Dr. Adrienne Simmons Board Member District IV | Gwinnett County Public Schools
Dr. Adrienne Simmons Board Member District IV | Gwinnett County Public Schools
In the weight room of Dacula High School, strength and conditioning lessons are part of the curriculum for all students. Under the leadership of Coach James Romaniw, Dacula High has become the first school in Gwinnett County Public Schools and the only public school in Georgia to be awarded the 2024 Strength of America Award.
"I try to make strength conditioning and fitness accessible to everyone, not just our athletes," says Romaniw.
The award is presented by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and recognizes high schools that set a standard in strength and conditioning programs. The award highlights excellence in supervision, education, programs, and facilities. Dacula High was selected from hundreds of schools for this recognition.
Lianna Rodriguez, a junior at Dacula High and a softball player, shares that weight training has improved her athletic performance and inspired her passion for fitness.
"I’ve bettered myself on and off the field," Lianna adds. "I recommend weight training; it’s changed my game and my mindset."
Romaniw's goal is to teach both general fitness strategies and enhance athletic performance. The staff at Dacula High are also focusing on encouraging more young women to participate in strength and conditioning activities.
"This is for everyone," Romaniw says.
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