It was the start of what we hope to be the most memorable school year yet at STA. The much-anticipated STA Celebration Day was held on Friday, September 24 and featured the return of several beloved STA traditions that were put on pause last year due to the pandemic.
In the morning, the school community gathered for mass in the gym-transformed-into-church. Principal Harry Ziegler called students’ attention to the school mission statement that has guided the STA throughout the years: service to others, faith in God, and resolve for excellence. The energy during mass was unmistakable as students joined in with the liturgical choir’s performance of students’ favorite mass hymns such as Trading My Sorrows and Big House.
In the afternoon, the student body took to the football stadium for one of the biggest and most invigorated pep rallies that the school has ever seen. Led by Student Council Athletic Chairperson Tyler Kadi ’22 and Master of Ceremonies Anthony D’Astoli ‘13, the student body collectively celebrated the athletic achievements of individuals and teams who are competing this fall. The event was highlighted by the marching band’s secret agent-inspired halftime performance, cheerleading routines, and gymnastics team acrobatics. The students were riled up with “We Are Aquinas” cheers, the wave, and the rollercoaster. The day concluded with time for the whole student body to eat and socialize outside while enjoying the beautiful fall day.
The exciting day was an opportunity for students to re-engage with STA traditions and build anticipation for the multitude of events both old and new that await them this school year.
