As the first week of school came to a close, the North Atlanta students prepared for the beginning of football season. On Friday, Aug. 16, the Dubs took on the Westminster Wildcats, one of the many neighboring private schools in the area. Although it was just a scrimmage, the Warriors seemed to be in mid-season form. As the final buzzer sounded, the Warriors walked off the field with a victory by a score of 26 to 13.

Per usual, senior Quarterback Wiley Hartley led the Dubs’ offense with two passing touchdowns in the first half. The first was to Trey Harris, who brilliantly came down with the ball and a foot in-bounds. The second was a screen pass to Josh Brown who weaved his way through the defense and took it 15 yards into the endzone. “I thought it would be tough with so many receivers from last season graduating, but the chemistry I have developed with these guys over the summer is really strong,” said Hartley.

The Warriors’ defense held the Wildcat’s offense to just six points in the first half. North Atlanta’s front seven consists of seven extremely experienced players who worked to stop the run-heavy attack. “Our defense is strong due to our experience and size,” said senior defensive tackle Ojo Okoka. “We work together and take pride in doing what it takes to help out the offense.”

North Atlanta ended the 2018 season with a five-win campaign, which happens to be the school’s most victorious season since 2010. Likely due to the leadership of second-year coach, Sean O’Sullivan, the culture of North Atlanta football seems to be on the rise. “The guys have bought into what it takes to be successful,” said O’Sullivan. “They are building an extremely strong foundation for the years to come.”

The night was wrapped up with spirited play from the school’s JV teams. With a win over Westminster, a notoriously strong football program, many Dubs fans have high hopes for the regular season. The Dubs’ next contest is the regular season opener against Grady on Friday, Aug. 23.