Volunteer

Volunteer with BC Powerlifting | Help Run Meets & Grow the Sport

The British Columbia Powerlifting Association (BCPA) is a volunteer-run organization. We rely on passionate people like you, both members and non-members are welcome, to help run our events and grow the sport in BC.

Volunteering is also a great way to get involved, learn how meets work, and build community.

We are grateful to everyone who has volunteered their time in growing the sport of powerlifting in British Columbia!

Why Volunteer?

  • Gain behind-the-scenes understanding of powerlifting meets
  • Support lifters, coaches, and the community
  • Build your skills
  • Earn volunteer credits (if required for competition eligibility like regionals and nationals)
  • Join a friendly, supportive community of sport lovers

Volunteer Opportunities at Competitions

Below are roles you can take on during a powerlifting meet. Some require no experience; others do and we will provide guidance & training.

Volunteer sign-ups are posted on the BCPA Calendar page for each event. There are several positions available for each competition:

Admissions / Front Desk

Role: Handle ticketing and guest entry
Skills needed: Basic cash handling and ability to use an iPad
Tasks:

  • Collect entrance fees
  • Check credentials (competitors, coaches, volunteers)
  • Distribute printed programs and maps

Expeditor

Role: Work next to scorekeepers, manage attempt cards
Prerequisite: Familiarity with IPF rules preferred, but beginner friendly
Tasks:

  • Ensure attempt cards are correctly filled
  • Ensure timely submission
  • Forward attempt cards to scorekeepers

Warm-up Room Marshall

Role: Oversee warm-up area safety & organization
Experience needed: None
Tasks:

  • Control access to authorized people only
  • Monitor proper lifting in the warm-up space
  • Prevent clutter or unsafe practices

Announcer

Role: Lead the meet flow and keep spectators informed
Prerequisite: Some competition experience and rule knowledge

Tasks:

  • Call lifters’ names as their attempts approach
  • Make announcements (start times, delays, results)
  • Call lifter to the bar once it’s loaded

Platform Chief

Role: Lead the platform staff (spotters/loaders)
Prerequisite: Experience on meets and knowledge of IPF operations
Tasks:

  • Explain roles & weights to load to spotters/loaders
  • Approve barbell loading and confirm readiness with head referee
  • Ensure safety and efficient operation

Spotters & Loaders (combined role)

Role: Load weights and ensure safety on the platform
Experience needed: None, but these volunteers are expected to learn on the job quickly and have confidence in themselves that they can ensure the safety of the competitors at all times.
Tasks:

  • Follow commands from the head referee
  • Stage and load plates per direction
  • Safely spot lifters on failed lifts

Venue Setup Crew

Role: Prepare the facility before the meet starts
Experience needed: None
Tasks:

  • Unload and set up racks, platforms, warm-up areas
  • Set chairs, audio/video, signage, mats, etc.

Venue Tear-down Crew

Role: Pack up and restore the venue
Experience needed: None
Tasks:

  • Disassemble platforms, racks, chairs
  • Pack equipment back into trailers
  • Clean and restore the space

Scorekeeping

Role: Record all lift attempts, verify and publish results
Prerequisite: Training required (handled by the Scorekeepers Chair). See this page for more information.
Tasks:

  • Record lifters’ attempts in real time
  • Verify, cross-check, and correct any discrepancies
  • Submit final verified results

If you’re interested in scorekeeping, email the Scorekeepers Chair or check out this page to express interest and be added to the trained scorekeeper pool.

Referees

Role: Judge compliance with IPF technical rules
Prerequisite: Must pass IPF rules test and certification
Tasks: Evaluate each lift, issue commands, apply rules, ensure fairness

For details on referee training and requirements, see our Referees page.

How to Sign Up as a Volunteer

  1. Check the BCPA Calendar for upcoming meets and volunteer callouts
  2. Sign up well before the event
  3. Arrive early on meet day and check in with the Meet Director or admissions desk
  4. Ask questions – we support new volunteers!

Tips for New Volunteers

  • Don’t worry if it’s your first time – many roles require no experience
  • Be punctual and dependable
  • Learn meet flow, rules, and protocols
  • Dress comfortably, but neatly and within IPF rules
  • We will provide water, snacks and a t-shirt
  • Be proactive – ask how you can help and take initiative to learn

Related Resources & Links