Article updated: 1/5/2012 4:57 AM

Strength of character lifts Union teen in powerlifting

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Dominic Swanson, 13, of Union took first place in his first powerlifting competition Dec. 11. He was also named offensive lineman of the year for his Huntley Youth Football team.

Brian Hill | Staff Photographer

Under the careful watch of his father Gary, Dominic Swanson, 13, trains hard in the 2,000-square-foot gym his father built in the family’s backyard. Dominic took first place at his first powerlifting meet Dec. 11.

Brian Hill | Staff Photographer

Gary Swanson of Union began powerlifting in the mid-1980s and now trains his son, Dominic Swanson, 13, who placed first at his first meet Dec. 11.

Brian Hill | Staff Photographer

Dominic Swanson, 13, of Union took first place in his first powerlifting competition Dec. 11. Dominic comes from a family of powerlifters and wants to qualify for the World Powerlifting Congress Raw World Championship later this year in Las Vegas.

Brian Hill | Staff Photographer

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Dominic Swanson exceeded everyone's expectations at his first powerlifting meet last month. The 13-year-old took first place at the American Powerlifting Federation/Amateur American Powerlifting Federation Illinois Power Raw Challenge. Next up: Nationals in Vegas. “I was really nervous before my first lift. The warm-up seemed really heavy, but when I got in front of people, it felt light,” Dominic said.

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