[Sports Day Cheer Songs] A roundup of classic cheer anthems and recommended parody-song picks [2026]

William Tell OvertureRosshīni

[Yuri Simonov] William Tell Overture Gioachino Rossini: Opera “William Tell”, Overture (March of the Swiss Army)

Within the grand narrative woven by the orchestra, this masterpiece brilliantly fuses powerful imagery with rich musicality.

Rossini depicts natural scenes—from dawn to storm, then to a peaceful pastoral landscape—with meticulous tone colors, culminating in a heroic fanfare that captivates listeners with overwhelming force.

Since its Paris premiere in 1829, it has become a timeless classic, and has been adopted as the theme for Fuji TV’s “Ore-tachi Hyōkin-zoku” and the American series “The Lone Ranger.” Widely used as a staple BGM at sports festivals as well, its dynamic melodies stir the hearts of competitors and sweep audiences into a whirl of excitement—a truly splendid piece.

Critical HitRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – A Masterstroke [Official Music Video]

Overflowing with fiery passion and strength, this is the track RADWIMPS released to the world in December 2013 on the album “X to O to Tsumi to.” The protagonist, who can’t surpass their own expectations no matter how many regrets they pile up, is striking as they wrestle between ideals and reality yet still take a bold step forward by following their true feelings.

The music video—shot at Ageo Municipal Baseball Stadium in Saitama Prefecture with 1,500 extras—was directed by Takuro Okubo.

This work harmonizes Yojiro Noda’s poetic lyrics with the band’s powerful sound to stunning effect, capturing the hearts of many listeners and dominating the on-air charts at FM stations to take the No.

1 spot.

It’s a song that gives you a strong push on the back in those moments when you want to look ahead and dash forward with everything you’ve got—like the exit scene at a school sports day.

Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it’s embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa

This song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai vividly portrays the rush of sprinting through the fleeting moments of youth.

Released in July 2024, its uptempo sound and distinctive melodic lines resonate powerfully with young listeners.

It carries a message: there’s no need to be embarrassed about giving your all—treasure the experiences you can only have in this very moment.

The track is included on the album “Channel U” and was also chosen as the theme song for ABEMA’s original romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita.

Summer Vacation 2024.” It’s a perfect fit for scenes of coming together at school sports days or athletic events, making it an ideal choice as background music for group gymnastics as well.

strollInoue Azumi

[Azumi Inoue] I tried singing “Sanpo” from Studio Ghibli’s My Neighbor Totoro!

It’s important to approach events like tamaire (ball toss) and group gymnastics calmly, isn’t it? A perfect song for background music in such events is “Sanpo.” It was released in 1988 by female singer Azumi Inoue and was used as the opening theme for the animated film My Neighbor Totoro.

The song is memorable for its exciting, fun rhythm and melody.

Listening to its marching band-like arrangement makes you want to start marching! If you’re looking for BGM for a kindergarten or elementary school sports day, be sure to give it a listen.

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mutō

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Odoru Pompoko RinB.B. Kuīnzu

E-girls / Odoru Ponpokorin

Because it’s the opening theme of the popular anime “Chibi Maruko-chan” and has been used for many years, it’s widely known not just among children, making it easy to create parody lyrics.

Using it for dance-style events at sports days or for the entrance of lower-grade students makes things even cuter and more exciting.

Helloyama × bocchiboromaru

yama × Bocchi Boromaru “Hello” MV (TV anime “Pokémon” opening theme)

A heartwarming collaborative piece by yama and Bocchi Boromaru, brimming with positive energy as a rousing anthem.

It carries a message that awakens hope for the future and a spirit of adventure, with a simple yet powerful melody that resonates deeply.

The song is approachable for a wide audience and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon starting in October 2023.

In December 2023, it was released on CD in two formats: a standard edition and a limited-time production edition.

As a positive track that makes you want to sing along with someone, it’s perfect for cheering at sports days and athletic festivals.

Raise your voices together with friends under the blue sky, and it will surely become a wonderful memory.

NO MORE CRYD-51

NO MORE CRY/D-51

This song was used as the theme for the drama Gokusen and became a big hit.

It’s a signature track by the male duo D-51, released as their third single in 2005.

If you’re going to shed tears, let them be tears of joy, not sadness—many people can relate to those lyrics.

Sports days and athletic festivals, in particular, are events where everyone aims for victory together, and there are many parts that connect with the message of the song.

Let this song inspire you to move toward your goals with determination in your heart! By the way, it’s also a song that’s easy to make parody lyrics for.

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Araki Jakkan

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