The Panther powerlifting team opened their season Jan. 14 at the Bill and Virginia Williams Special Events Center with the Panther Invitational meet. The Panthers placed sixth overall as a team, with senior Justin Sanchez leading the way with a second-place finish in the 198-pound class.

Nearly every member of the young team set personal records.

Four freshmen lifted for the Panthers, with Angel Mendoza placing fifth in the 132-pound class.

Jayden Davenport finished ninth at 165 pounds, Allan Leyva took 11th at 198 pounds and Jose Baeza placed 12th in the same class.

Five sophomores placed as Leeland Ibarra’s led the way with a fifth-place finish at 148 pounds.

Andres Sotelo was sixth at 275 pounds, Christian Dominguez seventh at 148 pounds, Omar Benavides eighth in the 181-pound class and Fabian Silva eighth at 165 pounds.

Seniors Jovanny Hernandez and Jose Hernandez competed in the 181-pound class, with Jovanny placing fifth and Jose sixth at 181 pounds.

The Panthers will compete next on Saturday, Jan. 28 in Crane.