East County Athlete of the Week: Brooke Decillis

Brooke Decillis has carved a path to the state tournament. The Lakewood Ranch High senior girls weightlifter, who competes in the 129-pound class, placed first in Traditional stye (320 lbs) and third in Olympic (265 lbs) at the FHSAA Class 3A-Region 6 championship Jan. 29 at East Lee County High. Decillis is the East County Athlete of the Week.

How was your experience at the district meet becoming a two-time medalist?

I (had) been preparing for this meet for a while, and it's been my goal since my freshman year to make it to states and to place. I have just been focused all season and I've been working to get my numbers up to place in states, and placing in districts and winning Traditional was a good start to that.

What were your goals for the regional meet?

I was hoping to win Traditional and then be top-three for Olympic.

How did you first get into this sport?

My friends were interested in doing it. I wasn't involved in anything (at the time) and I was new to the high school, and so I figured I would just try something. I was not very good at it. But coach (Elijah) Weaver, he helped me and I got better and I just kept working at it. I've gotten progressively better.

Why have you stuck with weightlifting after all these years?

It has given me a good sense of determination and accountability that I have to show up to practice, I have to watch what I eat and I have to work toward what I want. It doesn't come easy. If you don't put in the effort, you don't get anything out of it. 

What moment or highlight from your career have you never forgotten?

When I qualified for states (last year) that was a big thing. Also, when I hit 135 on bench, that was probably one of my favorite moments. But winning districts was really good.

Is there a motivational quote or piece of advice that you've always carried with you?

"Keep working." It doesn't matter if things get hard or if things don't go your way. You just have to keep showing up and keep putting in the effort.

What's a fun fact about you that some people might not know?

I also play flag football. I play center and linebacker, and have played for my entire time here.

If you could go anywhere for a dream vacation, where would you go and why?

I'd like to go to Italy at some point in my life. I've been to so many places already.

What music gets you in the zone before a practice or meet?

I like rap music and 2000s pop music.

Finish this sentence. Brooke Decillis is...

Determined.