On April 20, JP Stevens held its annual spring pep rally. Featuring various spring athletes and being the final pep rally of the year, this event was highly anticipated. The fall, winter, and spring pep rallies all generate support for the athletes as they run across the track or gym and receive cheers from the spectators. As a school tradition, pep rallies are the perfect way to honor the dedication of our students and channel school spirit. 

The excitement of the pep rally developed early on as many athletes wore their jerseys to school, representing their respective sports. These sports included baseball, softball, boys volleyball, lacrosse, track, golf, and boys tennis. The buzz surrounding the pep rally continued throughout the school day as 11th period approached and the athletes got ready. More importantly, many students were eager to see their friends represent the various athletic teams. 

The pep rally started with an evacuation drill that brought all the students to the football field and the enclosing track. Soon afterward, the athletes dispersed to their designated area, and the spectators filed up the bleachers. Music such as I Just Wanna Rock by Lil Uzi Vert blasted through the speakers, getting the athletes and their supporters excited about the upcoming event.  

To start the pep rally was the track team. The varsity track stars ran first, with their names being individually called. The rest of the track team followed afterwards, running to the finish line. Cheers from students and teachers filled the bleachers, truly commemorating the spirit of this pep rally.  The JP track team has certainly put forth much energy this season, placing 4th in the GMC Relay Tournament. 

“Running in the freshman GMCs was a nerve-racking experience but it was worth it when I placed 6th,” said freshman Saura Nahar. “I am very happy to be a part of the team and enjoy coming to practice every day!”  

The girls and boys golf teams ran next. Laughter erupted as Mr. Martinez, one of the history teachers, took on a mini-game of golf with a student and the hawk mascot. 

The boys volleyball, softball, baseball, and lacrosse teams ran afterward with pairs of varsity players demonstrating various elaborate handshakes and dances. First, the boys varsity volleyball team was announced, demonstrating tricks with a volleyball. Although the junior varsity and freshman teams for the sports were not acknowledged individually, they were equally celebrated as they had the opportunity to run, receiving cheers from their supporters in the bleachers.

Next, many of the girls on the lacrosse team had their lacrosse sticks in hand, performing handshakes that showcased their lacrosse pride.

 Joining a sports team has served as an amazing experience for many student-athletes, who were allowed to continue playing their cherished sport and meet wonderful new people.

 “Being on this team has given me the opportunity to meet some of my best friends and given me some great memories,” said junior lacrosse goalie Sriya Potturu. “My favorite memory was when the team surprised me with a poster and balloons for getting my 100th save.” 

The event concluded with a spellbinding performance from the JPS Dance Ensemble. The group of talented dancers performed to a medley of songs that channeled the energy that they had put forth into practice for many months. The school’s dance program continues to be a cherished athletic and extracurricular department for many of the students, allowing for a platform of expression and passion. 

“Watching the growth of our school’s dance team as the captain for the past two years has been beyond rewarding,” said senior captain Tanusri Ramakrishnan. “I am forever grateful to have led this team of talented dancers and hope to see the dance program continue to flourish.” 

Ultimately, the JPS Spring Pep Rally succeeded in generating support for its athletic programs and students. Student-athletes, especially the seniors who cherished their last few months of high school, had the opportunity to connect with each other. The spring pep rally was certainly a day for all students and staff to remember.