By Lily Keeley

In a hard-fought weightlifting competition, Ponte Vedra High School demonstrated impressive individual performances but ultimately fell short to Nease High School, which dominated the meet by taking home victories in nearly every weight class. The match showcased the fierce spirit of competition and the challenges of a high-pressure event, as athletes pushed their limits on the lifting platform. 

The meet, held at Ponte Vedra High School’s gym, saw the visiting team take an early lead, claiming victories across all but five weight classes. With more athletes in the field, Nease’s depth proved to be a significant advantage, outpacing the Sharks smaller squad. 

PVHS was able to secure victories in five weight classes, with standout performances from several athletes. The highlight of the day came in the fiercely contested 101-pound weight class, where Junior Juliana Mannino of PVHS lifted her way to the top, winning her division with impressive strength and technique. 

“I’ve been training so hard for this, and I knew it was my time to shine. It’s unfortunate the team didn’t come out on top, but we’ll keep working.” 

Juliana Mannino (11)

However, the competition wasn’t without its hurdles for the Sharks team. Five athletes from the school were unable to make weight, a setback that left the team with fewer competitors than originally anticipated. To make matters worse, three PVHS lifters were “starched out”—a term used when athletes fail to successfully complete their lifts, leaving them disqualified from that portion of the competition. 

Nease High School’s dominance on the day was marked by their larger roster and consistent performance across multiple classes. Their athletes swept through nearly all the remaining weight classes, showing off their depth and preparation. While PVHS’s wins were a bright spot, they ultimately could not overcome the strength in numbers that Nease brought to the table. 

Though the team result was disappointing for the Sharks, there were bright spots in individual performances. Mannino’s victory in the 101-pound division was a testament to her hard work and dedication, as she stood head and shoulders above the competition. “It feels amazing,” Mannino said after her win. “I’ve been training so hard for this, and I knew it was my time to shine. It’s unfortunate the team didn’t come out on top, but we’ll keep working.” 

Final Results 

• Ponte Vedra High School: 5 weight classes
• Nease High School Wins: all other weight classes
• Key Standout: Juliana Mannino (101-pound class)
•  Challenges for Ponte Vedra High School: 5 athletes didn’t make weight, 3 disqualified for failed lifts

Pictured: Juliana Mannino in weightliftng competition