On game night, the spotlight is usually on the players on the court. However, the energy in the gym or stadium doesn’t come from the athletes alone. From the pep band blasting fight songs to the student section chanting in the stands, several groups work together to create the atmosphere that pushes the team forward.
At GRC, groups like cheerleaders, the JROTC color guard, the pep band, and the student section all play a role in shaping the environment of every game. While their contributions may look different, each group helps create the excitement, pride, and school spirit that define game nights.
“Cheerleaders are important to the overall game atmosphere because they help keep the energy alive, boost team morale, and make the event more entertaining for fans,” senior cheerleader Jazzlyn Arzola said. “Their presence brings excitement and encourages everyone to support the team with enthusiasm.”
They help guide the crowd’s energy by starting chants and encouraging fans to stay engaged throughout the game.
“Our enthusiasm is contagious, motivating fans to support the team and keep the atmosphere lively,” Arzola said.
While many focus on the action during the game, the JROTC color guard plays an important role before it begins
“These ceremonies bring the whole school together to show respect for the country and each other before the game starts,” said JROTC Executive Officer Josh Collins. “Having students lead the color guard builds school pride and reminds everyone to play with good sportsmanship.”
The JROTC brings a sense of respect and tradition to the event and reminds everyone that game nights are also community gatherings. But once the game begins, the pep band helps keep the energy high.
“The pep band is a vital part of increasing the excitement of the game,” junior tuba player Ryder Abner said. “We basically just enhance the spirit by our music.”
However, the noise doesn’t stop with the band. The student section often drives the atmosphere in the stands. Themed nights, chants, and coordinated cheering create a loud and supportive environment that players notice on the court.
“The student section brings the school body together in support of the GRC athletic teams,” Get Rowdy Crew leader Ryland Dixon said. “Without a student section, I believe that there would be no school spirit.”
While many groups help create the atmosphere in the stands, team managers help keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
“On the preparation aspect, I think they’re pretty important so it’s not so much on the players and the coaches when it comes to preparing before games or getting ready, ” GRC Hoops manager DaZyre Hooten said.
For players, the energy created by these groups can make a real difference during games.
“You always hear the band first thing, you see the cheers while you warm up before you come out with the starting lineup,” WinCity power forward Amari Bartelson said. “You do something good and you hear the crowd, it gives you momentum. I mean it makes you want to play harder.”
While the players may score the points, the environment around them is created by many others working behind the scenes. Together, these groups turn a regular game into a true school event, proving that sometimes the biggest impact comes from the teams behind the teams.
