Velma Jackson wins state powerlifting title

The Velma Jackson powerlifting program found major success at the MHSAA 1A state championships recently, with the girls team winning the title and the boys team finishing as state runner-up. 

The Lady Falcons put together a very strong performance, with several great individual showings that gave them the edge over second place Myrtle in the end. 

Out of the 12 weight classes listed, Velma Jackson won four on the girls side, with weight class champions including Jakaiya Fields, Jakayla Page, Da’Kyla Nettles, and Quanydjia Walker. 

The Lady Falcons were also led by top five finishes from Ahmirica Jones, Likiareya Jackson, Mikiya Williamson, Amiya Dixon, and Katia Daughtrey.

Velma Jackson finished with a score of 48, leading Myrtle (45), Vardaman (22), West Union (16), and Noxapater (15) to round out the top five. 

On the boys side, Velma Jackson finished as the state runner-up by one point behind Tupelo Christian, ending their streak of three straight state powerlifting titles. 

Winning their weight classes were Sherman Williamson, Trystin Williams, and Tyshun Willis. Willis, a Mississippi State football signee, broke the all-time 1A deadlift record, deadlifting 710 pounds to top the list. 

Also finishing in the top five in their weight class for the Falcons were Chris Fields, Javion Fields, Rae Williamson, Gredonivan Smith, TJ Jones, Amos Varnado, and Kaden Williams.