Pahrump Valley High School senior Matt Lopez has achieved a significant milestone in his weightlifting journey by joining the prestigious 1800-pound club. This accomplishment, which combines the total weight lifted in bench press, squat, clean, and deadlift, is a testament to his dedication, hard work, and determination. Matt’s journey in weightlifting began in his freshman year.
“I started lifting my freshman year, but I didn’t really take it seriously until my sophomore year. I began setting goals like 900, 1200, and 1500 pounds, with the ultimate goal of reaching 1800 pounds,” Matt recalls. This goal motivated him to push his limits and train diligently both in school and on his own. “I lifted every day during school and sometimes went at night with my older brothers, Andrew and Jake.”
Jake Lopez, Matt’s older brother, has been a significant inspiration throughout his weightlifting journey. “Jake pushed me to lift heavy and reach my goals,” Matt says. This encouragement played a crucial role in Matt’s achievements.
Matt’s training regimen has been rigorous and consistent, focusing on the four key lifts required for the 1800-pound club: bench press, squat, clean, and deadlift. “I benched 315 pounds, squatted 515 pounds, cleaned 245 pounds, and deadlifted 730 pounds,” he proudly states. Notably, Matt broke the school record for deadlifting, previously set by Jared Mudge in 2020 at 677 pounds.
This past week (July 29th and 30th), Matt officially joined the 1800-pound club. “I hit 1800 pounds on Monday and Tuesday,” he says. The accomplishment was a moment of great pride for Matt and his friends, who were all hyped up for him. “It was an awesome feeling,” he adds.
“He actually lifted a total of 1805 pounds,” his mom, Stephanie Avena shared proudly. “But who’s counting?”
Coach Mike Colucci, who has been guiding Matt since his freshman year, speaks highly of Matt’s dedication and work ethic. “Matt is a kid that came in as a freshman with a lot of potential. He slapped 225 on and came close to making the 1200 club as a freshman,” Colucci recalls. “He’s always trying to get extra work in, lifting during lunch and with his brothers.” Despite his success, Matt continues to set new goals. “For bench, I want to reach 345 pounds by the end of my senior year and clean 275 pounds. Those are my new targets,” he shares.
Matt’s journey has not been without setbacks. During the football season last year, he broke his leg, which affected his squat and deadlift routines. However, he continued to bench and clean, demonstrating resilience and determination. Balancing training with football and academic responsibilities has been challenging, but Matt prioritizes his schoolwork. “School comes first, then everything else. Good grades are essential to play sports and lift weights,” he explains.
Matt credits his family, especially his brothers, for their unwavering support. “My family encourages me to keep going and to be safe,” he says. His weightlifting coach, Mike Colucci, has also been instrumental in his success. “Colucci has pushed me since my freshman year,” Matt notes. Colucci emphasizes the importance of effort and consistency. “It’s not about the weight on the bar; it’s about your attitude and effort. Matt has made weightlifting a part of his lifestyle.”
When asked about advice for other high school students aiming to break records or join the 1800-pound club, Matt emphasizes the importance of hard work and safety. “Work hard, but be safe. Your sports season is more important than lifting weights,” he advises.
Weightlifting has had a significant impact on Matt’s life beyond the gym. It has boosted his confidence and made him more dominant on the football field. “Being strong makes me stand out as a player in both football and basketball,” he explains. The intensity and camaraderie of weightlifting, especially in the summer with his friends, is something Matt cherishes. “The hype and support from my friends make it the best feeling,” he shares.
Looking ahead, Matt plans to continue pushing his limits in weightlifting while balancing his commitments to football, basketball, and golf. His dedication to training and his ability to overcome challenges have set a strong foundation for future success.
Coach Colucci believes Matt’s achievements are a result of his hard work and consistency. “There’s no luck in putting up that kind of weight. It’s from grinding away and adding a pound a day. It’s pennies in the piggy bank,” he says.
Matt Lopez’s journey to the 1800-pound club is a story of perseverance, hard work, and the power of support from family and mentors. His achievements inspire not only his peers at Pahrump Valley High School but also the broader community, showcasing what can be accomplished with determination and hard work.
