Pep rally

A pep rally or pep assembly is a gathering of people, typically students of middle school, high school, and college age, before a sports event. The purpose of such a gathering is to encourage school spirit and to support members of the team. It is generally seen as an American phenomenon.[1]

A group of students cheering and clapping at their high school pep assembly.

At a pep rally, cheerleaders lead in very loud chants and dance moves intended to get the student body excited. Games between competing classes with small prizes may be held. The school's band often play upbeat music in between demonstrations, and the drumline may play. The school's choir may sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" to the crowd. In the case of a homecoming game, the Homecoming "court" may be chosen and announced.

This is also a time for the team captains to let the school know how their team are doing this season. Most schools have pep rallies to honor future and past events.

College basketball teams celebrate the opening of the season with Midnight Madness, an event similar to a pep rally.