10-04-2025
Arnold's Michael Southerland is lifting the standard
PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WMBB) – Arnold High School sophomore Michael Southerland has been embraced by the Marlin weightlifting team, where a sense of belonging and mentorship has helped fuel his growth in the sport.
Southerland, who began weightlifting before arriving at Arnold, was immediately welcomed into the program.
Senior Ian Whaler took the newcomer under their wing from the start.
'Michael first came in, and immediately, me and Connor brought him to our rack to bench with us, clean and jerk, everything,' Whaler said. 'He's just a fun person to be around. We take him to breakfast. He's part of the team.'
Since joining the Marlins, Southerland has been supported by his teammates, both on and off the platform.
Nicknames and words of encouragement have been offered to him regularly, reinforcing a positive team atmosphere. 'They always call me some awesome nicknames and say, 'Let's go, Mike!'' Southerland said.
Over the past season, Southerland's dedication paid off when he earned a spot at the All-County meet. Along the way, he also discovered a personal favorite lift, the clean and jerk.
Though his journey is still in its early stages, Southerland has expressed excitement about what lies ahead.
With two more years of high school eligibility remaining, continued progress is anticipated as he builds on the foundation that has already been set.
Southerland's story stands as a testament to the impact of team culture and mentorship in high school athletics, where strength is found not just in lifting, but in the people lifting other up alongside the platform.
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