On Friday, February eighth, SWR students attended the Winter Pep Rally, hosted by senior David Lopez, with a motivational speech given by guest speaker Rohan Murphy. During the pep rally, students enjoyed a lip sync battle between Mia Lombardi, Eric Gulli, and David Lopez, followed by a dance performance from freshman Isabella Stewart and junior Brianna Montes.

As students sat awaiting the motivational speaker, they were surprised by Lombardi, Gulli, and Lopez as they dueled each other in song and dance.

“It was pretty fun to dance around and pretended to scream to one of my favorite songs,” Gulli commented.

“Kind of embarrassing,” Lombardi commented when asked how it felt to perform in front of the school.

Other performers, like the dancing duo, Stewart and Montes, had similar responses.

“I think we were nervous, but once you get up and start performing it, you’re doing what you practiced,” Montes said.

Despite their nerves, Guilli, Lombardi, Stewart, and Montes have no regrets.

“I want to do that at the next pep rally,” Stewart said.

Once the performances finished, students waited while a SmartBoard and gym mat were set up in front of them. Mr. Frank Pugliese, principal, then introduced the students to the guest motivational speaker, Rohan Murphy. Murphy gave a speech on his life and the hardships that he has faced without his legs. He was able to accomplish his goals through a supportive coach, personal independence, and never giving up.

Mr. Pugliese, who organized the Winter Pep Rally, was presented with the idea of a guest speaker by the Wildcat Athletic Club. Mr. Pugliese had heard of Rohan Murphy from following other high school sports.

This pep rally was one to remember.

To any future performers: “Don’t overthink it, and just do it, and wear onesies!” Montes said.

“Don’t care what other people think,” added Lombardi.