Dacula High School awarded the Strength of America Award

     In the Dacula High School weight room, lessons in strength and conditioning are the standard for each and every student. Under the guidance of Coach James Romaniw, Dacula High recently became the first school within Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) and the only public school in Georgia to receive the 2024 Strength of America Award.

     “I try to make strength conditioning and fitness accessible to everyone, not just our athletes,” says Romaniw.

     Awarded by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), the Strength of America Award recognizes high schools that represent the gold standard in strength and conditioning programs. Schools that earn this award have demonstrated excellence in supervision, education, programs, and facilities. Dacula High was chosen for this honor from a pool of hundreds of schools.

     Lianna Rodriguez, a junior at Dacula High and softball player, says weight training has helped her as an athlete and inspired her to love the gym.

     “I’ve bettered myself on and off the field,” Lianna adds. “I recommend weight training; it’s changed my game and my mindset.” 

     Romaniw aims to teach general fitness strategy, as well as athletic performance. Strength training and explosive, dynamic efforts translate to the court, track, and field. Dacula High staff are also working on encouraging more young women to get involved in strength and conditioning.

     “This is for everyone,” Romaniw says.