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

Aim to be a Pokémon MasterMatsumoto Rika

Aim to be a Pokémon Master

A heart-pounding song filled with passion for dreams and adventure, highlighted by Rica Matsumoto’s powerful vocals.

It delivers a youthful, positive message, singing of the courage to face hardship and the bonds with friends—perfect for boosting excitement at school sports days and athletic festivals.

Released as a single in June 1997, it was used as the opening theme for a TV anime.

It won the Work Award at the Heisei Anisong Grand Prize and garnered widespread support, reaching as high as No.

7 on the Oricon charts.

Even when practice time is limited for a sports-day cheer song, its simple, easy-to-remember melody and lyrics mean the whole class can start singing it right away.

Maru Maru Mori MoriKaoru to Tomoki, tama ni Mukku.

Maru Maru Mori Mori! Video of Kaoru and Tomoki with choreography

This catchy song, sprinkled with bright, upbeat wordplay and rhythmic onomatopoeia, is a heartwarming track that gently embraces children’s growth and everyday joys.

Its simple, easy-to-remember melody and lyrics depicting familiar happiness resonate honestly with listeners.

Released in May 2011 as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Marumo no Okite,” it marked the debut of Kaoru to Tomoki, Tamani Mook.

It reached No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and also earned a spot in that year’s NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

With choreography everyone can enjoy and adorable vocals, it’s the perfect song not only as a cheer tune for sports days and athletic meets, but also for school events and any occasion where people want to get energized together.

superstarKetsumeishi

Ketsumeishi “Superstar”

This song celebrates recognizing the potential and talent hidden within yourself and letting them shine.

Its empowering message—that everyone has a unique brilliance—blends beautifully with the pop sound.

Ketsumeishi’s positive lyrics and catchy melody carry a warm, gentle push for listeners.

Released in November 2020, it was chosen as the theme song for the TV Asahi anime Crayon Shin-chan.

The music video, filmed in India, also captures the song’s bright and uplifting worldview.

It’s a perfect fit as a cheer song for school events like sports festivals, and for anyone seeking encouragement to discover their true self.

Heavy rotationAKB48

[MV full] Heavy Rotation / AKB48 [Official]

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.

A bouquet for meAdo

[Ado] Bouquet for Me Official Audio

A gently sung piece about self-affirmation and a forward-looking attitude was released by Ado in March 2025.

While empathizing with the feelings we experience in everyday life, it carries a message that encourages recognizing oneself and finding the courage to take a step toward tomorrow.

With a fresh melody crafted by HoneyWorks layered with Ado’s powerful yet delicate vocals, the result is a heartwarming track.

The song has been chosen as the new commercial theme for Coca-Cola’s canned coffee brand Georgia and is scheduled to be included on the album “Ado’s Best Album.” It’s a perfect tune to start your morning, to encourage someone, or to give yourself a boost of courage—and it will continue to brighten the hearts of many.

Miracle of BondsMAN WITH A MISSION×milet

MAN WITH A MISSION × milet “Kizuna no Kiseki” Music Video

A powerful rock sound that pierces the dark night and milet’s clear, transparent vocals make this collaboration with MAN WITH A MISSION unforgettable.

It unfolds a dramatic world of courage in the face of adversity and the bonds shared with cherished companions.

Released in May 2023, it drew attention as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Swordsmith Village Arc.

Portraying friends joining forces and taking steady steps toward their dreams, this track is sure to stir the heart as march music for sports festivals and field days, or as uplifting BGM for performances.

Kono Yubi Tomareyosugala

Yosugala – Kono Yubi Tomare

In this new work by yosugala, a single ray of light and a warm, empathetic singing voice strike straight to the heart.

It’s a song that conveys, with unwavering sincerity, the desire to believe in someone’s inner radiance and to support them.

Crafted as an anthem that stands beside those feeling setbacks or loneliness and gently nudges them forward, it was first performed at LINE CUBE SHIBUYA in February 2025 and released the following March, with lyrics and composition by members of the band AliA.

It will surely resonate deeply with people giving their all on their own and with students running toward their dreams.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to with your friends when you’re worn out from sports day practice, feeling nervous before the main event, or in need of a lift.