Quiet dominance and a second state title

Aliyah Salas had been here before, but this time, it meant more. 

“It meant a lot. It’s my last year, my last sport that I got to do.” 

At this year’s NMAA Powerlifting State Championships, Salas didn’t need much buildup. By the time she completed her opening lifts, the outcome had already begun to take shape as the Centennial senior worked her way to another title. Salas took first place in the 198-pound division with a total of 840 pounds, finishing well ahead of the field. Her performance included a 205-pound bench press, breaking her own state record. 

“She’s just that much above the other competition,” head coach Aaron Ocampo said. 

A year after winning her first state title last year, Salas returned with expectations already in place, and unlike other weight classes that came down to tight finishes, hers was decided early. 

“I got to get it up. It is probably the last lift I’m ever going to do in a high school sport,” Salas said of her final attempt. 

Salas has built her reputation across multiple sports. Along with powerlifting, she competed in wrestling and spent four years on the football team. In 26 years as a head coach, Ocampo said she’sthe only girl he’s had play all four seasons, but within the program, that distinction was imperceptible. 

“She’s just a teammate. She’s a Hawk,” Ocampo said. 

At five feet tall, Salas played on the offensive line, going up against bigger opponents without hesitation, earning respect through consistency and effort. 

“She doesn’t ask for anything different. She just goes and works,” Ocampo said. 

That approach carried through everything she did, from practice to competition, where the routine stayed the same. 

“She’s a grinder,” Ocampo said. “She’s someone that’s going to come in and work every single day.” 

Salas said her family played a major role in that mindset, pointing to her mom and two older brothers as constant support. 

“They always come and support me. They motivate me to keep going,” she said. 

“It felt more emotional. Everyone that was there came to support me,” Salas said. 

Even with the accomplishments, Salas keeps her perspective simple. 

“I was just doing my thing,” she said. 

Now, she’s preparing for what comes next. After graduation, Salas plans to join the U.S. Air Force. For Ocampo, it’s hard to see her go. 

“It’s been cool to be a part of her journey,” he said. 

Salas leaves behind more than wins and records — a standard built on consistency, toughness and quiet dominance.