Fitness Club Merritt Island Youth Powerlifting Takes Team Title at American Challenge National Championships

A Coach’s Pride: Frank Buzzo's Fitness Club Merritt Island Youth Team Delivers Best Season Yet

BREVARD COUNTY • MERRITT ISLAND, FLORIDA – The Fitness Club Merritt Island Youth Powerlifting Team delivered a powerhouse performance at the American Challenge National Championship, held November 22–23 at Iron Built Gym in Ashland, Virginia—earning first place overall and securing national and world championship titles in one of the program’s most successful competitive seasons to date.

The event brought together lifters from 11 states, all of whom had qualified through statewide competitions throughout the year. When the final points were tallied, the Fitness Club Youth team stood at the top.

Representing the team were Lucas Pollock, River Dennis, Jack Mosier, Jarrett Smith, McKenzie Davis, Jasmine Touati, Alex Schafer, Nathan Schafer, Gabe Adamson, Cayden Chemielewski, and Ethan Underwood.

Nearly every athlete achieved new personal records, a testament to the team’s discipline and the strong relationships built within the program.

Coach, mentor and sponsor Frank Buzzo, who has led the youth program for years, called this roster one of the most exceptional groups he has ever trained.

“These kids have heart, grit, and are as tough as nails,” Buzzo said. “I couldn’t ask for a better group of kids and parents. I am truly blessed; they have made my life better. I hope I have made their lives better. There is no quit in these kids.”

Three team members—Alex Schafer, Cayden Chemielewski and Ethan Underwood—were also playing on the Merritt Island football team during the fall season. Due to their football commitments, they had little time to train for the national powerlifting meet. Still, they traveled to Virginia to compete—and their results were stellar.

Chemielewski earned first place in his division, Underwood claimed first place in his division, and Schafer secured an impressive second-place finish.

“They flew up to Virginia despite not being able to prep, and all three did great,” Buzzo said. “I was so proud of their effort.”

Team Standouts Across All Divisions, the Fitness Club Merritt Island lifters collected numerous individual honors:

■ Jasmine Touati – 1st place
■ Cayden Chemielewski – 1st place
■ Ethan Underwood – 1st place
■ Jack Mosier – 2nd place
■ Alex Schafer – 2nd place
■ Gabe Adamson – 2nd place

Other team members posted personal-best totals throughout the competition, contributing to the program’s dominant team score.

The championship run didn’t end in Ashland. Earlier in November, several Fitness Club Youth athletes competed at the World Powerlifting Championships in Richmond, Virginia, an event featuring more than 400 competitors from 12 different countries.

The Fitness Club Merritt Island team again rose to the top—earning World Championship, Team Championship, and National Championship titles, further solidifying their reputation as a premier youth powerlifting program in the nation.

Coach Buzzo Dedicates Time, Treasure, Talent

Coach Buzzo, 72, said the team’s success reflects not only physical strength but the bond they share.

“The majority of these kids beat their personal bests. They are good friends, they have each other’s backs, and they are a special group of dedicated athletes,” he said. “I am so proud of their accomplishments.”

As the team looks ahead to future competitions, their commitment, camaraderie, and championship pedigree continue to lift them to new heights—proving that with determination and support, even the youngest athletes can achieve incredible things.

“I have the pleasure of working with a great group of kids that are dedicated to being the best that they can be and I am very proud of them, their dedication and accomplishments,” said Frank.

“I am grateful to give back the 40 years of knowledge in powerlifting that God has blessed me with. I truly believe working with these kids is what God has called me to do.”

Buzzo explains that the young men and women he is training are gaining not just physical strength.

“Powerlifting helps build self-esteem and character as well,” he said.

In addition to his time and talent, Buzzo also gave of his treasure, for years funding competition entry fees, powerlifting gear, and traveling expenses of his students in the Youth Powerlifting Program from his own pockets until sponsors 4Ever Young med spa and anti-aging clinic and Space Coast Daily stepped in with an assist.

He and his team could use more help, since they will be participating in international competitions in the near future.

“We are trying to raise money to enable our kids to compete,” said Buzzo.

While Big Frank’s powerlifting days are over, he continues to lift up his students, helping them realize their goals and dreams.

“It’s a natural fit,” said Fitness Club Merritt Island owner Lou Manley. “He is able to pass on his years and years of knowledge to the kids, and he can still come to the gym.”

The Fitness Club of Merritt Island’s Youth Powerlifting Program welcomes tax-deductible donations. Checks can be made out to Fitness Club Youth Powerlifting Program and mailed or delivered to 1450 N. Courtenay Pkwy., Suite 15, Merritt Island, FL 32953. For more information, call 321-305-5870. For more information about Fitness Club Merritt Island, call 321-455-2227 or CLICK HERE. 

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