USA Powerlifting Postpones 2020 Collegiate National Powerlifting Championships

March 13, 2020

Anchorage, Alaska – USA Powerlifting will be postponing the 2020 USA Powerlifting Collegiate National Championships after the Pennsylvania State Government announced a ban on large events. Originally scheduled for April 3, 2020 in State College, Pennsylvania, a new event date is still being explored at this time.

This decision has been made with the health and safety of USA Powerlifting members, volunteers, and supporters as a top priority and to align with government guidelines.

At this time numerous Universities, States, and Local governments have made definitive decisions to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. USA Powerlifting is following the guidelines laid out by these institutions, including The CDC, and has made the decision to postpone the Championships until further notice.

Yesterday, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf and the Department of Health announced the state’s decision to ban public events of 250 people or more and implement social distancing protocols. Championship Director Steve Mann has been working closely with the EC and local officials and is diligently rescheduling the event and communicating with teams and athletes. Updates on Collegiate Nationals will be sent to the registered athletes and coaches when more information becomes available.

At this time, the situation is fluid and USA Powerlifting cannot set a definitive reschedule date. Early to late summer is being explored, but ultimately the organization must make the best decision that protects the health and wellbeing of all members, and that is in line with government and University protocols. All athletes entered in Collegiate Nationals will remain eligible even if the postponed date is after they graduate due to the circumstances.

All remaining USA Powerlifting National Championships remain planned and scheduled at this time. As stated in the previous release, the Executive Committee is consistently monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will continue sharing information as it becomes available.

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