GABE BARNARDLAUREN LIPPERT

2016 graduate Mallory Pugh has climbed her way to the top of the soccer totem pole. After scoring a goal in her debut game with the US Women’s National team (USWNT) on Jan. 23, 2016, Pugh exceeded expectations by earning a spot on the Olympic roster. To show support for Pugh’s journey to Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympic games, MVHS students and staff dressed in red, white, and blue.

Former teammate of Pugh, Shelby Unruh, 12, dressed up in a blue t-shirt and red Converse for the USA theme day. “It’s so exciting to see someone our age doing something so big,” Unruh said. “I’m so proud of her.”

As a former student, Pugh draws a large amount of encouragement from staff.

“I thought it was great,” English teacher Jason Fisher said. “To support a former student who is competing at the highest level in the Olympics was cool.”

Participating in the first spirit day of the school year, Sloan Hammond, 9, came to school sporting a t-shirt with the U.S. flag on it. “I was really excited to be a part of [the school picture] because I knew that Mal Pugh will appreciate what we did,” Hammond said.