The first pep rally of the 2024-2025 school year occurred on Sep. 20, and it was one to remember. With new games and the freshman’s first graduation year chant, one could argue that this was a great beginning.
One of the fresh ideas was a breakdancing competition, which got people on their feet cheering and laughing. However, the volunteer contestants were nowhere near dance experts, and the result was quite humorous.
“The breakdancing was a good idea and it was also really funny to watch,” says Reagan Watson, a sophomore at Briar Woods.
However, not everyone agrees.
“I thought the breakdancing competition was a good idea until I saw the dancing,” says sophomore Natalie Posusney, “I thought [it] would be between people who can actually dance, not just someone who [volunteered].”
An event new to Briar Woods was the infamous hot dog eating contest, similar to Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest. This also faced some mixed reviews, but the majority would argue that it was not their favorite.
“To me, the hot dog eating contest was a little funny but also kind of gross,” says Jana Yi, a sophomore at Briar Woods.
Of course, there is also the ever present complaint of not being able to see any of the festivities, which sophomore Akshaya Gajula unfortunately experienced.
“I actually couldn’t see the hot dog eating contest from where I was,” she says, “The crowd was blocking the whole view from me.
Overall, the pep rally feedback was an average of just alright. While some left the gym feeling pumped and excited, still more left feeling disappointed.
“I usually like pep rallies,” explains Yi, “But this one wasn’t that fun compared to last years’ ones.”
“Honestly, pep rallies are not that fun,” agrees Posusney, “I understand it’s hard to come up with so many [different games], but I do think they could be a little better.”
Only time will tell if the pep rally for the winter season sports will be more pleasing for everyone, and perhaps finally get all the students excited and proud for their school.