As a part of the three-year deal, USA Weightlifting will serve as a partner of the NFHS' Coach Education Programme and seek to expand state championship opportunities.

The NFHS, based in Indiana, is the national leadership organisation for high school sports and performing arts activities.

It writes playing rules for 17 sports for boys and girls at high school level.

"This exciting development for weightlifting speaks to our desire to support high schools in integrating weightlifting, continuing to ensure safety in the weight room and to make the United States the most active nation among our youth," said Phil Andrews, chief executive of USA Weightlifting.

"We look forward to working with the NFHS and its member state associations to grow this great sport."

Currently, weightlifting is a sanctioned sport in Florida.

The Florida High School Athletic Association sponsors a state championship for boys and girls.

Several other states have schools with weightlifting programmes and USA Weightlifting anticipates "continued growth of the sport in other states".

"We are excited about this new partnership with USA Weightlifting," said Bob Gardner, NFHS executive director.

"The NFHS and its member state associations are always looking for ways to expand participation opportunities for boys and girls in high school sports.

"Through this partnership, more schools will be exposed to those opportunities through the sport of weightlifting."