Drehs both achieved peak performance. Starlin beat all platform PRs, getting three different personal records.

“I was in my head during my second attempt,” he said. “Squatting was a mental block. After achieving my third attempt, it became known to me that I had to do it. I could not think about it, I just had to lift.”

Drehs was Derby’s first freshman to qualify for nationals, improving to the point that he became one of the most advanced powerlifters. 

During the meet, he was injured, he suffered from a rib injury and decided to preserve himself for his squat attempts.

He didn’t do it for the placement, he did it to become the best version of himself.“

I felt humble and smart in my decision that I made today. It was versatile with my injury, but it still became one of the proudest decisions I’ve made in powerlifting.” Drehs said.

Then junior Macy Renberger competed. She has been one of DHS’s top powerlifters. She’s a state record holder and beat personal records every single time she competed.

She placed fifth at nationals in her weight class, giving her a place in the podium. 

“Placing was a very cool experience. I was not planning on placing but hoping for my best,” she said. “I was struggling with some injuries, but with God’s plan, I am very grateful for the experience and for my coaches, Madi Jenkins and Mitchell Welch. They have supported us the whole way through.”

The powerlifters advanced to nationals after competing in regionals in October. Along with Drehs, Renberger and Starlin, junior Addy Greer, junior France Cueto and senior Carson Griffin competed.