The Kiwanis Club of Alexandria learned about powerlifting from Duane Urbina, a coach and official who has dedicated 41 years to the sport, from 1986-2026.

Urbina currently coaches Sacred Heart Convent School and has coached two World Champions during his career. His lifters have achieved more than four World Records, 30 National Records, more than 50 State Records and 30 Louisiana State Championships.

He is also known for coaching successful powerlifting programs at ASH and Sacred Heart.

The club met several Sacred Heart team members, including Elisa LaHaye, a senior and 123-pound team captain and four-year lifter; Aubrey Launey, a junior and 97-pound three-year lifter and 2026 State Champion; Gavin Patin, a senior and 148-pound four-year lifter, 2025 State Champion and 2026 State Runner-Up; and Liam Kincanon, a junior and 165-pound three-year lifter, 2026 State Champion and two-time North American Champion.

The students demonstrated proper techniques and positions for squats, bench press and deadlifts. Urbina also discussed the rules and details involved in competitive powerlifting.

The girls’ powerlifting program began in 1992, while the boys’ program began in 1983 and originally focused around the football team.