In the final podcast of the 2025-26 school year, the team discusses Spring playoffs, a charity basketball game sponsored by the Cobb Schools Foundation, and a new intern program.

There is always much to consider when it comes to sports in Cobb Schools, and this episode highlights just a few of the activities happening around the District as seniors get ready to graduate and students (and families) look forward to summer.

Key Takeaways:

• A unique charity basketball game was organized by the Cobb Schools Foundation to raise funds for autism awareness, demonstrating community engagement.
• The introduction of an internship program for high school students aims to enhance their practical experience in sports reporting and media, thereby developing their skills.
• Cobb sports teams have achieved significant success this spring, with several advancing to the postseason and competing at high levels in their respective sports.
• An impressive 141 individual or relay teams from Cobb schools have qualified for the state track and field championships, underscoring the district's athletic prowess.

This episode of the Cobb Sports Podcast goes on the road to Lassiter and Wheeler High Schools to meet with the winter sports team state champions from Cobb Schools.

Both the Boys and Girls Swim Team from Lassiter won the state title this year: the first for the boys and the seventh consecutive for the girls! Ashlyn Loftin, Alex O'Brien, and Coach Brittany Hughes join the conversation to discuss their amazing season and success in the pool.

The Wheeler Boys Basketball team recently won their 11th school state title, and the fifth in seven years under Coach Larry Thompson. Along with AD Barry Bowdre, the Wildcat starting five join the podcast to celebrate their championship and their team.

Key takeaways:

• The Cobb County School District stands as one of the largest educational districts in the nation, highlighting its significance in the realm of athletics.

• The Lassiter High School swim team has achieved remarkable success, with the girls securing their seventh consecutive state championship title this year.

• The importance of nutritional intake for competitive athletes was emphasized, particularly regarding the role of carbohydrates in enhancing performance during races.

• The camaraderie and leadership among the swim team members were pivotal in cultivating a culture of excellence and motivation throughout the season.

• This year marked a historic achievement for the boys' swim team, as they clinched their first state championship title in the history of the school.

• Individual dedication and teamwork among the swimmers were essential components that contributed to their overall success and championship victories.

From Fried Rice to State Championships: A Unique Perspective on Cobb County Sports!

The Cobb Sports Podcast goes on the road to the Marietta Square Market for some global food and local high school sports discussion. Cobb Schools had an impressive winter sports season and basketball is just getting started in the early stages of the postseason, "March to Macon."

Eric and Brad discuss their lunch choices at the Market, as well as several of the stories and athletes they have covered the last couple months. Sharpen your Cobb Sports knowledge with this "new and improved" on-location episode of the podcast.

This episode of the Cobb Sports Podcast discusses the current reclassification process being conducted by the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) and its potential impact on Cobb. This realignment happens every two years to ensure even competition among Georgia high schools and prevent unfair contests.

Additionally, the episode highlights notable achievements within the District, such as Brittany Hughes's accolade as Swim Coach of the Year, innovative programs like Harrison's "Dirt Dog" initiative, and getting 1% better each day.

Key takeaways:

• Every two years, the GHSA conducts a reclassification process to ensure equitable competition among schools of similar sizes and capabilities.
• Brittany Hughes recently received Swim Coach of the Year award, reflecting her exceptional leadership and commitment to student-athletes.
• The Dirt Dog program at Harrison High School recognizes exemplary contributions from student athletes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and personal development.
• Walton High School's volleyball team achieved remarkable success by winning their 16th state title, displaying resilience and determination throughout the tournament.
• Turner's Heroes Night at Allatoona High School celebrates and supports young patients battling pediatric cancer, showcasing the community's commitment to service and compassion.
• Much more, including High School Athletic Hall of Fame inductees around the District and Fall sports playoffs and highlights.

In this first episode of the 2025-26 school year, Don Baker reveals interesting facts, stats, and other information about sports and athletics around the District. Athletic participation is increasing around the country, and Cobb is no different. More and more students are becoming athletes, thanks to more and more choices and opportunities.

Also, Brad McBrayer relates his experience of being part of the District's sports reporting team as well as the level of completion—and compassion and care—he has seen and experienced.

Takeaways:

• Cobb County School District boasts over 16 high schools, fostering immense athletic talent across diverse sports disciplines.
• The podcast discusses the remarkable increase in athletic participation among students since the pandemic, reflecting broader national trends.
• Notably, flag football and esports have emerged as rapidly growing sports, significantly enhancing student engagement in athletics.
• The introduction of the AD Impact Award highlights the importance of recognizing the hard work of athletic directors in schools throughout Cobb County.
• The recent renaming of Pope High School's football field to Matt Hobby Field exemplifies the community's commitment to honoring those who have made significant contributions to youth sports.
• Cobb County's emphasis on student safety has led to the implementation of a 20-minute emergency action meeting before sporting events, enhancing preparedness and response capabilities.

District AD Don Baker joins the final podcast of the school year to discuss Spring sports and the entire year overall. Once again, Cobb has shown the way and our student-athletes and coaches are right there in the midst of the elite sports action in the state.

Wheeler High School's tenth state championship for Boys Basketball is discussed on today's episode, as are many of the other career accomplishments by Cobb athletic leaders. Cobb Schools consistently has great talent on the field and the court and in the classroom, and that doesn't happen by accident.

The District attracts the best teachers and coaches in the business and that top talent stays in Cobb thanks to regular opportunities for recognition and professional development. Director of Athletics Don Baker joins the discussion and mentions just a few of them.

District Athletic Director Don Baker joins the podcast to discuss all things Cobb Sports. Winter sports like swimming and wrestling are over and basketball is getting near Macon. Two teams remain for Cobb (Pebblebrook and Wheeler boys) and could possibly meet in the 6A Finals.

There are also many other accomplishments to note and Don is always in the know. You can get "in the know" too by simply listening to this fun and informative episode.

District Athletic Director Don Baker joins the podcast to discuss the busy time between winter and spring sports. It's what he calls "tax season" for Athletic Directors because there's so much happening every night of the week.

Don also summarizes where we are with winter sports and what to look forward to (besides warmth) in the spring. He also mentions several accolades that Cobb graduates have received, including a CFP national championship!

In 2024, Cobb Schools won 42 state championships and a host of other awards and honors. It was an exceptional year for student-athletes in the District, on and off the field.

Don Baker joins the podcast to discuss some of these accomplishments, as well as his usual "behind the scenes" look at athletics. There is much to be thankful and appreciative for, as well as much to look forward to in 2025.