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Jackson Today
By the People, for the People
Top 2025-26 Athens-area high school swimmers shine
North Oconee swimmers and Jackson County diver earn gold medals
Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:29am
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Local high school swimmers and divers make a splash at the state championships, showcasing the region's athletic talent.Jackson TodayThe Athens Banner-Herald has released its winter all-area series, highlighting the top high school swimmers and divers in the region. In the GHSA state championships, Jackson County's Alyssa Pace took first place in the 1-meter dive, while North Oconee had two swimmers, Tessa Steger and Ethan Bates, earn gold medals.
Why it matters
High school sports, especially swimming and diving, are a point of pride for local communities. These results showcase the athletic talent and dedication of student-athletes in the Athens area, who have worked hard to excel at the state level.
The details
Alyssa Pace of Jackson County won the 1-meter dive at the GHSA state championships. Meanwhile, North Oconee had two individual state champions: Tessa Steger and Ethan Bates both took home gold medals in their respective events.
- The winter all-area series was released on March 31, 2026.
The players
Alyssa Pace
A diver from Jackson County High School who won the 1-meter dive at the GHSA state championships.
Tessa Steger
A swimmer from North Oconee High School who won a gold medal at the GHSA state championships.
Ethan Bates
A swimmer from North Oconee High School who won a gold medal at the GHSA state championships.
The takeaway
The success of these local high school athletes in swimming and diving showcases the strong athletic programs and dedicated student-athletes in the Athens area, who are making their communities proud through their achievements at the state level.
