Songs to Play Before a Match: Athlete-Approved Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks That Overflow with Power
At those crucial moments—like during daily practice or right before an important match—music stays by our side and gives us tremendous strength.
Many of you probably listen to your favorite songs to boost your spirits as you head into those special moments.
In this article, we’ve picked out uplifting, heart-stirring anthems that raise your motivation.
From upbeat tracks that fire up your fighting spirit, to relaxing numbers that wrap you in a sense of calm, to athletes’ personal favorites—we’ve gathered a wide variety of songs.
We hope you’ll find them helpful.
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[Songs to Play Before the Game] Beloved by Athletes Too!? Energizing Anthems & Pump-Up Tracks (11–20)
Small RevolutionSUPER BEAVER
A thrilling rock number brimming with a sense of speed! SUPER BEAVER’s passionate track was used as an insert song for the TV Asahi drama “MARS: The Zero Revolution,” coloring Part 2 of the series, the “Revenge Arc.” Featuring a powerful melody and dramatic development, it resonates deeply with listeners.
Included on the album “Music,” this song encapsulates all the experiences and emotions the band has accumulated throughout their career.
Carrying the message “Have the courage to transform yourself,” it’s a song that gives strength to those facing adversity.
Someday, these tearsLittle Glee Monster
An uplifting anthem by Little Glee Monster, brimming with passion and powerful harmonies that stir the heart.
Created as the support song for the 96th All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, this piece gives a push to all who are walking toward their dreams.
Included on the album “juice,” the song carries a message that the tears you’ve shed will one day turn into shining achievements.
When you want to get fired up before a match or for an important moment, listening to this track will fill you with courage and hope.
It’s a song that stays close to your heart and gives you tremendous strength.
The Zero Sense10-FEET
A thrilling rock number bursting with speed and energy! Included on 10-FEET’s ninth album Collins—their first in about five years—it was also chosen as the ending theme for the film THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, released on December 3, 2022.
Interweaving basketball terminology, the lyrics portray the mindset of young people facing unknown challenges through striking imagery.
The song drew wide attention, winning “Best Rock Video” at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan in 2023.
It’s a powerful track you’ll want to play before a crucial game—packed with a strong message that symbolizes the journey of chasing dreams and self-realization.
A flower that blooms only hereKobukuro
Before a match, many people prefer calming songs over intense ones to settle their nerves.
If you’re looking for that kind of music, I recommend Kobukuro’s “Koko ni Shika Sakanai Hana” (“A Flower That Blooms Only Here”).
Its tempo is gentle, and combined with lyrics that feel accepting and affirming, it can have a positive effect on your mindset before competing.
flash[Alexandros]
![flash[Alexandros]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/xfG6L9I7N8I/sddefault.jpg)
A song by [Alexandros] characterized by a driving rock sound and striking lyrics.
Released in May 2021 as their 19th single, it served as the theme song for the film Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway.
The track portrays the protagonist’s growth and inner conflict.
Symbolizing the band’s new lineup, it received high praise from many fans and won the JASRAC Bronze Award in May 2023.
It’s a perfect song for boosting your motivation before a game or when you’re about to take a new step forward.
Donʼt Mind Me (feat. Sota Hanamura from Da-iCE)Ayumi Imazu
Released in March 2023, this work was selected as the theme song for that year’s TBS professional baseball broadcasts, “S☆1 BASEBALL.” It’s a cheer song that gently nudges people who work hard every day, packed with positive energy that helps you relax your shoulders and move forward.
If you were an avid viewer of pro baseball, you probably heard it many times.
The song is performed by Ayumu Imazu, with a guest appearance by Sota Hanamura of Da-iCE—an impressively star-studded lineup.
It’s also recommended for anyone who wants a lift in their daily life, like during commuting to work or school.
A dependable track that makes you feel like living joyfully.
[Songs to Listen to Before a Match] Loved by Athletes Too!? Power-Packed Anthems and Pump-Up Tracks (21–30)
Endless JourneyMr.Children
A classic Mr.
Children song that has been sung continuously since its 1998 release.
It’s been used as a theme by many athletes—beloved enough to be adopted not only by global star Ichiro and Makoto Hasebe, but in recent years by Hanshin’s Shintaro Fujinami and Yakult’s Yuhei as well.
It moves you with a strength that fires you up—not just day to day, but especially when you need it most.
Hearing it live stirs something from deep within.
When it really counts, it will always give you strength!
