On Wednesday, Aug. 25, the Westside Athletic Club (WAC) hosted the annual Back to School BBQ. Although it was a little different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, WAC was still happy to host after it was cancelled last year.

WAC member Stacy Murphy was one of the leaders in charge of volunteer coordination at the BBQ. Murphy said that it was a great event and went well, even though there were some changes due to COVID-19. 

“We had to pivot and change the pep rally from the gym to the stadium, and people had to eat outside,” Murphy said. “I think it was a great event and super fun. We served 850 people dinner, but I think there were probably more at the pep rally.”

The pep rally included the recognition of all the Westside coaches and senior fall sport athletes. The seniors introduced themselves and the captains of each team talked about their season and what they’re looking forward to.

“I got to go in front of everyone and tell them about [cycling] and what it is and that they should come and support us,” Hugo Bowden, junior and captain of the cycling club, said. “I [also] thought [the BBQ] was really cool and I got to see all my friends, got to eat some free food [and] it was fun. The food was pretty good.” 

Senior Josh Rosenblatt, member of the tennis team, also introduced himself at the BBQ. Rosenblatt said the senior introductions, despite mess ups, were fun. 

“I felt like I was having fun and enjoyed time with the underclassmen,” Rosenblatt said. “It was nice to get recognized and funny hearing the other seniors mess up their part with the mic.”

Sophomore Stella Kohtz was also in attendance at the BBQ. Kohtz said the event is a great way to bring everyone together.

“I feel like this [tradition] is good for our school,” Kohtz said. “It was really fun.”