Why is the WHSPA having a Powerlifting America sanctioned state event?

For years USA Powerlifting was the only drug-free choice for powerlifting in the United States, and it was the only way to compete at an international level.  Due to different beliefs about how drug testing should be completed, the International Powerlifting Federation and USA Powerlifting decided to split ways, and the opportunity for many within the United States to compete within the IPF disappeared.  Competing at the international level is something that many powerlifters within the country strive to achieve and Powerlifting America was developed as a way for those to be able to continue to do that.  Powerlifting America has become officially recognized by the IPF as their official federation within the US and the WHSPA wants to ensure that we continue to provide opportunities for all our lifters to compete in a truly drug-free federation that is recognized by the WHSPA.   

How do I choose the right federation for me/my team?

USA Powerlifting

• High membership numbers that provide higher numbers of competition within each weight class

• Numerous events within Wisconsin and the country outside of the traditional high school season

• Lower membership costs for high school lifters

• More weight classes

• Opportunity to compete in different federations without penalty

• USA Powerlifting provides international competition through its Student World Cup Series

• 10% of competitors at each competition are tested

Powerlifting America

• If qualified and selected by Powerlifting America, the opportunity to compete in the International Powerlifting Federation World Championships or North American Powerlifting Federation Championships

• Olympic-level drug testing done by the United States Anti-Doping Association

• Out-of-meet drug testing and drug education if you make national or international level competition