Cheer songs to hype up the sports day! A collection of motivational tracks recommended for kids

Golden SoulShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Golden Soul” MUSIC VIDEO

When it comes to songs that heighten the excitement of a heated sports day, “Ougon Tamashii” (Golden Soul) tops the list.

Released in 2008 by Shonan no Kaze, a music group known for their unique reggae-based sound, the song portrays the importance of moving forward without losing heart, no matter what happens.

Its lyrics and sound resonate with words of strength that lift you up even when you feel like giving up during events like tug-of-war, relays, or ball toss.

Try incorporating this rousing cheer song to encourage your classmates and cherished teammates as they give it their all.

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mutō

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InfernoMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE – Inferno

This song, used as the opening theme for the anime Fire Force, conveys a sense of speed from the very first drum beats and a feeling that something is about to begin.

In events where momentum is crucial—like cavalry battles—it will surely boost athletes’ motivation with a “Let’s go!” spirit.

In fact, the song encapsulates both transience and passion, asking what meaning we find in a life that will one day end and how we live with that awareness.

It’s an ideal track for spending your school days—a youth that will inevitably come to an end—with burning intensity.

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kojifumi

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VertigoMAN WITH A MISSION

MAN WITH A MISSION「Vertigo」

This track is striking for its tense, adrenaline-charged sound and English lyrics that portray a dizzying sense of chaos.

Released by MAN WITH A MISSION in March 2025, the song sounds an alarm about a modern society where the line between right and wrong has grown blurred.

Written and composed by member Jean-Ken Johnny, it powerfully depicts people being swept up by information and desire.

It was also selected as a promotional song for the near-futuristic sci-fi mecha game “Mecha BREAK.” Blending a strong message with an energetic sound, this piece is recommended for anyone looking to fire up their spirit at school sports days or athletic festivals.

winding roadNovelbright

Novelbright – Winding Road [Official Music Video]

Carrying honest feelings and hope in its lyrics, Novelbright’s refreshing cheer song was born in January 2025.

Set to a grand melody and the band’s performance, the courage to overcome life’s hardships resonates deeply in the heart.

The song has been chosen as the theme for the TV Tokyo drama “Dragon of the Court,” and with vocalist Yudai Takenaka’s warm voice, it gently stands by listeners, as if watching over the growth of young people.

I believe it’s a song that gives a powerful push to those who, standing at life’s crossroads, keep moving forward despite their worries.

Brimming with youthful energy, it’s perfect for boosting your spirits before a school sports festival or athletic meet.

C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK

ONE OK ROCK – C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h. [Official Music Video]

This is a powerful song that celebrates youthful passion and friendship, included on the album “Zankyō Reference,” released in October 2011.

Within its heavy sound that fuses metalcore and post-hardcore, ONE OK ROCK’s signature refreshing melodies shine through.

It portrays the earnest determination of young people who, carrying the bonds and memories shared with their friends, move forward into the future.

The track was also used as the ending theme for the TV program “To the Top of the Earth: Fumita Kuriki’s New Challenge.” It’s a perfect choice as BGM for school sports days and athletic festivals, resonating deeply with teammates who sweat together and encourage one another.

FRIENDS!!!imase

【imase】FRIENDS!!!（MV）

Set to a light, breezy melody, this heartwarming coming-of-age song celebrates the importance of friendship.

A groovy rhythm and the gentle vocals of imase, an artist from Gifu Prefecture, weave an exquisite harmony that carefully depicts reunions with friends, the subtle distances between hearts, and the feelings toward an unchanging bond.

Released in February 2025 as the theme song for the collaboration project “Everyone’s Concert” by the live communication app Pococha and Yamaha Corporation, the piece also features a special video with over 120 performers, proposing new ways to forge connections through music.

It’s perfect not only as BGM for school sports festivals and athletic meets, but also as a track to brighten any playlist capturing pages of youth spent with friends.

Music Collection for Sports Day: Go Go GoZama Yoshihiro

Music Collection for Sports Day: Go Go Go / Yoshihiro Zama (BBMS-83006)

This is a collection of pieces that set the perfect mood for each scene, from the brass band’s essential, dazzling fanfares at sports festivals to the excitement during events.

Performed powerfully by the JGSDF Eastern Army Band, it includes music suitable for various moments such as opening and closing ceremonies and award presentations.

Arranged by trombonist and composer Yoshihiro Zama, the album centers on bright, lively marches and fanfares, featuring a rhythmic and dynamic structure.

Introduced at the 2015 Japan Band Directors Clinic, it’s a highly practical album widely used by educational institutions nationwide and at community events.

It’s an ideal choice not only for those planning and managing sports days, but also for anyone considering music for sporting events.