LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) -- Lydia Shields' first exposure to powerlifting was in 2019. She's had support from her family, including her brothers.

"They knew I was strong but didn't think I did what I could," Shields said. "So, when I got home from the first practice and, I told them what I had lifted. They were all surprised."

Shields is currently a student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She is a two-time state champion, winning in her junior and senior years at North Vermilion High School. One of those titles was decided with a deadlift.

"Walking up to that bar," Shields said. "I was like, if I don't get this, it's going to be a tough day for me because I just wanted to win, getting the making win. So, I walked up to that bar. I looked up to the sky, hoping for the best. Looked down, going the way I got it. Put the weight down --I was hoping for all-white lights. Waited a few seconds. I saw those lights, and my face lit up."

Shelby Vice, assistant coach at Cajun Prep Powerlifting, said Lydia locks in when she pulls up to the bar.

"She's focused," Vice said. "That really brings courage to everyone else around her. So, you know, whenever she's the last person to leave because she's the strongest, she's got this real serious attitude. She walks grinning, and everybody's happy."

Shields will compete in the World Powerlifting Championships in Malta that begin on Aug. 28. She looks forward to the opportunity to be on a global stage.

"I'm just going to take it all in," Shields said. "Whatever happens, happens. I just want to show people that you can get to the global stage, even if you're from around here. A local small town."

When not competing, Shields hopes to take in the sights of Malta.

"I heard the views are great," Shields said. "I heard the whole island itself is great. The water's clear. It's just gonna be a fun time."

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