Sports are an incredible thing, and one of the very few parts of our lives that truly brings people together. Sports have a truly unique way of connecting people who may otherwise never see eye to eye. Only sports can rally people from all walks of life in the pursuit and support of one common entity and one common goal. This unique camaraderie makes for some truly incredible moments and memories that are ingrained into the psyche of those who participate in and witness them. Historic moments in sports are some of the most famous events in our society, and for those who participate in them, they are memories that will never be forgotten. This experience doesn’t just go for professional athletes as high school sports can be just as transformative. From state and region championships to playoff victories and school records, many people’s most memorable sports moments come during their high school careers. Let’s take a look at some of North Atlanta’s most memorable sports moments.
Chase Linton (Football) Senior Defensive End: Linton has seen his fair share of success in recent years. With multiple playoff berths and big-time plays throughout his time as a Warrior. However one moment trumps them all, his game-clinching strip sack against Lovejoy during his sophomore season. This sack was recovered by the Dubs and returned for a touchdown, clinching the program’s first playoff win in school history. Even with this incredible moment and memory, Linton hopes to make even more this year and wants to make his senior season truly memorable. “I will always cherish this moment, but I’m still looking towards the future,” said Linton, “The only person that will work harder than me is me tomorrow.”
Charlotte Smith (Softball) Senior Pitcher: Smith has been a leader on the North Atlanta softball team since her arrival in 2021. Smith has been on multiple all-region teams and is now committed to Georgia Tech to further her playing career. The softball team has seen plenty of success during her time at North Atlanta, with a three-peat of region championships. Despite all of this success, Smith’s favorite memory surrounds the camaraderie that comes with being on a team. Her most cherished moment is when, after last year’s state playoffs, the entire team went out for dinner to celebrate an incredible and memorable season. “I love all my teammates and being able to spend that time with them was very special to me,” said Smith.
Cam Shapiro (Cross Country) Senior: Shapiro is no stranger to dominance during his tenure at North Atlanta in both track and cross country. With multiple region championships under his belt, his magnum opus remains his state championship victory during his sophomore year. Cam was an important contributor to this title despite the impressive depth of the roster at the time with multiple future collegiate runners on the roster. Cam finished in the Warriors’ top five and secured crucial points for the team that ultimately helped secure the state championship, despite being only a sophomore on a team laden with veteran talent. “That feeling of lifting a state championship trophy is indescribable, and is one hundred percent the best feeling I have experienced as a Warrior.”
Tyler Mullen (Volleyball) Senior Libero: Mullen has been a member of the North Atlanta volleyball team all four years at North Atlanta. Playing the libero position, she remains one of the most important parts of the team. For Mullen, her favorite memory is not one particular moment, but rather all of the incredible relationships and friendships she has developed over the years. The team aspect of sports is truly a special one for her. “I love all of these girls and I am so thankful for all of the moments I have spent with them,” said Mullen.
Sports are truly an incredible unifying force, and they remain some of the most memorable and formative moments of our lives. Especially for these high school athletes, who have spent their whole lives dedicated to excellence in their craft, the rewards are priceless. From the incredible highs of victory to the sting of defeat, and everything in between, sports are truly one of a kind.
