Europe’s Rising Stars: European Youth & U15 Championships 2025
Upcoming European Talents
Three unforgettable performances defined the European Youth Weightlifting Championships in Madrid, each telling its own story of determination, precision, and the kind of competitive spirit that makes this event so special.
Harrison McGrogan of Ireland stepped onto the men’s 65 kg platform with a calm focus that belied the stakes. Opening with a confident 113 kg snatch, he followed with a perfectly executed 118 kg to secure a place among the leaders. When it came to the clean & jerk, McGrogan looked unshakable—nailing 149 kg with speed and control. His 267 kg total not only earned him a historic bronze medal but also cemented him as the first Irish youth lifter to ever claim multiple medals at a European Youth Championship.
In the Women’s 58 kg category, Nicoleta Cojocaru of Moldova delivered a performance for the record books. She began with an authoritative 85 kg snatch, setting the tone for the rest of the session. But it was in the clean & jerk where she truly left her mark—successfully lifting 105 kg to set a new European Youth Record. Her 190 kg total was untouchable, and her composure between lifts showed the poise of a seasoned competitor despite her youth. Watching Cojocaru work the platform was to witness technical precision paired with raw strength, a combination that has already made her one of the brightest prospects in European women’s weightlifting.
Completing this trio of stars was Arsenii Kurochkin, competing under the AIN (Athlete Independent Neutral) banner in the men’s 71 kg class. From the moment he walked onto the stage, his presence commanded attention. He opened with a crisp 125 kg snatch to take an early lead, then stunned the crowd with a massive 161 kg clean & jerk—setting a European Youth Record in the process. His final total of 286 kg was not just a winning number but a statement of dominance that positioned him as one of the most exciting lifters to watch in the coming years. The combination of explosive power and technical mastery in Kurochkin’s lifting made him a standout even in a field stacked with talent.
Inspiring The Next Generation
The European Youth Weightlifting Championships are far more than just a battle for medals—they’re a vital stepping stone in the journey of every young lifter aiming for the sport’s highest levels. For many athletes, this is their first taste of international competition, where the stakes are real, the crowd is loud, and the weight on the bar feels heavier not just because of the plates, but because of the pressure of national representation. It’s here that they learn how to perform under the clock, adapt their strategy in real time, and maintain composure when a lift could mean the difference between a podium finish and going home empty-handed. The lessons learned in Madrid’s competition hall go beyond technique—they teach resilience, mental focus, and the art of channeling nerves into performance.
But the value of this championship extends beyond the platform. It’s a rare opportunity for young athletes from across Europe to connect, share training insights, and build friendships that transcend national borders. They are exposed to different coaching styles, warm-up strategies, and approaches to recovery—experiences that expand their understanding of the sport. Federations also use this event to identify and nurture future stars, ensuring that talent is spotted early and developed with care. Ultimately, the European Youth Championships act as a launchpad, transforming raw potential into polished skill and giving these young lifters the confidence and competitive maturity to step onto junior and senior world stages with the poise of champions in the making.
Looking To The Future
The vibrancy and determination showcased at the European Youth Weightlifting Championships in Madrid offer an inspiring glimpse into the future of the sport. These young athletes are not only pushing their physical limits but are also setting new benchmarks in technique, mental toughness, and competitive spirit at an early stage in their careers. With multiple records being broken and performances marked by precision and power, it’s clear that this next generation is poised to elevate weightlifting to unprecedented heights. Their exposure to high-pressure international competition helps them develop crucial experience and confidence that will serve them well as they transition into junior and senior categories.
What this means for weightlifting is profound: the sport is entering a new era characterized by greater athleticism, innovation, and global reach. The young champions of today will be the trailblazers and role models of tomorrow, inspiring peers and younger athletes to dream bigger and train harder. Their achievements contribute to a growing momentum that encourages wider participation, improved coaching methods, and stronger support systems within national federations. As these athletes continue to mature, they will help push the boundaries of what is possible, making competitions more thrilling and raising the profile of weightlifting worldwide. Ultimately, the legacy of this youth championship in Madrid extends far beyond the medals won—it symbolizes a rejuvenation of the sport’s spirit, ensuring that weightlifting remains vibrant, competitive, and deeply inspiring for generations to come.
