Some of the best athletes in the world are those sporting a swim cap and goggles, diving off the block into a lane of crystal clear water. Swimming, a test of strength, speed, and endurance, is one of the most competitive and fast-paced sports, and no one is better than the Water Warriors of North Atlanta. 

Following a successful championship-winning season, the Dubs are looking to come out strong. Last year, the Dubs had an incredibly successful season, taking home the Atlanta Public School (APS) Championship for the third consecutive year, while also sending a handful of swimmers to State Championships. The team also finished as high as 14th in the Regional Championships, taking home three podium finishes. This year the Dubs want to flip the script and finish higher than ever before. “We had a great season last year,” said state qualifier Teddy Meredith. “We are looking to build off of last year and accomplish even more.”

In preparation for their future success, the Dubs have been through intense, physical practices. Head Coach Tim Storsten believes in preparing his swimmers through hard work, helping them reach their full potential. Practices start at 7:15 following school and last until 9:00 p.m. During each practice, the physical capabilities of each swimmer are pushed to the max. These grueling expectations have proven successful and wielded incredible results. For both new and experienced swimmers, preseason preparation is different. “The practices are honestly one of the hardest things I have ever done,” said new swimmer and junior, Jake Curcio. “They are no joke, but I know they will pay off.”

This year, the Dubs have high hopes. Coming off of an APS championship, they are looking to repeat their success. While team success is always the priority, the Dubs also want to have more swimmers qualify and participate in the state meet than ever before. Despite losing key seniors, including Matt Steele, who now swims at Georgia Tech University here in Atlanta, The team’s growing numbers will make turning that dream into reality much easier. The Dubs kicked off their season with a win in their debut meet, but the team knows the victory is just the beginning for their growing team. “Our team is bigger than ever,” said senior Delia Neufield. “We believe that there is strength in numbers. We are excited and ready to compete.”

With the 2022-23 campaign underway, the Water Warriors are eager to reach their end goal. Like last year, schools better watch out for North Atlanta because the Dubs are a threat in every race.