IGN:
usersmiski
Title of your suggestion:
A 'Fused' Style Alternative for Cheerleading: Westernised vs Ōendan
Describe your suggestion:
HALLO! Going back on the suggestion to introduce Ōendan as an alternative to the more Westernised cheerleading style (credit to Touring) is a great idea, especially given our server’s setting in Japan. Ōendan has significant cultural roots, discipline and shows traditional Japanese school pride. It represents a distinct form of cheering that relies on strong vocal projection, rhythmic clapping, synchronised movements and the classic 'gakuran' uniforms. It would truly add an extra depth to our sense of traditionalism that we aim to achieve in lore and as the general environment for Norowarejima.
HOWEVER....
It’s also important to acknowledge that 'Westernised' cheerleading has become the most commonly seen form of school spirit in modern Japanese settings. While traditional Ōendan still exists, especially at high schools with long standing traditions, the majority of Japanese schools today - particularly urban and private academies, have either adopted or merged Western cheerleading elements. This includes pom-poms, stunts, dance routines, and brightly coloured uniforms. Many modern Japanese cheer squads blend both styles to create performances that are both entertaining and targeted to a broader audience.
From a RP perspective, I think it's really important to consider the expectations and familiarity of our player base. Many of our community members are used to the dynamic, visually appealing performances associated with Western cheerleading that include high energy routines, colourful uniforms, and a sense of personality and flair. While Ōendan carries powerful cultural symbolism, its highly regimented and serious tone may not immediately resonate with players who are more accustomed to expressive and character driven performances. While mostly culturally accurate, it might feel too rigid or unfamiliar for many of our players. We want to ensure our cheer team remains approachable, fun and inclusive for everyone participating.
But genuinely, I think we could achieve the best of both worlds rather than going 'all in' on one style. I think keeping the Westernised foundation allows for more creativity and player expression - while the traditional elements of Ōendan can give it that cultural balance. I know in past communities cheer teams sometimes ended up tied to the “mean girls” trope, where players felt too anxious to try out or even felt singled out OOCly. That’s definitely not the direction YRP will take. With the possibility of a more stricter school setting and modest, regulated uniforms, the team would focus on discipline (That is also not to say that rivalry is off the table, there is definitely a way about that within a respectful manner) and school spirit rather than social status or appearance. This approach keeps the fun, performative energy of Western cheer but reframes it into something that fits the tone of a Japanese school environment.
Even after speaking with another member of staff, the idea of even just having modest uniforms and Japanese music styles such as 'Gyaru' for routines or translated songs would be more beneficial for YRP!
usersmiski
Title of your suggestion:
A 'Fused' Style Alternative for Cheerleading: Westernised vs Ōendan
Describe your suggestion:
HALLO! Going back on the suggestion to introduce Ōendan as an alternative to the more Westernised cheerleading style (credit to Touring) is a great idea, especially given our server’s setting in Japan. Ōendan has significant cultural roots, discipline and shows traditional Japanese school pride. It represents a distinct form of cheering that relies on strong vocal projection, rhythmic clapping, synchronised movements and the classic 'gakuran' uniforms. It would truly add an extra depth to our sense of traditionalism that we aim to achieve in lore and as the general environment for Norowarejima.
HOWEVER....
It’s also important to acknowledge that 'Westernised' cheerleading has become the most commonly seen form of school spirit in modern Japanese settings. While traditional Ōendan still exists, especially at high schools with long standing traditions, the majority of Japanese schools today - particularly urban and private academies, have either adopted or merged Western cheerleading elements. This includes pom-poms, stunts, dance routines, and brightly coloured uniforms. Many modern Japanese cheer squads blend both styles to create performances that are both entertaining and targeted to a broader audience.
From a RP perspective, I think it's really important to consider the expectations and familiarity of our player base. Many of our community members are used to the dynamic, visually appealing performances associated with Western cheerleading that include high energy routines, colourful uniforms, and a sense of personality and flair. While Ōendan carries powerful cultural symbolism, its highly regimented and serious tone may not immediately resonate with players who are more accustomed to expressive and character driven performances. While mostly culturally accurate, it might feel too rigid or unfamiliar for many of our players. We want to ensure our cheer team remains approachable, fun and inclusive for everyone participating.
But genuinely, I think we could achieve the best of both worlds rather than going 'all in' on one style. I think keeping the Westernised foundation allows for more creativity and player expression - while the traditional elements of Ōendan can give it that cultural balance. I know in past communities cheer teams sometimes ended up tied to the “mean girls” trope, where players felt too anxious to try out or even felt singled out OOCly. That’s definitely not the direction YRP will take. With the possibility of a more stricter school setting and modest, regulated uniforms, the team would focus on discipline (That is also not to say that rivalry is off the table, there is definitely a way about that within a respectful manner) and school spirit rather than social status or appearance. This approach keeps the fun, performative energy of Western cheer but reframes it into something that fits the tone of a Japanese school environment.
Even after speaking with another member of staff, the idea of even just having modest uniforms and Japanese music styles such as 'Gyaru' for routines or translated songs would be more beneficial for YRP!
