![Baker's weightlifting team won the district title on Friday. [CONTRIBUTED PHOTO]](http://127.0.0.1/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/ghows-DA-8423d5dc-4b94-1233-e053-0100007f8ea6-944e8f50.jpeg)
Every team hopes to win a championship, but some never reach that goal. That is not the case when it comes to Baker School’s boys weightlifting team.
The team won the District 1-1A championship on Friday for the second consecutive year, marking the third victory for the team in four years.
“The guys really have a tremendous work ethic,” said Coach Andy Valmus. “They know what the recipe for success is.”
Seniors John Mateleska and Zach Mason, along with sophomores Jake Miller and Gavin Vaccarello, each were named champion in their respective weight classes. Overall, 17 of the 19 team members qualified for regionals.
“We definitely had some guys step up,” said Valmus. “For seniors to stay with the program and continue to work hard, it says something about their character.”
“The younger guys have seen the success so they know that the magic happens in the weight room,” Valmus added
Valmus said he was proud of the way his team performed.
“Everybody has to do their part, especially when you look at the district,” Valmus said. “I think many teams have Baker set as a benchmark, so it’s rewarding when you see guys from a small school compete and win.”
Now, the team turns its attention to regionals. Valmus believes having spring break the week before won’t affect his guys.
“They know what it takes to be successful and they expect to win,” said Valmus.
The regional meet will be held at Baker School on March 29.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Baker weightlifting wins district title