An Award Legacy
The 2023 swim season was a significant milestone for our team, marking the 10th year the Barracudas have paid homage to Nathan Drake through the Spirit of a Barracuda award (we lost one year due to the COVID no-swim year).
Each year we honor his memory by presenting the Nathan Drake Spirit of a Barracuda award to one swimmer.
All past recipients of this cherished award are invited to join us at the end of year celebration and share your personal significance of receiving the award.
Honoring the memory of former Barracuda swimmer and coach, the Nathan Drake award is presented at the conclusion of each season. This very special award is given to the Barracuda who exemplifies the spirit of Nathan Drake and the qualities of character he brought to the team. He demonstrated commitment, dependability, a positive attitude and above all, respect... Respect for the team, respect for his teammates, respect for the sport, and respect for swim team competitors.
Nathan joined the Barracudas as a youngster and was a dedicated member of the team, always striving to be the best swimmer and teammate he could be. As soon as he was eligible, Nathan stepped into and embraced the role of coaching, providing mentorship and guidance to younger Barracuda swimmers. Nathan always had a smile and positive attitude ready to share, and worked hard to ensure every swimmer knew they were a vital and valued member of the team. Nathan was loved and respected by everyone who knew him and he left a huge hole in our community.
In 2013, the Nathan Drake Memorial Fund was set up in memory of Nathan who passed away the previous year after a sudden and devastating illness. Through the fund, the Barracudas are able to offer subsidized swim registrations to swimmers who might not otherwise have the opportunity or means to swim with the team.
When you donate to this fund, you are a part of continuing his legacy of helping neighborhood kids enjoy something he truly enjoyed.
Professional photos courtesy of and published with permission of R Scott Jackson Photography