February 13, 2026 — A sport in which Cobb regularly excels is swimming. Some of the best talent in the state competes here and this week's Athletes of the Week (AOW) are proof of that claim. From West Cobb to East Cobb, these County Champions and record-setters show that high-level swimming can be seen all over the county. 

Thanks to continuing support from BSN Sports, Cobb Athletics awards the AOW to celebrate student-athletes who inspire and excel in their sports, academics, and communities. This week's honors go to Reagan Burton from Harrison High School and Houston Bickers from Pope High School.

Reagan Burton, Swimming, Harrison

A four-time Cobb County Champion, Reagan is a junior for the Lady Hoyas and swims year-round. She has already been selected as captain for next year's team and is very well-respected by her coaches, teachers, and teammates. She is a strong competitor and leader, but she is also compassionate and the first to lend a hand when challenges arise. She is one of the team's top point scorers, and she is a champ in the classroom, too.

"Reagan leads in our best relays and individually always competes for the top spot. She is the first to encourage others and to help guide them to be better," said her coach Carey Ward. "I could brag all day about her: great grades, great swimmer, and just a wonderful person!"

"Not only is Reagan a great athlete, she is also a great student, school citizen, and example for her peers and the community. She carries herself with a quiet confidence and is never one to seek the spotlight," said Harrison Athletic Director Wes Ellis in agreement. "She is such a talented swimmer who has multiple state championships from last season. She is an absolute asset to our school!"

Houston Bickers, Swimming, Pope

Also a junior and a Cobb County Champ, Houston broke the 100-yard freestyle record that stood since 2001 with a blazing time of 46.43. He had previously broken the 200-yard record. He swims year-round and has been doing so since elementary school. He's the reigning points MVP for the Greyhounds and helps to elevate everyone around him, in the pool and out. Houston is also an all-star in the classroom, despite taking a rigorous course load.

"Houston is a quiet leader who likes to set the example," said his coach Zachary Schreer. "He’s very humble, but always looking for the next mountain to climb. His teammates love him and he supports them right back. He’s a great kid: good in the classroom, and fast in the pool."

"He demonstrates strong leadership traits, is a superb athlete, and an outstanding performer in his classes. Houston is one of our top-performing athletes. As a junior, we are excited to see him perform with excellence in future swim meets," concluded Pope AD Josh Mathews about his school's Athlete of the Week.

Congratulations, Reagan and Houston! Your swimming is impressive, and we can't wait to see what next season holds for both of you. Great job supporting these Athletes of the Week, Harrison and Pope.