ATHERTON, CA – The Menlo College Weightlifting team is set to make a powerful statement in the 2025-26 season, bringing together a dynamic mix of seasoned leaders and exciting new talent. Following a summer of standout performances at national competitions, the Oaks enter this season with momentum, experience, and a roster primed to make an impact both in California and on the national stage. With Head Coach Kevin Doherty and Associate Head Coach Jared Ambrosio at the helm, Menlo Weightlifting is in great shape!

 

Key Returners to Lead the Charge

The Oaks will rely on a strong core of returning athletes to anchor the team this season. Senior James Woodley from Danville, CA, continues to impress after being crowned the USA Weightlifting U23 71kg National Champion this past summer, winning three gold medals with lifts of 107kg in the snatch, 129kg in the clean and jerk, for a total of 236kg. Senior Ryan Padron of Kihei, Hawaii, returns after competing at the 2025 USAW University Nationals with a 100kg snatch, 142kg clean and jerk, and a 242kg total.

Junior Dwayne Deang from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, and junior Fonz Ortega from Millbrae, CA, also return following strong showings at University Nationals, posting totals of 216kg and 222kg respectively. Among the women, senior Sydney Uyeda from Moanalua, Hawaii, made her first national appearance as an Oak with an impressive 5-for-6 performance, finishing 8th overall with a 137kg total. Sophomore Kira Barad (Kapolei, Hawaii) and Breanna Zide (Westlake Village, CA) also return after competing in national events, providing depth and leadership to the women's squad.

 

Newcomers to Watch

Menlo welcomes a highly talented group of newcomers poised to make an immediate impact. Junior transfer Jeshua "Peanut" Ambrosio of San Bruno, CA, and brother of Menlo alum Jared Ambrosio, impressed in his debut as an Oak with a 237kg total at the U23 National Championships. Orion Rios, also a junior from Brisbane, CA, and a standout from Villain Barbell Club, joins the team ready to make waves.

Freshman Jade Morales from Redwood City, CA, is one of the most exciting prospects in the country. Morales, the 53kg National Champion at USAW Nationals this summer, overcame an injury just eight weeks ago to post a 174kg total and claim multiple gold medals. Coach Doherty called her "the consummate pro" and believes she will help propel the Menlo program to the next level.

 

2025-26 Schedule Highlights

The Oaks kick off their competition season on Sunday, November 2nd, at the SacTown Throwdown in Sacramento, CA, with nearly the entire team expected to compete. December brings the Winter Breaker in Hayward, CA, hosted by Hassle Free BBC on December 14th at Iron Warehouse. In the new year, Menlo athletes will compete at the Silicon Valley Crossfit Competition on January 28 in San Jose, followed by the Hayward Open on February 28.

Menlo will host its very own Menlo College Open on Saturday, March 28, inside Haynes-Prim Pavilion, a full-day event that will also honor the graduating seniors. The season will culminate with USAW University Nationals in Salt Lake City, Utah, from April 8-12, 2026.

With a blend of seasoned leaders and emerging stars, the Menlo College Weightlifting team is poised for a season of impressive lifts, new records, and continued national recognition. The 2025-26 season promises to be a showcase of talent, dedication, and Oak pride.

About Menlo College Weightlifting

Menlo College Weightlifting is a nationally competitive program committed to developing top student-athletes who excel on the platform and in the classroom. Under the leadership of Head Coach Kevin Doherty, the Oaks have produced numerous All-Americans and National Champions while building a tight-knit, driven team culture. CLICK HERE TO DONATE!