If you have a friend that’s on the North Atlanta swim team, it’s almost certain you’re aware of the near daily struggles they encounter. Comprised of more than 60 students from all grades, the team practiced rigorously for several months to prepare themselves for demanding competitions.

The season began in September when the team first dove into “dry” conditioning – on the track – and then onto “wet” conditioning – in the pool. Usually, the team practices in the Chastain Park pool after school. “Although we had to commit to attending five out of seven practices per week, it was well worth it in getting us ready for meets,” said sophomore Lacy Thompson.

In addition to the afternoon practices, swimmers had morning practices which included “dry” workouts. “Every Monday and Wednesday we had to come early in the morning and do our weekly workouts,” said sophomore Jack Yanoshik. “The only pain of it was having to get up so early. It’s challenging.”

The most recent meet – the Atlanta Public School District Meet on January 19 – was dedicated as a senior night. The boys team took 1st place in their overall category, while the girls team barely lost to Grady, taking home second place. “Even though our teams couldn’t both get first place, each of us empowered one another and cheered each other on,” said junior Jack Henderson. “We all tried our hardest and we finished the season out strong.”

With their most recent victories, the North Atlanta swim team has become somewhat of a dynasty. The team has been under the coaching direction of literature teacher Star Brackin for the past several years. The Water Warriors have hopes to continue to be not only victorious, but also united in performance and teamwork.