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Bailey, who is 15 years old, weighs 94 pounds and competed in the 97 pound weight class. She competed in three events at both competitions: squat, bench press and deadlift.

Over 30 schools participated in the state tournament, which was held on March 1 at Powers Catholic in Flint, where Terebinski took first place in her division. She needed a total of 365 to qualify for nationals, and she lifted a total of 410 (squat -160, bench press - 65, and deadlift - 185).

At Nationals, which were held from April 4-6 in Kalamazoo, Terebinski lifted 425 pounds (135 squat, bench press 80, and deadlift 210-a personal best).

Until the end of last year, Terebinski had no intentions of becoming a member of the powerlifting team.

"My volleyball coach told me that I needed to get stronger in the off-season if I wanted to make varsity," said Terebinski. "So, I went up to the lifting room to try weight-lifting.

"I couldn't even lift the bar at first."

Terebinski soon began lifting weights on a regular basis in the school's weight room. Although it took awhile for her to build up her strength, she soon realized how much she enjoyed lifting.

"I fell in love with it," said Terebinski. "It gets me in better shape and gives me more stamina."

While lifting one day after school, Terebinski was approached by Brian Birchmeier, the junior varsity coach for the powerlifting team. Birchmeier took Bailey under his wing, trained her, and encouraged her to join the powerlifting team.

After her second competition, Terebinski was moved up to the varsity level, where she joined five other girls. She began training for the state and national competitions five days a week with varsity coach, Barb Zintsmaster.

When asked how her parents felt about her decision to begin powerlifting, Terebinski said they were very surprised at first, but have become huge supporters.