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Wonderful sports day / athletic festival

[Friendship Song] Music to hype up sports days and athletic festivals

I think there are very many students who look forward to school sports days and athletic festivals.

On those days, you’ll have fun and smile, throw yourself into heated competitions, and even be moved to tears—truly a day packed with youthful memories.

At such a memorable sports day, you might also grow closer through practice and events, or deepen your friendships even more, don’t you think?

With that in mind, this article will introduce lots of recommended songs for a sports day with the theme of friendship!

I hope you find wonderful tracks to color your special day.

[Friendship Songs] Tracks to Energize Sports Days and Athletic Festivals (71–80)

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!
Mela!Ryokushokushakai

It’s a coming-of-age anthem packed with a burning desire to become a hero.

Born from a pure wish to help the precious friends right in front of you, the song vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they overcome doubt and inner conflict, believe in themselves, and take a step forward.

Included on the June 2020 album “SINGALONG,” it became a signature song for Ryokuoushoku Shakai.

In 2023, it turned into a massive hit, surpassing 300 million streams.

It’s the perfect track for school and culture festivals, giving you the courage to carve out your own story while holding onto your brightest memories.

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

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Is Youth Embarrassing?' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Hazukashiika Seishun wa
Is youth embarrassing, or is it youth if it's embarrassing?Ryokushokushakai

An uplifting anthem bursting with dazzling, radiant energy that illuminates every moment of youth! Released by Ryokuoushoku Shakai in July 2024, this song powerfully voices the earnest feelings and passion of young people.

Written as the theme for ABEMA’s original romance show “Kyo, Suki ni Narimashita: Summer Vacation 2024,” it’s also drawing attention for its music video featuring a grand collaboration with a 40-piece orchestra.

It’s a track that will resonate in your heart, coloring those irreplaceable moments spent with friends at school festivals and cultural fairs.

Heavy rotationAKB48

[MV full] Heavy Rotation / AKB48 [Official]
Heavy rotationAKB48

Beginning with a driving electric guitar and Yuko Oshima’s catchy callouts, this track stands out in idol pop for its exceptional sense of exhilaration.

Its straightforward declaration of love gives listeners a refreshing rush and stirs an irresistible urge to break into a run.

Released in August 2010, AKB48’s single, together with its music video directed by Mika Ninagawa—renowned for its vibrant, pop-infused visuals—left a lasting impression on many.

It’s perfect for moments like sports festivals and athletic events, where participants and spectators alike want to come together and get fired up.

[Friendship Songs] Tunes to Energize Your Sports Day or Athletic Festival (81–90)

Song Not to Forgetmakaroni enpitsu

A masterpiece of youthful pop-rock with a universal message.

Released by Macaroni Enpitsu in April 2024, this song powerfully sings about the daily lives of young people who shine as they overcome setbacks and failures.

It portrays the struggles of chasing dreams and the strength to rise above them, delivering an impact that resonates from the very first listen.

Created as the ending theme for the anime “Oblivion Battery,” it brilliantly captures the show’s worldview through music.

Also included on the EP “Bokura no Namida nara Sora ni Umeyou,” it has garnered support from a wide audience, not just anime fans.

With a strong rhythm and melody that work well even for group gymnastics at school sports festivals, it’s a perfect track for creating a sense of unity among large groups.

AcaciaBUMP OF CHICKEN

A song that extols the importance of friendship and bonds, it’s a moving piece that lets you feel a glimmer of hope even amid bittersweet emotions.

With its upbeat rhythm and memorable melody, it inspires listeners to look forward with positivity.

In September 2020, it became the theme song for the special Pokémon music video “GOTCHA!,” and BUMP OF CHICKEN’s warm vocals and performance captured the hearts of people across generations.

The message embedded in the encouraging, relatable lyrics makes it a perfect fit for group performances like coordinated gymnastics.

It’s recommended as a cheer song that will further elevate everyone’s spirit when uniting as one toward a common goal.

The Zero Sense10-FEET

10-FEET – The Zero Sense (Ending Theme Song of the Film 'THE FIRST SLAM DUNK')
The Zero Sense10-FEET

Created as the ending theme song for the film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, this track expresses the passion of pursuing dreams and the resolve to face hardships, all through the theme of basketball.

Its poetic lyrics skillfully weave in basketball terminology, and the signature high-energy rock sound of 10-FEET blends perfectly to heighten the film’s climax.

In December 2022, it was included on the album Collins and garnered major attention as the movie’s ending theme.

Symbolically portraying the doubts and traps players confront, the song vividly depicts the strength to overcome them and achieve one’s goals.

It’s a perfect addition to your playlist when you want to boost motivation during training or strengthen both mind and body.

Blue and SummerMrs. GREEN APPLE

A youthful pop tune, reflecting the cool hues of the sky and the summer sunlight, has arrived from Mrs.

GREEN APPLE.

Woven with exhilarating guitar riffs and a lyrical melody, this track heralds the beginning of summer.

Released in August 2018 as the theme song for the film “Ao-Natsu: Kimi ni Koi Shita 30-Nichi,” it portrays an honest, relatable first love and a longing for summer.

The song carefully expresses the emotions of falling in love with a season one once felt indifferent to, gradually discovering its charm, and carries a powerful message about believing in human connection.

Performed at the 75th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in December 2024, it has become a staple of the summer season.

It’s the perfect track for creating radiant memories of youth—like running along the seaside with friends and talking about love under a bright blue sky.