Stevens Weightlifting delivered an impressive performance at University Nationals, continuing to build momentum as a rising force on the collegiate stage with a strong performance on the platform. Every lifter stepped up, producing a top 20 placing in the nation, stepping up with confidence, strong totals, and composure on the platform.
Leading the way for Stevens on the weightlifting side were Ashley Muliawan, Jake Suma, Luke Hendricks, and Coach Ryan Erasmus, each delivering impressive outings that reflected both preparation and resilience. Coach Erasmus started with a strong performance with a third-place finish across the board in snatch, clean and jerk, and overall total for his age and weight group. Followed by that was Jake Suma, fighting through each phase of the competition and adding to the team's overall success with clutch lifts when it mattered most, capturing a seventh-place finish, rising above stiff competition. Both Ashley Muliawan and Luke Hendricks rounded out the weightlifting team's performance on the last day. Muliawan showcased excellent technique and consistency across both the snatch and clean and jerk, putting together her strongest competition of the year. This hard work, it led to a clutch 18th placing in the nation. Hendricks rounded out the squad with a powerful performance, attacking each lift with two personal record attempts and grabbing one on the snatch. The PR obtained led to a 17th-place finish in the nation.
On the Stevens Powerlifting side of the bar, Christopher Longo and Jason Risso stood in the spotlight to capture outstanding lifts and proudly represented Stevens Lifting. Starting off was Jason Rizzo, going eight for nine, capturing a 302.5-kilogram total, which allowed him to capture the University National gold medal, placing first in each squat, bench, and deadlift. Pulling double his body weight showed the true strength and hard work from Jason. Following was Christopher Longo, who went eight for nine, producing an outstanding 307.5-kilogram total. The lifts showed true dedication to the Stevens Lifting team and proved the hard work he put in the gym day in and day out.
Beyond the individual efforts, the Stevens lifters demonstrated depth, composure, and a unified competitive edge throughout the meet. The platform was filled with energy as each athlete contributed to a weekend defined by progress and upward trajectory. Overall, Stevens Lifting delivered an impressive showing at University Nationals, marked by personal bests, strong performances across the board, and a clear indication that the program is continuing to rise among the top collegiate teams in the country.
