What is a Pep Squad?
The tradition of a pep squad as a support for sports teams is one that many people are familiar with. Pep squads exist for many different types of high school and college sports, most notably football. Essentially, a pep squad is a group of individuals who have the responsibility of motivating and promoting enthusiasm for a particular sports team before and during a sports competition. Here are a few facts about the pep squad and how pep squads are an integral part of the sports experience for many fans.
The use of the term pep squad varies to a degree from place to place. In some settings, the pep squad is considered to be the same as a cheerleading squad. Other locations see the pep squad as a separate entity from the cheerleaders, although they share a common purpose. This may lead to the pep squad being more of a dance team, performing more complicated routines that are usually associated with cheerleading. These dance teams are also sometimes identified as a drill squad or team.
Whether considered a part of the overall cheerleading team or as a companion group, the pep squad generally focuses on getting fans excited about their team of choice. The pep squad accomplishes this be involving the fans in verbal responses to motivational exclamations during a rally that takes place before a competition, as well as assisting the cheerleaders during the sports event. Often, the pep squad will employ elaborate dance routines that help to increase the spirit among the fans, getting the crowd motivated to yell and scream for the home team.
Being part of a pep squad usually requires a certain level of physical fitness, grace of movement, and the ability to master choreography quickly and easily. Since membership on a pep squad also required a firm commitment of time and effort, there is usually a requirement of maintaining a minimum grade point average as well. Most high schools and colleges that support pep squad participation tend to hold tryouts or auditions. Persons who demonstrate the abilities required are invited to join the pep squad, and begin the process of learning the routines immediately.
Generations of sports fans have delighted in the presence of the pep squad at college and high school games, noting their enthusiasm as being part of what makes live sports so much fun. As one of the more important traditions that help to keep sports such a huge part of the national heritage, the value of the pep squad cannot be underestimated.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
