COUNT ON US.

This saying has become a reality among Spartan Students. No matter how much we complain about how bad our school looks or feels, when a fellow Spartan is in need, we will come together and be there for each other.

Senior Jordan Trunfio has been playing football for WS since his freshman year; he was planning on playing center on the offensive line until he heard the news, news that has completely changed his life.

Last March, Trunfio was diagnosed with stage 3 brain cancer. It is times like these that we as fellow Spartans come together to encourage one of our friends.

“It’s weird thinking that last year at this time we were joking around in history class, a lot changes in a year,” said senior Quincey Dean.

The football team has come together and promised to make the season special, dedicating the season to him. So far the squad is 2-0 and looks to continue rolling. The team has not been alone in its support. Friday night, hundreds of students, in full Spartan garb, showed their support for Trunfio. With many posters with the number “58” along with drums and body paint, the Spartans came in with tons of spirit, and left without their voices.

The crowd rallied around the team as they trounced Robinson 38-14. The players have found modivation in Trunfio and his situation.

“He motivates us to not give up because you know he is not, and would do anything to be out there on the field,” said senior captain Dominic Esposito.

The support extends to underclassmen as well. Although some of the underclassmen may not know Trunfio, they know of his situation and want to do their part in making the season special by giving everything they’ve got.

“I think it helps us play with more intensity and heart. It makes us take even greater pride in Spartan Football,” said sophomore Jameel Ndiaye.

Trunfio’s situation has even reached people with an influence in the football world. Recently, former Steelers running back Jerome Bettis came and visited Trunfio and the football team. “The Bus” talked about hard work and determination. He also met with Trunfio one-on-one and talked to him extensively. With Bettis visiting, the team got the message.

“He basically told us to go out there and open a can of whoop ass on all the teams we play,” said Esposito.

With the squad performing at such a high level, the team looks to continue rolling and looks to stay undefeated. This goes to show that no matter what, the Spartans will always support one another.

“We are definitely using his situatioin as motivation, we really want to make this season special, and I think it will be,” said senior Jonathan Dunn.

After the game, twitter was live with support for Trunfio. People were tweeting their support for him and spreading the word and encouraging others to do the same. Potentially the most memorable belongs to senior Colin McGavin.

“Body paint: $3.99, Entry fee: $5.00, Giving one of our most beloved Spartans a night he wont ever forget: Priceless #weloveJordan #58”