AUSTIN, Texas — Leander ISD will be well represented at the 2023 Special Olympics of Texas Winter Games. Ten powerlifters are competing for gold medals, as members of the Leander Lazers.
"We go to compete," Lazers assistant coach Scott Williamson said. "But we're also here to have fun."
"I like powerlifting because I like to keep working out to reach my goals and master them and build muscles," Lazers athlete Braeden Arp said.
This year's Winter Games take place in Lakeway and will be well attended by some of the strongest young athletes in the state.
"We understand there's going to be 130-plus lifters from around the state," Lazers assistant coach Kelly McMahan said.
"My goal for them is to see their potential," Lazers head coach Allison Goewey said. "See what they can do and how they can accomplish it."
Regardless of the outcome at the Winter Games, the goal for this team has always been more about lifting spirits than lifting weights.
"Powerlifting is a very singular sport," Goewey said. "But when these guys come into the weight room, I want them to remember the friendships they've made."
"They make me feel appreciated," Arp said.
The Special Olympics of Texas Winter Games begin on Feb. 17 and offer powerlifting, volleyball, golf, cycling and floorball.