Before students head off to winter break, we rejoice at the coveted Winter Pep rally. Kicking off the event, Gretchen Goble, Molli Geiger and Monica Chetwin sang the national anthem. Following them, the sophomore Jackson sisters performed a song they wrote themselves.
As always, members of the winter sports teams were recognized in front of the student body. Some acted out short skits, such as the hockey team and girls varsity basketball, whilst others simply announced their team members.
However, the main event according to many was the appearance of two Syracuse men’s basketball players Rakeem Christmas and Kris Joseph. The two starters for the number one ranked Orange joined the boy’s varsity basketball team in a game of knockout, as well as other basketball activities. Also judging the ‘class noise competition’ in which some students of the winning class received signed SU tee shirts.
When asked about coming to visit LHS, SU senior forward Joseph said “It’s always good to give back to the community cause these students have been cheering for us for years now and it’s always good to give back”
Joseph also believes the team will continue its success heading into conference play “Yeah I don’t see why not, it’s better competition but we’re ready for it and it’s going to be tough obviously, in the Big East nothing’s easy and we’re ready”
The local celebrities continually signed shirts and posters, as well as took pictures with all students and staff.
This year’s winter pep rally was full of excitement and fun as students prepared to enter their holiday break.

SU basketball players Kris Joseph and Rakeem Christmas address LHS students (Photo by Katie Rankin)