Freeman board approves voluntary weightlifting club for grades 7–12

The Freeman School District 33-1 school board approved the creation of a voluntary weightlifting (powerlifting) club for students in grades 7 through 12.

A presenter (speaker 6) said about 10 students signed up late last year and roughly six more have inquired this year. He described the club model used by area schools, noting that many powerlifting programs operate as school clubs rather than as a state‑sanctioned sport, and that meets are typically limited (an early December meet and more intensive January–February meets, with a state meet in March).

The presenter acknowledged uncertainty about insurance and travel logistics for meets and said that, in practice, parents and club organizers often handle travel and meet coordination. "Everyone that I've talked to, even the schools that have really good programs, a lot of that's usually done like any club sport, usually parents," the presenter said. The superintendent and board members asked staff to check insurance and policy details for club travel and external meets.

The board approved the motion to add the weightlifting club as a voluntary, initially unpaid activity for students in grades 7–12. The motion was moved and seconded and carried by voice vote.

Clarifying details: the presenter said the typical competitive season includes an early December meet, several area meets in January–February and a state meet in March. The club could evolve into a paid coaching position if interest and funding materialize in the future; no funding commitment was made at the meeting.