Utah State Powerlifting

MEET ENTRY FORMS ARE LIVE (this includes our 9 & under youth deadlift)!! Link in bio.

After a courageous two-year battle, we lost Meesh’s brother, Michael, to stage 4 non-smoker lung cancer in December 2024. But his story, his strength, and his spirit are far from over.

Michael wasn’t just family—he was the spark. His introduction to powerlifting is what inspired Meesh to step onto the platform in the first place. From day one, he was one of our biggest supporters—cheering louder, believing harder, and showing up in every way that mattered.

In his honor, we’ve renamed our summer meet:

MADD MIKE LIVES

“Madd Mike” was a nickname born on the football field back in his high school days—a name that stuck because of the intensity, passion, and heart he brought to everything he did. When he began sharing his diagnosis, he created the hashtag —a statement, not just a phrase. A mindset. A fight.

The logo and colors for this meet come directly from that journey. Designed by one of his closest friends, this was the same logo Michael wore proudly to every treatment during his first clinical trial. It represents resilience, brotherhood, and the refusal to back down.

This meet is more than just numbers on the board.

It’s about showing up.
It’s about lifting for something bigger than yourself.
It’s about honoring those we’ve lost, those still fighting, and the strength we carry because of them.

So whether you’re chasing a PR, stepping on the platform for the first time, or lifting in memory of someone you love—this is your moment.

Join us. Register. Compete. Remember.

Let’s pack the platform, bring the energy, and make sure one thing is clear:

Madd Mike Lives.

Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026

Location: Valhalla Strength Gym

1375 S 500 E #121-123, American Fork, UT 84003

Time: Lifting starts at 9am sharp. Rules briefing at 8am.

Doors Open: 7:30am

Spectator Fee: $10 cash or Venmo only. 13 & under are free.

For any questions, please contact the APO Utah State Chairs/Meet Directors:

Michèle (Meesh) Russell-Mecham: 916-505-7073
Scott Mecham: 801-330-0084
[email protected]