DeSoto Parish, LA — A historic first season for a new student-athlete program is making headlines across DeSoto Parish, as Stanley High School celebrates the success of its inaugural powerlifting team.

According to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, School Resource Officer Deputy Lane Burns helped support the launch of the school’s very first powerlifting program this academic year—an effort that quickly turned into a standout success story.

From Idea to Impact

“What started as a few students asking for an opportunity quickly turned into a season of hard work, discipline, and growth,” Burns said, reflecting on the team’s rapid development.

Training began in August, with the team competing in its first meet by December. From there, the athletes advanced through regional competitions and ultimately qualified multiple lifters for the state championship.

State-Level Success in Year One

In an impressive debut season, five Stanley High lifters earned spots at the state level—and all five finished in the Top 10 in Louisiana:

Jade Jones — State Champion (1st Place) with a total lift of 820

Amihya Stephens — 6th Place (570 total)

Colin King — 8th Place (670 total)

Tristin Thomas — 6th Place (1120 total)

Gabe Holloway — 9th Place (955 total)

The achievement marks a significant milestone not only for the athletes but for the school’s athletic program as a whole.

More Than Strength

Burns emphasized that powerlifting goes beyond physical strength, requiring discipline, focus, proper rest, and long-term commitment—qualities the team demonstrated throughout the season.

He also credited team managers Abigail Rogers, Kholey Rivers, and Kreagan Jordan for their behind-the-scenes contributions, as well as school administrators and Sheriff Jayson Richardson for their continued support.

Looking Ahead

With a state champion already crowned and multiple top-10 finishes secured, Stanley High’s first season has set a high bar for the future.

“This is just the beginning,” Burns said. “If this first season is any indication, the future is very bright.”

The success of the program highlights the growing opportunities for student-athletes in DeSoto Parish and underscores the impact of community support in building new initiatives from the ground up.