A record seven La Porte High School powerlifters have earned berths in the 2026 State Championships following outstanding performances at Regionals. 

Dehvin Frank led the way by being named Regional Champion and setting a new Region 4 Division 1 deadlift record with a 615-pound lift in the 165-pound weight class. Izzy Burke and Samantha Gilder also captured the Regional Championships, with Gilder additionally earning top honors in the Bench Press event. 

Other state qualifiers include Nehemiah Louisy, who placed sixth in his weight class, and Kevin Rojas de Ordonez, who finished eighth. Ariana Castaneda and Nadia Elabdallah will also represent the Bulldogs at the state level after strong regional performances. 

Both teams are coached by Beck Neal. 

The Texas High School Women’s Powerlifting Association State Meet is set for March 18–21 at Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg. The Texas High School Powerlifting Association State Championships will be held March 27–28 at the Taylor County Expo Center in Abilene.