Barbell battle in Los Lunas High School lunchroom

LOS LUNAS — In a matter of several hours Friday, the cafeteria at Los Lunas High School went from ladles and hair nets to barbells and singlets.

Shortly after B-lunch ended at about 12:40 p.m., the rush began to transform the lunchroom into a weight room in time for the Los Lunas Powerlifting Invitational.

“There is a lot going on — it takes all hands-on deck,” said Nathanial Charley, LLHS powerlifting coach.

To get the equipment, enough for five competition racks, moved from the weight room in a separate building, maintenance crews and athletes from many sports teams at the school did the heavy lifting.

“It was a big community effort from our staff; everyone helped out,” Charley said.

The effort came from a variety of areas — an LLHS shop class, which got platforms ready, Valencia donated mats, students trained as spotters and teachers and staff received certification by New Mexico Activities Association for various roles.

In addition, Charley sought out the state’s top powerlifting officials, “so that our kids are coached up well on the technique,” as judges explain what they may have done incorrectly.

When Valencia opted for another meet, the contest turned into a dual between the Tigers and Belen Eagles.

“It’s a cool environment,” said Chris Peralta, BHS coach, as students and fans from both schools crowded into the room, many watching from the balcony above.

“We battle against each other, but other than that we’re good allies,” Peralta said about the two schools and his friendship with Charley.

“Getting Belen and Los Lunas back together is a good thing,” Charley said.

The barbell battle was enthusiastic and close. The Eagles captured the boys’ division, 72-68, while the BHS girls prevailed 64-53.

In only its second season as a sanctioned high school sport in New Mexico, powerlifting’s popularity is on the rise.

“I think it’s the fastest growing sport, even more so on the girl’s side,” said Peralta, who has more than 30 athletes on the team. “It’s catching on. We’re excited.”

Numbers at LLHS have exploded, with nearly 90 participants. That includes 23 girls, 20 more than last season.

According to Charley, prospective lifters ask, “How can I get in shape? Can I be a part of this?”

For many, this is their first experience in athletics.

“Pretty soon, we can’t kick them out of practice,” the Los Lunas coach said. “They are loving it.”

Athletes will continue to try to improve their lifts in hopes of qualifying for the New Mexico Powerlifting Championships April 4-5 at the Rio Rancho Events Center.