Plate by Plate: Building a dynasty in Gautier girls powerlifting

GAUTIER, Miss. (WLOX) -The Gautier girls’ powerlifting team has the makings of a dynasty, winning not one, not two, but three straight state titles.

The first in 2022, being the first-ever state title for Gautier High School.

“To see that we accelerated our first year, our second year, and then to the third, and we’re getting three rings? That’s amazing,” said senior Destiny Costict.

For many on the team, they chalk up their continued success to the continued growth, bond, and sisterhood they’ve developed.

“The unity that they always have. I don’t think there’s ever been a moment where we have a bad practice or anyone was feeling a little bit off,” said head coach Sebastian Vera. “They’re always right there supporting them and speaking highly of each other and pushing each other to do their best. So, really they carry everything on their own, they keep everything afloat.”

“Being able to say we did it three times and I didn’t even think before that I would join a team like this with the bond we have,” said senior Kianna High. “It’s just really special because these girls are like my sisters, like a second family.”

“I get closer and closer to my teammates every year and it’s really special to have a team that you can relate to like that because I feel like without that relation, the team isn’t the same as other sports,” added senior Joy Mims.

Powerlifting is unique in it is both a team and individual sport. For some other Lady Gator seniors, they say they’re happy to have achieved their individual goals together.

“I went through so much,” said senior Leona Burtt. “What I like to say is I was insecure about my strength you know? But knowing that I won it gives me that security like, ‘Hey I did that. Alongside my team, we did that.’”

“It really means a lot for me especially with it being my senior year,” added senior Denaisha Champion. “It’s my last chance to do everything and I was able to come and achieve my goals.”

For others on the team like junior Ashiya Hicks, she’s hoping to make it four straight and is taking lessons learned from the senior class into next season.

“I look up to them like I want to win next year,” said Hicks. “I want to have the same feeling they had winning state their senior year, I want to have the same thing. "

Powerlifting can be a sport of failure, but the seniors have a message for those who will take the stage after them.

“Never give up,” said senior Aubree Dillon. “If you give up and look backward it’s like you’re standing in your own way. If you keep looking forward and count on those who always have your back, you can accomplish whatever you need to.”

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