Special Olympics Powerlifting is about much more than bench presses and dead lifts. It is about barriers, perseverance and success. Training, determination and attitude determine the fine line between success and failure. The bar may test an athlete’s physical abilities, but an internal desire to improve — to not settle for less — is the drive behind the strain and dedication of the sport. Special Olympics powerlifters are eligible to compete in two lifts: the bench press and the dead lift, or in combination of the two lifts.
As in all Special Olympics sports, athletes are grouped in competition divisions according to ability level, age and gender.
Athletes must be at least 16 years old to participate.
| Coaches | Jim Downs – Head Coach Joyce Plaxen – Team Manager |
| Season Dates & Times | Practices: Every Sunday, 11:30 to 1:30, in separate one-hour practice sessions starting 8/18/2024 thru 10/13/2024. Coach will assign athletes to a practice session. Qualifiers: TBD closer to season’s start State Games: Fall Fest, 10/19/2024, Mount St. Mary’s University, Emmitsburg MD |
| Medical & Volunteer Expiration Date | Sport’s State Games competition date The expiration date on an athlete’s Medical form, or a Volunteer’s certification, must be after the above date to participate in the upcoming season. Check athlete status here. Check volunteer status here. |
No special equipment is required, acceptable attire for practices are shorts, sweats, t-shirts, tennis shoes and knee high socks.
One-piece lifting suites (singlets) will be provided for competitions.
Location: Golds Gym Rockville (Wintergreen Plaza), 835 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
Timing: Practice occurs every Sunday morning
Activities: Special Olympics powerlifters are eligible to compete in two lifts: the bench press and the dead lift, or in combination of the two lifts. We will accept as many athletes into this program as our coaching staff can support with “first come/first served”.
Howard County Qualifier Date TBA
Mount St. Mary’s in Mid-October
Athlete must attend practice regularly and compete in the Howard County Qualifier to be eligible for State Competition.
Powerlifters can participate in other SOMO sports so long as the athlete can maintain full practice participation in all of their sports.
As in all Special Olympics sports, athletes are grouped in competition divisions according to ability level, age, and gender.
