Whipped cream splotches on the shiny gym floor from the teacher pieing, barely-hanging posters pasted on the wall, pieces of confetti crushed on the cheer mats, echoes of the stomps from the step squad, the running feet of the football players, the hoots and hollers of a rowdy crowd — these are the remnants of the annual pep rally.
An exciting spirit week leads up to this day, filled with enthusiasm and school pride. The all-inclusive pep rally boasts activities ranging from student-teacher dance combos, musical chairs and the best-dressed contest to the sea of purple beaded necklaces and cheers for upperclassmen; everyone contributes to creating this buzzing environment.
“Pack the Den!” If you have ever been to a Boston Latin School sports game, then you have heard this saying before. It is used to encourage students to support and watch their peers at games, and filling the stands shows support for the athletes. Encouraging cheers carry importance amongst players because it builds morale and excitement, which gives motivation for the players to do their very best. BLS oozes with school pride, and it is an honor to wear purple.
Assistant Head of School Danielle Murray notes, “First thing that comes to mind when thinking about school spirit is the amazing communities that we have here; students support each other across so many different activities.”
The energy and atmosphere of the games are determined by how we show up for each other. If passionate students fill the section, the game experience becomes even more engaging. Unity is formed when unforgettable memories are made together.
This becomes even more relevant during Senior Nights. For the athletes, it is their last time on the home court. They have represented BLS for years, and this night is a celebration of their time donning the purple-and-white jersey. Abigail Rosenfield (I), a graduating member of the girls’ basketball team, discusses how her senior night made her feel, saying, “Walking onto my home court one last time, surrounded by those who have been part of my journey, made me realize how much this experience has shaped me. It wasn’t just a night of recognition; it was a reminder of the friendships and memories that will stay with me long after the final game.” Family and friends in the stands, posters strewn across the walls and a decorated home court mark an unforgettable night that student-athletes always feel proud to end with.
Our very own BLS step squad and cheerleading team are also key factors to building the atmosphere during home games. Even if they are not playing on the court, the members of these groups bring excitement to the players through their dedicated dancing, engaging moves and an enthusiastic presence.
Step squad member Ava Phan (III) talks about the hard work of the steppers: “We create our own new routines and steps every single year so it’s really exciting and fun for everyone to see what we have in store.” Not only do the step and cheerleading teams create unforgettable performances, they also never fail to ignite the crowd.
Spirit Week also increases student participation and brings them closer together. Whether it be Wacky Wednesday or Halloween, collectively dressing in a fashion with classmates encourages school pride.
As Assistant Head of School Murray claims, “The [Spirit Weeks] bring community, and people love to participate in them; it brings fun and comedy to school, and brings out creativity.”
These Spirit Days are times when students can feel a part of something that includes not just them, but the whole community. Spirit Weeks can also bring awareness to various clubs and cultures, including BLS Black Leaders Aspiring for Change and Knowledge and BLS Asian Students in Action. With fun themes, many are able to learn, experience and embrace the diverse cultures that make up BLS.
BLS school spirit is an essential part of creating a supportive and encouraging community, so it is important that we all join in, whether it be showing up at big games or even just wearing pajamas during Spirit Week. Everything we do builds a more welcoming community for everyone.
