The clang and clatter of weighted barbells slamming to the ground is music to the ears of the Lehman Lobo girls powerlifting team.

With each echoed thud comes the gratification of another deadlift repetition in the books. The motivation that comes from that sound goes far beyond the driving heavy metal music blasting through speakers in the Lobos’ weight room.

Such noises aren’t uncommon for the Lobo girls powerlifting team, which seemingly makes it an annual ritual to prepare for the ...