None of the Sunlake High girls weightlifters grew up dreaming of pumping iron, but the Seahawks all agree the activity has positively changed their lives forever.

“I was very timid before joining the team,” said senior Celina Romera, who has been on the squad for three years. “I wasn’t very confident in any part of my life. As I grew and got stronger I realized what I can do when I set my mind to it. “It’s not just the physical benefits...