The University Of Louisiana's National Championship Weightlifting Teams

The University Of Louisiana's National Championship Weightlifting Teams

A Companion Book to the Documentary The Ragin' 13

image: weightlifter

The University Of Louisiana's National Championship Weightlifting Teams

The University Of Louisiana's National Championship Weightlifting Teams

A Companion Book to the Documentary The Ragin' 13

John “Eagle” Arceneaux

Inducted into the Weightlifting Hall of Fame: November 15, 2024

John’s interest in weightlifting started during his sophomore year in high school when he started lifting weights with a friend, Francis Broussard, in his backyard. Dicky Fleming, who was on the USL weightlifting team and lived nearby, gave them pointers on how to properly handle the weights. As John got stronger, Fleming suggested that he try Olympic lifting, and under Fleming’s guidance his love and passion for the sport was developed.

Soon, John began working out with the USL team after class every day. By working with the team members, he was able to increase his strength and improve his lifting technique. This led John to join the USL team after graduation from Lafayette High School. The sport instilled in him the importance of teamwork and how to properly function as a team. He lifted in the 148-lb. and 165-lb. class. In 1967, he competed and won second place in the National Collegiate Weightlifting Championships.
(continued below photo)

John competing in 165-lb. class at the NOLA YMCA

John entered the US Army in 1968. The teamwork and camaraderie he experienced on the weightlifting team carried over as a member of the 20 Special Forces Group, which operated in 12-man teams. Upon discharge, he worked in the banking industry, oil industry, and ran his own business.

Over the years, John raised and trained quarter horses and competed in rodeos in team roping. He also enjoy riding motorcycles and touring the US. John has one daughter. Jamie Guillory, and three grandchildren, Brayden, Ruby, and Claire.