An 80-year Legacy
By Dr. Peggy Pelonis, ACS Athens President
For 80 remarkable years, ACS Athens has stood as a shining beacon of academic excellence, athletic legacy, and the unwavering commitment to nurturing compassionate, capable citizens prepared to make a meaningful impact on the world. This is not just an anniversary—it is a powerful testament to generations of young men and women who have left our halls as skilled, knowledgeable leaders, equipped to navigate a complex and ever-changing world with both a problem-solving mindset and a compassionate heart.
At ACS Athens, the harmonious fusion of intellectual rigor and athletic excellence transforms students into living examples of holistic education at its finest. Every day, these young scholars pursue knowledge with fearless curiosity, diving headfirst into complex ideas and emerging with the clarity and confidence that only true learning can inspire. But their brilliance doesn’t stop in the classroom. As Conscious Global Citizens, they carry with them a deep sense of responsibility, eager to create a brighter, more just world.
And on our fields and courts, their character shines even brighter. It is here, in moments of triumph and trial, that they embody the true spirit of sportsmanship— discipline, resilience, integrity, teamwork, and
ACS Athens Philosophy of Athletics
unshakable ethics. These are not simply games; they are transformative life lessons that forge the kind of strength and moral courage that lasts a lifetime. Behind every stride, every victory, and every hardfought challenge stand the coaches—mentors, guides, and role models—who pour their hearts into shaping these young lives. With wisdom and unwavering dedication, they do far more than teach the mechanics of the game; they instill enduring values that transcend the playing field. Their tireless efforts help our students dream boldly and achieve greatly.
To these extraordinary coaches, we offer our deepest gratitude. Your legacy lives on in every success story, every compassionate act, and every future leader who walks through our doors.
As we reflect on this 80-year journey, our hearts swell with pride. Time and again, we witness our students rise—through victory and defeat—with grace, resilience, and the relentless drive to be their very best selves. Their growth is our greatest triumph, and their success is the truest measure of the values we hold dear.
This is the legacy of ACS Athens—80 years strong and forever committed to lighting the path forward. Our past is a story of excellence. Our present is a living testament to resilience and hope. And our future? It is brighter than ever, carried forward by the leaders, thinkers, and compassionate changemakers we proudly call our own.
In accordance with the ACS Athens Mission Statement, the Athletic department’s intent is to provide students with athletic opportunities that will challenge them and will further develop each student’s educational maturity. The athletic program will always be in conformity with the general objectives of the school and at no time will the educational curriculum be placed in a secondary role.
The fundamental principle of sports, particularly competitive athletics, is to augment the education of the young. Athletics should both promote and supplement the regular curriculum at the school. The athletic department’s concern is the personal development of each athlete. It is however necessary for the student who elects to participate in Athletics to understand that he/she is voluntarily making a choice of self-discipline, self-responsibility and commitment.
Publisher: ACS Athens
Editor/Director of Athletics: Annie Constantinides
Co-Editors: Valia Efstathiou, Labrini Rontogiannis
Photo credits: Valia Efstathiou, Sevasti Vrakatseli, Vangelis Stolis
Copyright© 2024-25. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine (text or images) may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.
Concept & publication design: Maria Matakia www.acs.gr acsathens.athletics
A Legacy of Excellence: 80 Years of StudentAthletes at ACS Athens
By Annie Constantinides, Director of Athletics
As we celebrate 80 years of academic and athletic excellence at ACS Athens, it is impossible not to reflect on the vital role athletics has played in shaping the fabric of student life at our school. Sports have never been a side note at ACS Athens: they’ve been central to our mission of developing well-rounded individuals who aspire to achieve both in the classroom and on the field. The concept of the student-athlete has long been a defining pillar of our program. Our athletes are students first, and it is in this balance of intellectual growth and physical challenge that they truly thrive. Whether it’s basketball or volleyball, swimming or track, our students have consistently shown that dedication, perseverance, and passion can coexist with academic ambition.
Over the decades, ACS Athens has offered a wide variety of sports. From wrestling and football to softball and cross country, these programs have not only provided opportunities for competition but also for lasting friendships, building character and creating leaders on and off the field. Many of our coaches have worn two hats, as educators and as mentors, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students. Their leadership, both on the court and in the classroom, has
helped shape some of the most exceptional athletes to come through our school; students who have gone on to succeed at the highest levels, both in sport and in life.
At the heart of our department are values that extend far beyond any trophy count: respect, discipline, pride, motivation, sportsmanship, and effort. These aren’t just words hanging on the gym wall; they are lessons that prepare our students for the challenges and responsibilities of life beyond ACS Athens. Athletics provides a stage where these values are lived, tested, and ultimately translated into character. We are proud of our past and the legacy it continues to leave for new generations. As we look ahead, I am confident that the spirit of ACS Athens Athletics, rooted in tradition, will carry us forward. Together, we will continue to inspire excellence, develop leaders, and uphold the proud tradition of the ACS Athens student-athlete.
ACS Athens Athletics “10 Commandments”
• Never underestimate your opponent.
• Work on your weaknesses until they become your strong points.
• Remember that a great effort is usually the result of great attitude.
• Win with humility, lose with grace.
• Ignore those who discourage you.
• Remember that how you conduct yourself off the field is just as important as how you conduct yourself on the field.
• Talent is God-given – be humble. Fame is man-given – be thankful. Conceit is self-given – be careful.
• Don’t ask to be deprived of tension and discipline – these are the tools that shape success.
• Do what has to be done, when it has to be done, and as well as it can be done.
• Always give your best!
EFFORT
RESPECT
Competitive Teams
Varsity Cross Country
Varsity Girls Soccer
Varsity Boys Soccer
Varsity Girls Volleyball
Varsity Boys Volleyball
High School Swimming
Varsity Tennis
High School Track & Field
Varsity Girls Basketball
Varsity Boys Basketball
Junior Varsity Girls Basketball
Junior Varsity Boys Basketball
Junior Varsity Boys Soccer
Junior Varsity Girls Soccer
Junior Varsity Girls Volleyball
Junior Varsity Boys Volleyball
Junior Varsity Cross Country
Middle School Track & Field
Middle School Tennis
Middle School Swimming
Middle School Girls Basketball
Middle School Boys Basketball
Middle School Girls Soccer
Middle School Boys Soccer
Middle School Cross Country
Our
Coaching Team
Angelos Dimitropoulos
JV Boys Volleyball, Varsity Girls Basketball, Track & Field, Cross Country
Vasilis Mikros JV Boys Soccer, Cross Country, Track & Field
Efi Karatopotuzi Cross Country, Track & Field
Justin Cramer
Varsity Boys Basketball, Middle School Boys Basketball
Ilias Karapiperis Varsity Boys Soccer
Labrini Rontogiannis Varsity Girls Volleyball
Babis Mamas
Varsity Boys Volleyball, Track & Field
Dean Moraitis Varsity Girls Soccer, Middle School Girls Soccer
Nick Naoum Varsity Girls Soccer
Kostis Pallikaris Swimming
Panagiotis Litsas Middle School Boys Soccer
Vicky Klimou JV Girls Soccer
Niki Dimitropoulou JV Girls Volleyball
Chris Stachikas JV Boys Basketball, Middle School Boys Basketball
Chris Kourtis Middle School Tennis
Igor Schoenefeld Varsity Tennis
Antonis Polychronopoulos JV Girls Basketball, Middle School Girls Basketball
Alexandros Giannopoulos Swimming
Natasa Antoniou Swimming
An interview with Varsity Basketball Alumnus and Astronaut Scott Parazynski From the Court to the Cosmos:
By Evgenia Dourida, Athletic Council
Panayioti Simigiannis, Athletic Council
Labrini Rontogiannis, Varsity Volleyball Coach
From dribbling on the court to floating in zero gravity, our esteemed alumnus, a former varsity basketball player turned astronaut, proves that the lessons learned in sports extend far beyond Earth. In a recent conversation with members of our Athletic Council, he shared how discipline, leadership, and teamwork helped him succeed in both competitive sports and the demanding world of space exploration.
From Basketball to NASA: Teamwork
Reflecting on his time as a student-athlete, he emphasized that sports taught him how to work within a team - a skill that became crucial in space. “A team is always better than just one great player,” he noted. Just like in basketball, success in space missions depends on collaboration, trust, and strategic thinking. NASA, he explained, is just as competitive as sports, requiring individuals to push their limits while relying on their teammates to achieve a shared goal.
A Game of Zero-Gravity Tennis
Even in space, his love for sports remained strong. Alongside a French astronaut, he invented a game they called 0G Tennis: a way to stay active and have fun. Using the narrow hallways of the spacecraft, they played with a ball made of duct tape and large
manuals as paddles. The goal was to hit the ball past the opponent. This game was not just about fun but it also became a way to relieve stress and stay engaged mentally and physically during long missions.
Lessons from Winning—and Losing!
Recalling his basketball career, he spoke about memorable games, including a tough loss against the national team in Thessaloniki. “We learn from losses,” he said, emphasizing that setbacks, whether in sports or space, are opportunities for growth. The ability to cope with pressure, analyze mistakes, and adapt is as vital in high-stakes NASA missions as it is in championship games.
Advice for the Next Generation
Beyond sharing his experiences, he was eager to hear about our students and their aspirations. His biggest piece of advice? Find ways to use your strengths to overcome obstacles, whether that means pushing through academic challenges, perfecting your game, or achieving personal goals. He also stressed the importance of using both your mind and body effectively. This is a principle that has
guided him from the basketball court to outer space. Though he enjoys space travel, he admits he prefers shorter missions over months-long trips. But no matter how far he goes, the lessons from his time as
an athlete remain a guiding force in his journey. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and teamwork: qualities that can take you anywhere, even beyond the stars.
“Coming Full Circle: A Student-Athlete’s Return Home”
An interview with Alumnus and Director of the Institute Carla Tanas
Looking back on your time as a student-athlete at our school, what are some of your most memorable moments, both in competition and as part of a team?
This question takes me on a trip down memory lane! Honestly, when I look back on my time as a student-athlete, it brings back such heartfelt memories filled with both determination and laughter.
One of the things that made it all so special was the chance to travel—not just to compete, but to connect. We didn’t just move from airports to hotels; we were
welcomed into the homes and daily lives of local families, and that really stuck with me. Being hosted by families was such a meaningful part of the experience. It felt a bit like a cultural exchange, and those moments added depth to our trips. They also brought our team even closer together by sharing something so personal and unique.
And it wasn’t just the hosting— it was also those unexpected moments that turned into memories we still laugh about. Like that trip to England with Coach Nick. It was our last soccer match, pouring rain, and we were sliding more than running in these bright white uniforms. After the game, the whole team just threw ourselves into the mud like total maniacs—we were covered from head to toe. The best part? Coach Nick didn’t just watch from the sidelines—he jumped right in with us! And now, seeing him coach my own kids, it’s one of those fullcircle moments that makes your smile a little bigger.
How did being a studentathlete shape your personal and professional growth, and how does it influence your work at the school today?
We competed, but more than that, we connected—across cultures, across teams, and across schools. Those experiences really shaped how I interact with different people and personalities today.
Being part of a team taught me the importance of being a team player, not just in sports, but in life. You start to realize that every role matters. It’s not about who scores the most goals or makes the biggest plays—it’s about how every piece fits together and collaborates. You’re only as strong as your weakest link, so it’s essential to support, connect with, and empower each other.
That mindset stuck with me— whether in a work setting or just in everyday life.
What values or lessons from your time in athletics do you still carry with you, and how do you try to pass them on to the next generation of student-athletes?
Discipline brings freedom! It’s such a simple phrase, but it’s one that has stayed with me ever since my time as a student-athlete. Back then, I didn’t fully grasp it, but over time, I’ve seen how true it really is.
In sports, discipline meant showing up—even when you were tired, even when it was raining, even when the last thing you wanted to do was run another drill. It meant being consistent, pushing yourself, and giving your best—not just for yourself, but for the whole team. That structure actually gave me a sense of freedom. Freedom to grow, to trust myself, to take risks, and to know I could handle tough situations.
That lesson spills into everything now: work, family, relationships. I try to pass that mindset on to the next generation by leading through example. Whether I’m parenting or just having a casual conversation with students in ACS Athens Open, I try to remind them: discipline isn’t about being rigid or perfect. It’s about creating a foundation so solid that when life gets chaotic—as it always does—you’ve got something strong to stand on.
And I also remind them to enjoy the process. Celebrate the small wins. Be coachable. Lift each other up. Because in the end, no matter how far you go in sports—or anything—it’s the feelings and experiences that live within you forever.
As the school celebrates its 80th anniversary, what does it mean to you to be both an alum and a current staff member, continuing to contribute to the school’s athletic legacy?
I’ll be honest, in the beginning, it took me a little time to find my footing as a professional here. Walking the same halls where I used to sprint to class or joke around with classmates felt surreal—especially now coming to school with my own children. The line between “student me” and “professional me” blurred
for a while. But with time, that feeling settled into something really special.
Now, being both an alum and a current staff member—especially as the school celebrates its 80th anniversary—feels like such an honor. It’s not just a workplace, it’s home. It’s the place that helped shape who I am, gave me lifelong friendships, taught me resilience, teamwork, and how to grow through challenges. So to have the chance to pay it forward feels like closing a beautiful circle.
A Book Review: How The Champion’s Mind Transformed My Coaching
By Labrini Rontogiannis, Varsity Girls Volleyball Coach
As a Varsity Girls’ Volleyball coach and a parent of two athletes involved in competitive sports, I have always sought ways to help my players and my children reach their full potential — not just as athletes, but as individuals. Despite years of experience, I often felt like I was missing a key element in unlocking the mental side of performance. Part of that changed when I read The Champion’s Mind by Jim Afremow.
Afremow’s book dives deep into the psychological side of sports, focusing on how mental strength separates good athletes from great ones. He emphasizes that success is not solely about talent or physical ability — it is about mindset, focus, and resilience. As I read, I realized that many of the struggles my athletes face on the court are not about their skills; they are about their mental approach. Nerves before big games, loss of focus under pressure, and frustration after mistakes are all signs that they need more than just technical training — they need
mental conditioning.
Next season, I plan to apply many of Afremow’s techniques with my volleyball team. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the concept of “thinking like a champion.” Afremow argues that elite athletes prepare mentally just as much as they do physically. I want to help my players develop mental routines that allow them to handle pressure and bounce back from setbacks. For example, we can work on visualization techniques, where players picture themselves succeeding in key moments. I will also encourage them to use positive self-talk to stay focused and confident, even after a mistake. I want them to approach every match with the mindset that they are prepared, capable, and resilient.
I also plan to help them embrace what Afremow calls a “next-play mentality.” Too often, I have seen players unravel after one error, allowing it to affect the rest of their performance. Teaching them to
let go of mistakes and focus on the next point will help them stay mentally tough when it matters most. I am confident that these strategies will not only improve their performance on the court but also strengthen our team culture — one where mistakes are seen as opportunities to grow, rather than reasons to fall apart.
What I loved most about The Champion’s Mind is how these lessons extend beyond sports. The ability to stay focused under pressure, to recover from setbacks, and to approach challenges with confidence are skills that matter just as much in life as they do in competition. Whether it is handling a tough exam, navigating a difficult conversation, or pushing through a personal
challenge, the mental habits that athletes develop in training can shape how they face life’s obstacles as well.
This mindset work is about more than just winning games — it’s about building confident, resilient young people who can thrive in any situation. If my athletes can learn to stay composed when the pressure is on, if they can support each other when things go wrong, and if they
Sole to Soul: Giving Back Through Footwear and Heart
By Panayioti Simigiannis, ACS Athens Athletic Council
The Sports Shoes Recycling project dates to the early part of 2015; it is a project that the Athletic Department has embraced through the years a nd one which makes us proud because it is a testament that simple, small gestures can and do make a difference in someone’s life.
On January 31, 2025, our school proudly demonstrated the power of compassion and community by collecting and donating 182 pairs of shoes to the NGO Institute Team for the World. This initiative was part of our ongoing commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need.
Thanks to the generosity of our students, staff, and families, each pair of shoes went to individuals who truly needed them, offering comfort, dignity, and hope. This year, the shoes were donated to a homeless shelter in downtown Athens and an organization that houses unaccompanied minors. What started as a simple idea turned into a powerful movement, showing that even small actions can have a big impact.
We are incredibly proud of our school community for stepping up and showing that kindness knows no boundaries. Together, we walked the walk and in doing so, helped others take a meaningful step forward.
This initiative, in partnership with the NGO “Institute Team for the World,” has been making a meaningful impact for years. Let’s continue the tradition of giving back and spreading positivity.
ISAA Girls Soccer
A Historic Victory: Lady Lancers Win First
European Championship in Over 35 Years
By Dean Moraitis, Varsity Girls Soccer Assistant Coach
For decades, ACS Athens has provided studentathletes with the opportunity to compete in international tournaments across Europe and parts of the Middle East. This year, our Varsity Girls’ Soccer Team, the Lady Lancers, traveled to The Hague, Netherlands, for the ISAA International Soccer Tournament, aiming to build on their strong thirdplace finish at last year’s event in Barcelona.
Expectations were high for Head Coach Nick Naom and his players. From the first whistle of pre-season, the team committed to disciplined training and growth.
Their hard work paid off. Throughout the regular season, the Lady Lancers performed consistently well, finishing the regular season undefeated. That momentum carried into the ACS Athens, hosted local tournament, where they maintained their strength and earned first place.
Confidence was high as the team flew to Amsterdam, ready to represent ACS Athens on the international stage. Over the course of two days, the Lady Lancers played four matches in group play winning all four and earning their place in the championship match.
The final against AIS Israel proved to be an emotional match. Determined to reverse their earlier loss, AIS came out with renewed energy. But our players stayed composed. With just eight minutes left, 8th grader Nikki Mitrelia scored the decisive goal, leading the Lady Lancers to a 1–0 win, and ACS Athens’ first European soccer championship in over 35 years echoing the win of the 1987 team, famously crowned the “The Golden Girls.”
What made this victory even more remarkable was the youth of the team: five 8th graders competed alongside high school teammates, making this the youngest ACS Athens squad ever to take part in a European-level tournament. Senior Evgenia Douradou, the team’s leading scorer, was recognized as Team Player, while 8th grader Melina Chatziioannou was named Most Valuable Player for her outstanding all-around performance.
Every player contributed to this unforgettable season, and the Lady Lancers now look ahead with optimism as they prepare to defend their title at next year’s ISAA tournament.
The Golden Girls of 1987
ISAA
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
VARSITY GIRLS SOCCER | ISAA at The Hague Champions
CROSS COUNTRY | ISAA in Athens
JV Boys: 1st Place, JV Girls: 3rd Place
VARSITY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL | ISAA at Eindhoven 2nd Place
VARSITY BOYS VOLLEYBALL | ISAA at Vienna 2nd Place
VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL | ISAA at Valencia Champions
VARSITY BOYS BASKETBALL | ISAA at Valencia 2nd Place
SWIMMING | ISAA in Athens
Varsity Boys: 1st Place, Varsity Girls: 2nd Place
SWIMMING | ISAA in Athens
JV Boys: 1st Place
JV & VARSITY TRACK & FIELD | ISAA at Eindhoven 2nd Place
VARSITY TENNIS | ISAA at Vienna Champions
Swish Basketball @ ACS Athens: Elevating Young Athletes with the Dr. Dish Basketball Machine
By Angelos Dimitropoulos, Swish Basketball Coordinator
In January 2025, ACS Athens launched an exciting new basketball training program for studentathletes ages 10–18. Designed for both beginners and advanced players, the program focused on shooting, ball-handling, and basketball IQ, all enhanced by the Dr. Dish shooting machine. Participants were divided in age-specific groups or individual sessions, averaging over 250 shots per session with real-time feedback on accuracy and arc. With personalized drills and hands-on coaching, players saw rapid improvement in both skills and confidence.
Program Highlights:
• Over 25 participants (ages 10–14 & 15–18), including Easter Swish Camp attendees
• Dr. Dish analytics tracked every session
• Focus on shooting mechanics, footwork, and decision-making
• Supportive, high-energy training environment
Beyond stats, the program fostered te amwork, goal-setting, and a deeper love for the game. A big thank you to Coaches Cramer, Stachikas, and Polychronopoulos, and to our committed studentathletes who gave their all. Stay tuned: this is just the beginning of elite-level basketball development at ACS Athens!
Athletic House Points
House Point Leaders for Middle School and High School
Athenian
Corinthian
Spartan
Macedonian
Trojan
Iordanis Mygdalis, 12th grade
Zefi Solomos, 8th grade
Laura Riley Lyles, 12th grade
Jordan Lyles, 8th grade
Lea-Maria Meitani, 9th grade
Thanasis Minogiannis, 8th grade
Alexandra Feida, 9th grade
Niki Mitrelia, 8th grade
Dimitrios Sideridis, 9th grade
Ami Koyama, 8th grade
Athletic Excellence The Athletic Journey of ACS Athens
By Labrini Rontogiannis, Manager of Recreational Activities and Athletics
For more than five decades, ACS Athens has been at the forefront of international school athletics, not only competing at the highest levels but also shaping the very structure of international athletic associations. From pioneering tournaments to founding new leagues, our school’s athletic journey through organizations like ISST, EMAC, SCIS, and now ISAA is a mark of our commitment to excellence, sportsmanship, and student development.
ISST: Laying the Foundation for Excellence
The International Schools Sports Tournament (ISST), founded in 1968, marked a defining era for ACS Athens. As a founding member, ACS Athens helped shape the structure and spirit of what would become one of the most prestigious athletic conferences for international schools in Europe.
Over the decades, ACS Athens was a fixture at ISST tournaments, regularly sending teams in wrestling, softball, cross country, soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis. The school also took on leadership roles, hosted events, and contributed to the growth of the organization. The ISSTs offered opportunities for student-athletes to represent their school, build cross-cultural friendships, and grow as individuals. In 2020, ACS Athens concluded its participation in
the ISSTs, marking the end of a powerful legacy. Yet, the impact remains: a generation of athletes shaped by the values of discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.
EMAC: Regional Spirit and Educational Growth
The Eastern Mediterranean Activities Conference (EMAC) was established in 1978 as a regional league connecting schools from the Middle East, Greece, and Egypt. At its height, EMAC included up to 27 member schools, offering competitions in both athletic and academic disciplines.
Though EMAC was dissolved in 2011, it played an important role in the region, including at ACS Athens. As an associate member, ACS Athens aligned with EMAC’s mission to develop students through a balance of academics, athletics, and the arts. EMAC’s goals - to foster fair play, intercultural understanding, and group participation - mirror our school’s own holistic approach to education. ACS Athens was part of EMACs Track and Field events, wrestling as well as the arts.
SCIS: More than a Decade of Connection and Competition (2006–2020)
From 2006 to 2020, ACS Athens was proud to be part of the Sports Council for International Schools (SCIS), an organization grounded in the belief that sports can connect students across cultures in meaningful ways.
SCIS was about more than just tournaments: it emphasized cultural immersion, community, and affordability through its hallmark “Homestay Program” (similar to the format of ISSTs events). ACS Athens athletes not only competed across Europe, but stayed with local families, building intercultural friendships and gaining invaluable life experiences.
During our 14-year tenure, ACS Athens embraced this ethos wholeheartedly. The SCIS model resonated with our values, reinforcing that sports can be a vehicle for personal and global growth.
ISAA: Shaping the Future of International Athletics
In 2020, ACS Athens helped bring in a new era by becoming a founding member of the International Schools Athletic Association (ISAA). This modern organization was born from a desire to create an
inclusive, sustainable, and student-centered platform for international athletic competition.
ISAA aims to build not just strong athletes, but wellrounded individuals. As a founding school, ACS Athens continues to play a key role in developing this new vision. A vision rooted in excellence defined by our Lancer values: Discipline, Respect, Sportsmanship, Pride, Effort and Motivation.
A Lasting Legacy
From its early involvement in the ISSTs to its current role in the evolving landscape of the ISAA, ACS Athens has remained committed to progress and excellence in school athletics.
Through hosting, competing, and contributing to the development of international athletic programs, the school has consistently supported the growth of student-athletes both on and off the field. Each organization has brought its own distinct influence to the ACS Athens athletics journey. Together, they reflect a legacy of adaptability, leadership, and a sustained commitment to fostering well-rounded, future-ready individuals.
ISAA Cross Country on Home Turf
Our Fall athletic travels began right here in Athens, where we proudly hosted the ISAA Cross Country Meet. Welcoming schools from across Europe, the event took place under clear skies and ideal running conditions, setting the stage for a memorable 2 days of competition.
Our student-athletes rose to the occasion, delivering strong individual and team performances. The Varsity Girls secured a commendable 6th-place finish, while the Varsity Boys claimed 4th. Our Junior Varsity teams shone brightly, with the JV Girls taking 3rd place and the JV Boys earning a well-deserved 1st-place finish.
Congratulations to All!
ISAA Swimming Championships
Our swimmers made waves at home during the ISAA Swimming Championship. The level of competition was intense, but our athletes rose to the occasion, delivering outstanding results across all divisions.
The Junior Varsity Boys team delivered a standout performance, tying for 1st place overall. This is a testament to their talent, determination and hard work throughout the season. The Varsity Girls team impressed with their consistency and teamwork, earning an admirable 2nd place finish. The Varsity Boys team delivered an outstanding performance, securing 1st place!
In total, our swimming program brought home an exceptional tally of 17 gold, 11 silver, and 10 bronze medals: a remarkable achievement that reflects the commitment of our student-athletes and coaches. It was a championship to remember and a proud moment for our entire community.
Since 2006, the ACS Athens International Swimming Cup has brought together student-athletes from around the world in a celebration of competition, camaraderie, and excellence. This year, the tradition continued as the ACS Athens Swim Team delivered a stellar performance against seven schools from Greece and abroad.
With over 13 events spanning Middle and High
School categories, the atmosphere was electric. Our athletes rose to the occasion, earning an impressive 18 gold, 8 silver, and 12 bronze medals. ACS Athens secured 1st place across all divisions, with a strong relay performance. ACS Athens proudly claimed the overall 1st place trophy.
Congratulations to all our swimmers, coaches, and supporters. Go Lancers!
International Track & Field Meet
ACS Athens student-athletes delivered an outstanding performance at the International Local Track & Field Meet co-hosted by Campion British School. ACS Athens showcased their talent, determination, and team spirit.
The Middle School team excelled with a remarkable medal haul: 9 gold, 8 silver, and 6 bronze, securing 1st place overall.
Our High School athletes were equally impressive, collecting 14 gold, 6 silver, and 7 bronze medals to claim 1st place overall.
Congratulations to all our athletes and coaches! Your efforts continue to elevate the standard of excellence in ACS Athens athletics.
Tennis Varsity local Tournament
ACS Athens proudly hosted two thrilling tennis tournaments, welcoming student-athletes from St. Lawrence, St. Catherine’s, Campion, and ACS Athens. With over 90 players competing in more than 100 matches across singles and doubles brackets, the campus courts buzzed with energy!
ACS Athens Varsity Tennis earned top honors, bringing home medals in every category, including gold in Boys Singles, Boys Doubles, and Girls Doubles, as well as silver in Boys Doubles, Girls Singles, and Girls Doubles.
Our younger Middle School athletes also impressed, earning silver in Girls Singles and Boys Doubles, and bronze in Boys Singles and Girls Singles.
Congratulations to all players, coaches, and supporters!
isAa tennis championship
ACS Athens Varsity Tennis Triumphs for the Third Consecutive Year at ISAA Tournament
The ACS Athens Varsity Tennis team has once again demonstrated its excellence on the court, securing its third straight ISAA championship title at this year’s tournament held in Vienna, Austria. This remarkable three-peat is a testament to the team’s skill and commitment.
Throughout the tournament, our athletes showcased exceptional composure, abilities, and sportsmanship. Both singles and doubles teams delivered standout performances!
This third consecutive title highlights the growth and character of a team that values effort, discipline, and pride! Congratulations to our s tudent-athletes and coaches for their hard work, perseverance, and team spirit. The legacy continues, onward and upward! Four-peat?
MAY 17-18 MAY 17-18
The curtain has closed on a remarkable chapter in the ACS Athens athletics legacy with the conclusion of the 15th and final International Basketball Coaches Clinic. Since its inception, this event has served as a beacon of excellence, bringing together basketball coaches, educators, and enthusiasts from across the globe to share knowledge, build community, and elevate the game.
This year’s clinic was especially meaningful, featuring three distinguished guest speakers whose leadership and experience enriched every session:
• Coach Kostas Papadopoulos
–National Youth Team Coach, Greece
• Coach Ritchie McKay
–Head Coach, Liberty University
• Coach Tony Bennett –2019 NCAA Champion, University of Virginia
Their wisdom, humility, and passion for the sport left a powerful impression on all in attendance, reinforcing the clinic’s core mission of mentorship and growth.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to the clinic’s success over the years, from world-class speakers and engaged participants to the dedicated ACS Athens community. While this chapter concludes, the spirit and impact of the International Basketball Coaches Clinic will continue to inspire coaches and student-athletes for years to come.
Kostas Papadopoulos
Ritchie McKay
Tony Bennett
The year through the lens
