By Bella Kolvek
Ever since athletes left school last May, excitement for their 2024-2025 seasons has grown. Plans for the summer included open gyms, camps, and most importantly, weight lifting. Louisville’s activities director, Kaleb Walker, was contacted by Xplosive Edge, to help Louisville athletes reach their full potential by getting stronger and faster. Xplosive Edge is a weightlifting program in Elkhorn, Nebraska that is passionate about helping athletes maximize their athletic capabilities while reducing injuries. This program was a success for all teams, especially the high school volleyball team.
For freshman Noelle Larson, weight lifting had always been a part of her life, even having her own lifting equipment in her house. When it was announced that Louisville would be getting a new weights program, she was excited.
“I knew that the days were going to be challenging, but I also knew that as an athlete in the weight room, it’s where you challenge yourself the most," said Larson.
Larson saw her work in the weight room pay off by earning a varsity spot on the volleyball team this year.
“When I was in middle school I thought varsity as a freshman was totally out of my reach, but through the hard work I put into this program, it came to me,” said Larson.
Sophomore Brylee Peterson wasn’t new to Xplosive Edge as her club volleyball also used it to help benefit her team.
“I’ve done Xplosive Edge for about a year now… it has been a great experience. I made varsity in my school sports this year because of my commitment to weights,” said Peterson.
Peterson believes that Xplosive Edge has not only helped her physically but also mentally with tough competitions that come her way. Peterson was awarded Lifter of the Year following her hard work and dedication throughout the summer.
The Louisville Lions volleyball team had an unpredictable season, beating teams with a winning streak of 5 years against them. Of course, these wins didn’t come easy but with the help of a new weights program Xplosive Edge, these athletes have changed their trajectory.
“ It made us better because it has brought back the attention to athletics and our strengths,” said sophomore Carly Haun.
Coaches, players, and spectators have seen the impact this program has had on Louisville’s strengths. With this program being a part of daily life, there are sure to be more wins on the way.