KENNESAW, Ga. | Jul 28, 2025

KSU Club Barbell joins Team USA to compete in international competition.

Eight students from Kennesaw State's Club Barbell team will represent Team USA at the University Cup, hosted during the 22nd IPF/NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championships and 19th IPF/NAPF/FESUPO Pan-American Regional Powerlifting Championships, taking place from July 26 to August 2, 2025, in Georgetown, Grand Cayman Islands.

After placing in the top 4 in the NAPF national competition, KSU Club Barbell earned its spot among elite university teams in the North American Powerlifting Federation’s (NAPF) University Cup. KSU's competitors include Alex Vastey, Jared Miller, Kyle White, Bryson Moore, Austin Roach Delk, Mikel Anderson, Amainosi "Armani" Ekekhide, and Bryan Calderon.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said Jared Miller, captain of the Barbell Club. "No other Barbell club has had a chance like this, and we look forward to showing off all the work we have put in."

Club Barbell  was founded in 2015 and is part of KSU's robust Club Sports program within the Department of Sports and Recreation, which offers sport opportunities for nearly 2,000 students across 25 competitive teams. Club Barbell welcomes students of all weightlifting sports, including Olympic weightlifters, powerlifters, Strongman competitors, CrossFit athletes, and recreational weightlifters.

The Pan American Regional Powerlifting Championships are expected to draw top powerlifters from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Additional schools participating on behalf of Team USA include Ohio State, Grand Canyon, and Fresno State.

"Sports and Recreation is excited for Club Barbell to participate,” said Steve Kinsey, Associate Director, Sport Programs, Department of Sports and Recreation. “They are an amazing representation of our institution." For more information about joining KSU's club sports teams, visit the Club Sports website.

Story by Ashlynn Gates. Photos provided by Club Barbell.