To no one’s surprise, the men’s gymnastics team took home first prize at the THON 2024 Pep Rally, but plenty of other teams deserve recognition, too. From kicklines to animal onesies to technology difficulties, there was no shortage of spectacles to admire during Saturday night’s Pep Rally.

In typical Onward State fashion, we sorted through the performances to hand out a few superlatives.

The Not Eligible But Should’ve Won Award: Blue Sapphire

Members of the Blue Band came to the stage to help open up the Pep Rally, including Blue Sapphire Mackenzie Bronk. She was there to accompany the Blue Band in getting the crowd hyped up, but damn, does she put on a good performance. You’re a winner in our hearts, Mackenzie.

Best (& Maybe Only) Theme: Women’s Tennis

The women’s tennis took the stage in a variety of animal onesies, completed with music from “The Lion King.” The other teams’ outfits were pretty plain, but even if there were other themes, this would still be the best. Love ya, lions!

The “I’m Just Ken” Award: Men’s Swimming & Diving

Ah, masculinity in its finest form. Denim, cowboy hats, and an open flannel shirt over a white tank top. You could’ve told me these guys were straight out of “Barbie,” and I would have agreed.

The Using Props Award: Men’s Gymnastics

Does it really count as a prop if it’s your own teammate?

The men’s gymnastics team turned one of its members into a human jump rope and literally had another guy jump over him. We are concerned yet deeply impressed by that degree of flexibility.

Most Confusing Theme: Women’s Ice Hockey

Maybe it wasn’t really meant to be a theme at all, but the women’s hockey team donned black and white striped shirts that had us a little lost. After playing the New York Times’ Connections last week, the women could’ve been anything from mimes to referees or sailors. Regardless, the outfit coordination was much appreciated. Very snazzy.

The Participation Award: Football

There was not an ounce of choreography here. It was certainly a valiant effort, and we loved that a few players got to show off their moves individually, but it was clear there wasn’t too much preparation going on. We’ll give them an award anyway because we love them.

The Putting Your Sport To Good Use Award: Women’s Volleyball

The women’s volleyball team was throwing some of its team around and sending them to some impressive heights. All of that blocking practice really paid off, huh?

The “Started From The Bottom Now We Here” Award: Women’s Soccer

The first time the team took the stage, it was met with technology issues that forced the team to head to the back of the line. After coming out later and absolutely killing its performance, the ladies were one of two finalists in the Pep Rally. Even though it didn’t win, it was certainly pretty redeeming.