Every school has them and especially in the fall…traditions. The Rams are no exception and are off to a great start. Team preparation includes everything from off the field team building to a pre-game work-out or team huddle, you name it, you will find enthusiasm everywhere you turn at the home of the Rams this season.

There is an abundance of excitement from the stands with a spirited student section, wearing coordinated matching “white out” shirts or tie dye theme, singing popular chants to cheer on their favorite teams.

There are also “no exception” traditions, such as athletes warming up to motivational music (often produced by GHS’ technology teacher Adam Parvanta in coordination with team captains). The starting lineup includes ceremonial high fives and handshakes with teammates and opponents for good luck. The team huddle then sets the tone for the rest of the game – each sport choosing an authentic way.

Prior to game day, many GHS families host team dinners, this is a tradition that has been carried on for at least two decades. It is a great way to build friendships and tightknit bonds off the field, building trust for on the field play.

The Girls Varsity team recently got together during a stormy night not allowing anything to deter their routine. The team is on a hot streak and beat Windham in a nailbiter. Kaitlyn Nichols scored with 21 seconds remaining to secure the 1-0 win. Gorham is now 7-0 and ranked #1. The Field Hockey team is off to big marginal wins and on Sept. 28 the team will be hosting their “purple day” to bring to light mental health awareness; showing the true meaning of how teams can work better together.

The easy part is starting traditions, but as each new season gets underway and playoffs approach, coaches, school staff, parents, athletes and fans must be willing to put the effort in to keep them going. A good example of this is that of Golf; athletes often travel several times to Natanis (the course that hosts the state championship match) to familiarize themselves with the course. A special tradition: the Rams Football team (led by coach Sam Morrison) organizes and hosts a teacher appreciation night.

In the past, during play-off time the Rams could get very creative and motivated. A personal favorite of past alumni for the Boys’ Varsity Soccer team is getting together to create “Game Day” hairstyles such as the legendary mohawk they rocked for many years. In addition, other teams have done cornrows on the side of their head and dyed their hair.

A few alumni athletes expressed, “it was a really fun experience for all of us, and it’s all part of the post season team bonding experience that has been around for years.” Fall sports bring fun and excitement, homecomings, fireworks, community togetherness and most importantly school pride.