New Albany mom and coach team up for weightlifting journey

Chelsea Milligan and Dave Belli find shared passion for powerlifting

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:27am

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A highly stylized, abstract illustration featuring a weightlifting barbell repeated in a grid pattern, rendered in a bold, neon color palette and high-contrast silkscreen technique to capture the energy and empowerment of the story.A community-driven powerlifting journey inspires personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.New Albany Today

Chelsea Milligan, a mother of four from New Albany, Indiana, took a break from her job as a registered nurse. When she tried to reenter the workforce, she found it difficult. That's when she discovered powerlifting and teamed up with local coach Dave Belli to pursue the sport together.

Why it matters

Milligan's story highlights how powerlifting can provide a transformative outlet for people looking to make a positive change in their lives, especially during challenging transitions. Her partnership with Belli also demonstrates the power of community and mentorship in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals.

The details

After taking a break from nursing, Milligan struggled to reenter the job market. She then discovered powerlifting and connected with local coach Dave Belli, who has been training her. Together, they have been on a weightlifting journey, with Milligan making impressive gains in her strength and confidence.

  • Milligan took a break from her nursing job last year.
  • She discovered powerlifting and connected with coach Dave Belli.

The players

Chelsea Milligan

A mother of four from New Albany, Indiana who took a break from her job as a registered nurse and discovered a passion for powerlifting.

Dave Belli

A local coach in New Albany who has been training Milligan in powerlifting and helping her on her fitness journey.

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What they’re saying

“I never heard back, and I never heard back.”

— Chelsea Milligan, Registered Nurse

“Seeing the progress Chelsea has made in the gym has been incredibly rewarding. She's become so strong and confident.”

— Dave Belli, Powerlifting Coach

What’s next

Milligan plans to compete in her first powerlifting competition later this year with the support of her coach, Dave Belli.

The takeaway

Milligan's journey shows how powerlifting can provide a transformative outlet for people facing life transitions, and how community-based mentorship can be instrumental in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals.