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.

Director of Athletics Don Baker joins the podcast to discuss fall sports, playoffs, and the seemingly unending supply of exceptional talent in Cobb.

The District has great students, parents, staff, and overall community and this reflects in what happens on the field, and off. And at this time of year, it is appropriate to reflect on that and be grateful.

Don Baker joins the podcast to discuss just a few of the many things that happen "behind the scenes" to make sports in Cobb happen flawlessly. There are a multitude of details that need to be met and sometimes that involves students, staff, volunteers, or all three. District AD Baker gives a glimpse at the moving parts working hard off (or on the side of) the field and the court.

Also, Don discusses the changes happening with the National Letter of Intent and Signing Day. Listen to this episode to learn much more.

Links from the episode:

Lassiter's Rally4Ryder

Jaiden Moore GHSF Daily Player of the Week

Cobb Sports

On this bonus episode, Don Baker continues his discussion from last time, focusing on what's happening in Fall sports action for Cobb. Football, cross country, softball, and a look ahead to Flag Football and Winter sports are the topics of this "extra" podcast.