Ever since the Headmaster’s Cup was canceled a few years ago, the all-school convocation pep rally in the spring has also been taken away. Subsequently, the energy in the atmosphere during all-school convos has slowly declined. Students have expressed their unhappiness about this. As a result, the Deans and the Jolly Rogers club set out to organize the first-ever Jolly Rogers Jamboree Pep Rally!
They succeeded beyond all expectations.
As Middle and Upper Division students walked into the Straz Family Field House, they were greeted with the triumphant melody of the Berkeley Fight Song, performed by the Berkeley Band.
First on the agenda was a spirit contest: Middle Division vs. Upper Division. Middle and Upper would yell “Go!” “Bucs!” respectively, followed by a “Blue!” “White!” Unfortunately, Upper Division was still a little tired from their morning, and Middle Division proved dominant.
Next up was an Oreo-eating contest. Eight chairs were lined up on the basketball court, and both students and faculty members were called up. The challenge? Get an Oreo from your forehead into your mouth without using your hands. It was a truly hilarious game, filled with loud cheers and equally noisy groans.
The Middle Division and Upper Division cheerleaders also performed an energetic routine to the Berkeley Fight Song, adding to the already swelling energy in the room.
To wrap it all up, the event concluded with another round of Middle v. Upper chants of “Go!” “Bucs!” “Blue!” “White!” As each division shouted its word, their intense energy and complete unity truly felt tangible. The energy resonated all over the school and continued to spread throughout the day. Anastasia Saravanos ’29 said, “The Headmaster’s Jamboree was such a fun way to start the year! The energy in the gym was amazing, and everyone seemed so excited to be together and celebrate the start of the school year. Moments like that really show how strong the Berkeley spirit is and how supportive our community can be. I’m so grateful to be a part of it.”
The first-ever Jolly Rogers Jamboree Pep Rally was an incredible success! Before the event, Upper Division Associate Director Mrs. Caroline Lindsey hinted that the Deans might bring back pep rallies if they gain popularity. Given the electric atmosphere and enthusiasm, it looks like a new tradition just might be here to stay!
