A Campus Lifting Force
Footnotes from Campus shines a light on collegiate strength. Each package we send carries 1HUND gear, film cameras, and a chance to tell a story. At Midland University, the Powerlifting team has built more than a program. They’ve built a legacy of performance, growth, and impact.
Midland Powerlifting at a Glance
Midland University competes under the Warriors banner, with powerlifting recognized as a varsity sport alongside 30 others in the NAIA. Since its start in 2017, the team has collected 22 team championships and numerous individual titles.
Their presence on the national stage is consistent. At the 2025 USA Powerlifting Collegiate Nationals, both the men’s and women’s teams claimed titles in equipped and raw categories, cementing Midland as a dominant force.
Competitive Storylines
Midland’s rise has been marked by milestones. In 2019, the men’s team captured the University World Cup in Estonia with 41 points, while the women placed fifth. Austin Perkins stood out, earning Best Lifter and setting world junior records in the squat and deadlift.
That momentum continues. At the 2024 Southern Collegiate Cup in Houston, standout results included:
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Danerian Actis (82.5 kg): 725 kg total, Best Lifter
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Adrian Avalos (60 kg): 552.5 kg
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Michael Gonzalez (75 kg): 692.5 kg
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Strong performances from Ethan Haynes (90 kg), Grant Crook (90 kg), Landen Longoria (67.5 kg raw), Gabe McNeill (140 kg raw), and more
The 2024-25 season opened with another statement at the Strong Husker Powerlifting meet in Lincoln. Midland secured the team title with 13 individual wins. Highlights included Jaileel Ross (100 kg) earning Best Lifter with a 787.5 kg total, while the women’s team claimed six raw division victories.
Team Makeup & Coaching
The roster stretches from freshmen to seniors, with athletes competing across weight classes in both equipped and raw divisions. Students come from Nebraska, Texas, Michigan, and beyond, creating a diverse pipeline of talent.
What began as a club of 10 lifters has grown into a program of nearly 60. At the helm is Head Coach Tim Anderson, a former IPF world bench press champion and longtime U.S. national coach. He’s supported by assistants Bryan Busteed and Garrett Parkhill, who have helped shape Midland into a national powerhouse.
Facilities & Growth
With rapid expansion comes new needs. The team has outgrown its 2,400 sq ft training space. Midland is now converting a former retail building into a 7,500 sq ft facility equipped with Eleiko platforms and racks. The upgrade will support the growing roster, sharpen preparation, and increase the visibility of the program.
Why It Matters
Midland’s success shows what happens when leadership, athletes, and resources align. The program has become a model for small colleges stepping onto the international stage. It proves varsity powerlifting can draw talent nationwide and redefine a school’s athletic identity.
Strong Lifts, Stronger Story
Footnotes from Campus captures these moments. For Midland University, the story is written in kilos, chalk, and championship banners.
📲 Follow the journey: @1hund.co
📷 Stay close to the Aztec crew: @midlanduniversitypowerlifting
📝 Watch for more stories from Footnotes from Campus — the campaign continues.
