6 Ways Cheerleaders Can Raise School Spirit at Football Games

Your energy sets the tone for the entire crowd!

When the stadium lights come on and your team takes the field, it’s not just a football game; it's your team’s time to ignite the crowd. Raising school spirit isn’t just about shouting loudly; it’s about engaging the fans, connecting with your school, and making the game experience unforgettable.

Here are 6 creative ways your cheerleaders can bring the energy and raise spirit at football games:

1. Run a “Theme Night” Spirit Campaign

Everyone loves a good theme, especially students. Work with your student council or leadership team to promote weekly themes like:

• Neon Night
• USA Spirit
• Jersey Night
• Pink Out (for breast cancer awareness)
• Hawaiian Luau

Tip: Create matching signs, cheers, and simple props (sunglasses, leis, face paint) to amplify the theme from the sideline.

2. Use Spirit Signs That Engage the Crowd

Spirit signs aren't just props; they're crowd tools. Create double-sided or flip signs with words like:

• “Get Loud!”
• “GO FIGHT WIN”
• “Defense”

Tip: Big, bold lettering with glitter or neon makes them easier to see—even from the stands!

3. Engage the Student Section

Engage your student section by first letting some of the leaders know what you plan to do.

Examples:

• “Wave your phone flashlight when we get a first down!”
• “Spirit Battle” between grade levels
• Play games such as ring toss. Put a flyer in a prep and give inflatable intertubes to your crowd to toss over your flyer.

Tip: Give your captains the mic (if allowed) or have your announcer announce what you are doing and let them lead the chant or challenge between plays.

4. Create a Giveaway or Toss Prizes into the Stands

Who doesn’t love free stuff? Plan a fun halftime or quarter-break toss of:

• School wristbands
• Mini footballs
• Custom cheer buttons
• Spirit tattoos or stickers

Tip: Fundraise with local sponsors to cover the cost or co-brand giveaways!

5. Plan Stunt Elites and Pyramids that WOW

A quick pyramid or synchronized stunt sequence always gets a reaction! This is a great opportunity to practice your competition stunts and pyramid.

Plan one to two “wow” stunts and pyramids for:

• Timeouts
• End of quarters
• Before kickoff

Tip: Keep it safe, sharp, and crowd-friendly. Add a chant or sign to engage fans while your team performs.

6. Hype Tunnel & Fan Interaction Before the Game

Start the game with a cheerleader-made run-through tunnel using pom poms, flags, and signs as the football team enters the field. Consider having your fans be part of forming the tunnel. Then walk the stands or fence line during pre-game and:

• Give high fives
• Teach a quick chant to students
• Hand out mini flyers with cheer words listed

Remember, spirit starts before the whistle blows.

Final Thoughts

Being a cheerleader isn’t just about performing; it's about leading school spirit. With a little creativity, your squad can become the heartbeat of the game-day atmosphere. Remember: fans might not remember the final score, but they will remember the energy your team brought!