Brownwood Powerlifter Earns Second Straight State Berth

Lady Lions finish third as a team at Class 4A regional meet

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Leslie Rios, a powerlifter from Brownwood High School, has qualified for the Texas High School Women's Powerlifting Association state meet for the second consecutive year. Rios won the 220-pound weight class at the Class 4A Region II Large School meet, lifting a total of 885 pounds. As a team, the Brownwood Lady Lions finished third at the regional competition.

Why it matters

Powerlifting is a growing sport in Texas high schools, and Rios' repeat qualification for the state meet demonstrates her dedication and skill. The Lady Lions' strong team performance also highlights the strength of the Brownwood program and its ability to develop talented athletes.

The details

Rios won the 220-pound weight class with a total of 885 pounds lifted, including 365 pounds in the squat, 185 pounds in the bench press, and 335 pounds in the deadlift. She placed second at regionals a year ago with 740 pounds lifted. As a team, the Lady Lions generated 23 points, finishing behind Alvarado (56 points) and Lampasas (39 points). Other top Brownwood finishers included Atlanta Olguin (third in the 181s), Allisson Reyna (third in the 198s), and Aliyah Berndt (third in the 242s).

  • The Class 4A state meet is scheduled for Friday, March 20 in Edinburg.
  • Rios placed second at regionals a year ago with 740 pounds lifted.

The players

Leslie Rios

A powerlifter from Brownwood High School who has qualified for the Texas High School Women's Powerlifting Association state meet for the second consecutive year.

Brownwood Lady Lions

The girls' powerlifting team from Brownwood High School, which finished third as a team at the Class 4A Region II Large School meet.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.