Coaching Scholarships

USA Weightlifting, in partnership with the California South WSO, is pleased to share that the WSO Women’s and BIPOC Coach Education Scholarship Program is now CLOSED for applications for the 2026 cycle. Please check back next year.

How many scholarships is your WSO offering? 

California South is offering 8 scholarships total, 4 Women's scholarships and 4 BIPOC scholarships. 

Each scholarship covers:
- Full tuition for one Level 1 or Level 2 course
- One year of USA Weightlifting membership (for new non-members)
Please note that travel or other non-tuition expenses are not included.

Submit all applications to usaw@usaweightlifting.org to be reviewed by your WSO

Timeline

February 1 – March 16, 2026: Applications Open
March 16 – March 31, 2026: WSO Selection Period

Awarded applicants will receive a scholarship code from USA Weightlifting and may register for any eligible course within the calendar year they are awarded.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria

Be a U.S. citizen
Be at least 16 years old
Identify as Female or as a member of the BIPOC community

Preference will be given to applicants who:

Work (or plan to work) with underserved populations
Have fewer than five years of coaching experience
Have experience as a weightlifting athlete or coach
Demonstrate coaching success, social impact through sport, or academic achievement in sport

2026 Scholarship Recipients

Angel Guatemala

Cassandra Soriaso

Kathleen Hafeli

Rosaria Acero

Yvette Martinez