For the past several years, Ouachita and Henderson have collaborated with KATV to host a joint pep rally the Friday morning before the Battle of the Ravine. Past pep rallies have proven to be very successful, and this year should be nothing less. While the rivalry between Ouachita and Henderson lives on, the pep rally is an opportunity for fans and students from both sides to express pride for their school in a friendly manner. Supporters of the two teams will gather by 5:30 a.m. tomorrow.
With the Battle of the Ravine known to be one of college football’s oldest rivalries, beginning in 1895, this game proves to be one of the most anticipated events every year at Ouachita. While the pep rally is broadcast across the state, it is a perfect opportunity to showcase Ouachita and to highlight the long-standing rivalry.
Students are encouraged to show up and express the love they have for their Tigers. Both Henderson’s band and Ouachita’s band will be performing, along with the cheerleaders from each school and, of course, the Tiger mascots will be on the scene to represent the spirit of Ouachita as well.
Not only will the Ouachita band and cheerleaders be performing, but KATV will also be interviewing President Ben Sells, Athletic Director David Sharp and student leaders. With this being President Sells’ first year at Ouachita, the pep rally and Battle of the Ravine will be a new experience for him. This is another great reason for students to show up and show their school spirit and represent what it means to be a Tiger.
Ouachita’s social clubs, student organizations and students are encouraged to come and express their Tiger spirit. They will make posters, bring banners and express their creative side while showing support for their favorite team. Students are also encouraged to wear Ouachita’s colors of purple and gold while cheering on the Tigers at the pep rally.
Tradition plays an important role at Ouachita, and the Battle of the Ravine is one of the oldest and most significant traditions.
The pep rally is always broadcast from the stadium of the home team, which will be Henderson’s Carpenter- Haygood Stadium this year.
While many students will be participating in late night activities this week, such as the guarding of the Tiger, pep ralley participants will set their alarm clocks early. Students will arrive around 5:30- 6 a.m. with filming beginning around 6 a.m.
By Ashlynn Morton, staff writer
