Seventh grader Harper Cox and the Panther share a moment of joy, jumping up and down together. Student moderator Cleo Wilson (’26) said the courtyard was filled with cheers and laughter, as the school came together to support its athletes and show pride in the community. “I think, especially at an all girls school, it’s important to recognize everybody’s highlights in their season,” Wilson said, “and pay attention to the fact that girls are athletes too and that we are strong and powerful.”

The middle school basketball green team emerges from the student tunnel. Eliza Keston (’30) shared her perspective on the significance of the moment and why celebrations, such as the Winter Pep Rally are important. “I think [the pep rally] was important because it celebrates the Archer community,” Keston said. “It acknowledges the hard work put in throughout the season by everyone, in every sport.”

Varsity basketball senior Charlie Clayton steps out of the student tunnel. For many seniors, their final sports seasons mark an end of an era, filled with memories of teamwork, hard work and dedication. “It’s a mixed feeling, like happiness but also nervousness and anxiousness in a way, because I’ve only done this for four years,” Habtu said. “But, it has been an experience to have truly done and it’s all just getting to see what I have done this past year and seeing the improvements since the first year.” 

Members Sara Salehi (’26), Grace Ryan (’25) and Cleo Wilson (’26) of the Athletic Leadership Council moderate the Winter Pep Rally, where the focus is not only on celebrating athletic achievements but also on highlighting the importance of teamwork and leadership. “Archer really focuses on the team aspect of being on a team sport, not so much on winning and making the championship, although obviously that’s an important part of any high school sport,” Wilson said. “I signed up for the Athlete Leadership Council [for] my FLX block option, and wow, this is so fun to be able to see athletics from a different perspective and engage with the world of sports.”

Students watched their peers being acknowledged for their achievements in various sports. Habtu said the sense of community within Archer’s active programs creates an opportunity for individual growth and connections across all grade levels. “I just wanted to meet new people and make a lot of new friends. Dance is connected within this school — being closer with your dance team and the community that is brought within the company classes,” Habtu said. “It’s really getting to see the traditions that are going on through Archer dance, like seeing your [senior] acknowledgements, or the last showcase where they do a big take at the end.”

The middle school green soccer team stands on stage, as ALC recognizes their achievements this season. Due to an unexpectedly shortened season, caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, the soccer team played less games than usual. “We didn’t have a lot of games because our season was cut short a little,” Keston said, “But, it was still fun hanging out with friends.”

The varsity soccer players make their way through a tunnel of students who have gathered to celebrate their accomplishments. Wilson said the celebration is about more than just sports: It is about unity and collective recognition. “It’s also a great time for all of the students to come together, whether they’re involved in sports or not, and celebrate each other’s efforts. Wins or losses, it doesn’t matter,” Wilson said. “What matters is that everyone has put in their time and effort. It’s important to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of all students, regardless of the outcome. Everyone deserves recognition for their contributions.”