Boys Weightlifting Concludes with State Finalist

Will Kriby – PCHS Bulletin 

The 2024 boys’ weightlifting season officially ended at the FHSAA state championships in Lakeland on Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20. Parrish was represented by senior Chase Eichorn who competed in the 119-pound weight class and took part in both the Traditional and Olympic Championships.  

Prior to his final high school competition, Eichorn said that his goal for states “was to lift all personal records and hopefully get 6th place or higher.” Eichorn finished the weekend 7th in the Traditional category and 10th in the Olympic category. Still a successful finish for the Bulls' first state qualifier in school history.

Although his high school career is over, Eichorn said, “My goals for the future are to still lift and get stronger once I graduate.”  

Coach Cody McNear holds high praise for Eichorn, stating, “Chase is an incredibly humble, hardworking young man and a superb athlete." 

The team demonstrated success previously in their district competition, with many top finishes including a 2nd place finish from Shane Laughlin, 3rd place finishes from Bryant Chen and Will Carlisle, and a 4th place finish from Kyle Ni in their respective weight classes, all in the traditional category.  

As Coach Cody McNear looks back on the season, he shares, “I think we faired pretty well because of the number of lifters we had, also without anyone competing in the last three weight classes (219,238, Unlimited). We had no big guys.” McNear is excited about next year as he says, “I’m looking forward to improving.”  

Overall, a very successful season for the Bulls’ lifters.