Warrior Pride Shines at Winter & Spring Sports Pep Rally
Championship rings sparkled, the beats were pumping, and Warrior pride was at an all-time high at the Winter & Spring Sports Pep Rally on Monday, February 17, at The Wall in Lake Forest, Calif. This electrifying event united athletes, coaches, and fans in a celebration of nine powerhouse Westcliff Athletics programs, including men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s wrestling, surf, cheer, softball, baseball, and men’s volleyball. It was an event to honor past triumphs and fuel the fire for the season ahead.
Hyped for the Season Ahead
“It’s incredible to feel that energy and be in an environment where we’re all chasing goals and titles,” said D’Rell Gist, head coach of women’s wrestling. “Having everyone come together to celebrate the school and kick off the season — that’s what it’s all about.”
The Warriors had plenty to celebrate. One of the afternoon’s most epic moments? The men’s volleyball championship ring ceremony. With their hard-earned Cal Pac title in hand, the reigning champs received their rings, a symbol of their dominance on the court.
“It’s an unreal feeling to win and make it to nationals for the first time,” said Tom Dempsey, men’s volleyball outside hitter. “Finishing eighth in the country was huge, and we’re ready to build on that momentum this season.”
Champions in the Spotlight
As the DJ spun Kendrick Lamar and SZA hits, the energy kept building. More champions took center stage, including Westcliff’s cheer team, fresh off their massive victory as the 2025 USA Collegiate Champions in the Large Co-ed Show Cheer Advanced division.
Not to be outdone, Westcliff’s surf team, led by star surfers Taylor Stacy and Jordy Collins, had been tearing up the waves with podium finishes across California — taking first in Oceanside and back-to-back second-place finishes, one each in Santa Cruz and Huntington Beach.
“Coming off a weekend like we just had, with three podium finishes, it just adds to the excitement of this season,” said Lucas Taub, head coach of surf. “And it’s not just us — cheer was doing its thing, making podiums and winning championships, too. Our sports are growing, and we’re winning. We’re succeeding.”
From Humble Beginnings to Powerhouse Status
The rally wasn’t just about celebrating wins—it was also a moment to reflect on how far Westcliff Athletics has come in just six years. Associate Athletics Director Michael Hardaway summed it up perfectly:
“We started with no Nike uniforms, no fancy gear—none of that. But there was a vision; a dream of where this program could go. Now, we’ve got athletes from nearly every U.S. state and around the world. That’s the power of dedication and belief.”
The Warriors Are Just Getting Started
With the season heating up, now’s the time to rally behind our student-athletes as they push for even bigger wins. Whether they’re battling it out on the court, tearing up the mat, or dominating the waves, the Warriors are on a mission to make this season unforgettable.
Don’t miss a moment—stay locked in on upcoming athletics events by visiting the Westcliff Athletics website.
Go Warriors!