Sunday, October 30, 2011

Embracing School Pride: The 2011 Frostburg Pep Rally

By: Neffe Morris, ENGL 336:002

The 2011 Frostburg State University pep rally brought forth a lively atmosphere that was felt from the moment one entered the gymnasium. From the constant cheering of the cheerleaders and students, to the funky dance moves of the bobcat mascot, there was never a dull moment.

The DJ began by warming up the crowd with his different selection of music.  Music from the techno and hip-hop genres were used to add to the energetic environment.  People danced around in the bleachers and sang along to their favorites tunes when they were played. Every now and then, the DJ would also shout different phrases to enhance the hype.

After the DJ increased the mood with his choice of music, the cheerleaders helped maintain the energy with their different chants, cheers, jumping, and flipping.  They made sure to capture the attention of the audience at all times.  The two hosts of the event also assisted in energizing the audience.

The performance from the cheerleaders was the first of many that occurred that night.  Pure exuberance was felt through their cheering and chanting.  They awed the crowd with their many stunts and flipping.  They were even able to get the audience to clap along with them as they cheered.  “I love cheering and getting the crowd in the mood; it’s my favorite part of cheering,” explained cheerleader Darrell Smith.  

The pep rally officially began with the introduction of the different sports teams.  The hosts announced each team, and they entered through the middle space that was created by the cheerleader’s forming two lines.  The cross country team came out first, followed by the women’s soccer team, then swimming, track, and last but not least, the football team.  When the football team walked out, all eyes were glued to them.  The lights went out, and they marched out like a team filled with unity and passion.  They outnumbered all teams and caused many people in the audience to comment on their great size.  They were also dressed to impress in their full black uniforms.

After recognition was given to each hard-working sports team, it was time for fun and games. The first game required contestants to pull out as many tissues as possible from a tissue box. The crowd cheered and giggled while watching.  The next game involved the contestants to place an Oreo cookie over their eye and try to get it into their mouth without dropping it.  Now, this was quite the sight.  More giggles came from the crowd because of the complexity of the game.  No one was able to accomplish the task; one contestant even stopped and just began eating the cookies which made him win! Other games like tug a war, a dance off, and a pie tossing contest followed. 

Periodically throughout the event, raffle ticket numbers were read, and people won coupons to different restaurants, book store gift cards, and even an iPod shuffle. “I better win something,” laughed Frostburg senior Terrance Scott.

The Frostburg State dance team also grabbed the attention of the audience with their skilled dance moves.  Dr. Gibralter made an appearance as well and assisted in announcing homecoming king and queen.

School pride was in full effect at the 2011 pep rally; everyone in attendance was proud to be a bobcat.  Many seniors especially cherished the moment being that it would be their last pep rally.  “I cannot believe this is my last pep rally and homecoming, so I’m going to enjoy it to the fullest,” said senior Imani Dunigan. 

The excitement never left the place during the 2011 pep rally.  Everyone laughed, cheered, and had a great time.  It provided students with plenty of energy to begin their fun filled homecoming weekend. 

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