Arguably the most important and most exciting weekend of the school year? Homecoming, for sure!
There’s no doubt that Homecoming brings the hype to Fallston. From the creative proposals to the spray tans and pre-dance brunch plans, it feels like a holiday. But let’s be honest; we’re skipping over the best part of it all: THE PEP RALLY!
The Homecoming Pep Rally is a Fallston classic with energy, chaos, fall athletes, and of course your very own Pep Squad bringing the spirit. But with every great tradition, there are some pros and cons, and a few unforgettable moments. I have created my list.
Saving the best for last, let’s start with the cons.
First up is the post-rally struggle. While it’s always entertaining to see your favorite (or least favorite) teacher get pied in the face, there’s nothing fun about trying to escape the gym afterward. It turns into a human traffic jam of glitter from the girls’ handmade shirts (another adorable tradition I’m here for), yelling, and pure chaos. If you’re claustrophobic, good luck. Just keep your head up and walk fast (please).
Next, everyone’s favorite, the freshmen. It might just be nerves but come on; the school spirit is seriously lacking. We love you guys, but you’ve got to step it up. It’s called pep rally for a reason. Do better.
And finally, the heat. Fallston is blessed with a beautiful gym with great bleachers. However, when the whole school is in there and you are crammed with the rest of your graduating class, it gets extremely hot and you are bound to break a sweat or get a migraine.
Nonetheless, it is still fun.
Now for the pros, because there are plenty.
The pep rally always kicks off with an incredible performance from the Cougar Cheer Squad. Those girls practice nonstop, and it shows. The stunts, the energy, the confidence, it all brings instant chills. I am here for it.
Then come the games: chaotic, ridiculous, and absolutely hilarious. My personal favorite? Hungry Hungry Hippos, for sure. A timeless game that never fails to give the crowd a good laugh. Honorable mention: Tick Tack Toe; always causing a stir between the classes. It’s comical.
And of course, dance battles. I will never forget my freshman year when Harper Canatella and Gabi Curriden went up against Mrs. Canatella and Ms. Gilson. It was adorable and they slayed.
Last but not least, it’s always awesome seeing our fall athletes get their spotlight. They put in the work, they bring the wins, and they deserve the cheers.
At the end of the day, no matter how sweaty, loud, or chaotic it gets, the pep rally is our chaos. It’s the kind that brings everyone together, even for just an hour. So next time the music starts blasting and the crowd goes wild, grab your friends, DO THE CHEERS, and remember it’s not Fallston Homecoming without its great tradition: the pep rally!
