Samuel Ross signs powerlifting scholarship with University of Alabama in Huntsville

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —

Samuel Ross, a Warren Central High School graduate and two-time state champion, has signed a collegiate powerlifting scholarship with the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

Ross recently made his decision official, earning a spot on the UAH powerlifting team after a decorated career at Warren Central.

“I like their program for my majors and they have a former USA Powerlifting assistant coach who is coaching the team, plus the nice facilities made me want to join,” Ross said.

Ross began powerlifting four years ago as a freshman at Warren Central. By his junior season, he had developed into one of the top lifters in the state, winning a state championship in the 220-pound weight class.

Ross totaled 1,438 pounds between the squat, bench press and deadlift to capture his first state championship. He returned the following year and successfully defended his title with a 1,465-pound total.

“The first year was surreal, but the second year I was just trying to get it over with,” Ross said with a smile.

Ross’ athletic accomplishments extended beyond powerlifting. He also helped Warren Central’s football team capture its first state championship in 31 years in 2025. Ross earned All-District and All-County honors for his performance on the football field.

Now preparing for the collegiate level, Ross has set an even bigger goal for himself in powerlifting. He said he wants to eventually become the best lifter in the world in his weight class.

Ross credited his family, coach and teammates for helping him reach this point in his career.

“I want to thank my mom and my dad, my coach Kacey Myers, plus my teammates,” Ross said.

Ross is the son of Andrew Ross and Katrina Ross.

Ross will compete at nationals in South Dakota. He plans to major in aerospace engineering at UAH.