Pep rally

A pep rally, pep assembly or pep session is a gathering of people, typically students of middle school, high school, and college age, before a school sporting event. The purpose of such a gathering is to encourage school spirit and to support members of the team. This is often done by wearing school colors or chanting school cheers. It is generally seen as an American and Canadian phenomenon, used to create hype before a sporting event.

A pep rally often occurs before homecoming, prom, or even regional or national games for the school. It is usually held inside a school gym or other large sporting arena in the area. In an attempt to boost enthusiasm before an event, pep rallies are usually very loud and energetic. They are used to encourage the team, enhance their spirits, and help them gain the confidence to perform their best. A pep rally helps a school team to know that they have their schools absolute support.

Often, businesses or speakers such a town mayor, law enforcement, or motivational speaker will come to promote their business or event happening in their field. A pep rally may also be held after a sporting event, perhaps to celebrate the success or win of a championship game.

During a pep rally, school sporting teams will make an appearance or participate in student-engaging activities. The school football team or cheerleaders may partner up to perform a dance or skit to make the audience laugh. These school sporting teams often wear their jerseys or uniforms to proudly represent the team they are a part of. Fun games to create laughter and joy during the pep rally take place to create a fun, enjoyable environment.

Pep rallies may also include flashy lights such as a strobe light or disco lights to draw the attention of the crowd. The students in attendance may be given t-shirts, pom poms, air horns, or any type of school promotional item to wave or use during the pep rally.

These school gathering can allow students feel included, have a sense of belonging, and even feel appreciated. No matter if the student participates in a sport or not, there is something for every student to love at a pep rally.

See also
 * Pep talk