A High-Energy Ice Breaker to Kickstart Team Spirit
In this team-building ice breaker activity, participants are split into smaller teams, each representing a unique identity characterized by their team name and color—marked clearly by the assigned color bandanas worn.
The task is simple in concept but powerful in execution: each team must invent and rehearse their very own war cry. This chant should be rhythmic, loud, creative, and above all, a representation of their team spirit and unity.
The war cry must incorporate three required elements:
- The team name,
- the team color, and
- a bold slogan or chant that reflects their energy.
Participants are given a brief time slot to brainstorm and practice. The process often sparks laughter, creativity, and collaboration as teams work to synchronize voices, add hand movements or stomps, and refine their delivery to captivate the audience. While it may start off shy or awkward, by the time the teams perform, their confidence usually soars.
Each performance is presented in front of the rest of the group, with loud cheers and support echoing across the venue. It’s not just about volume—it’s about presence, emotion, and team synergy. Facilitators or audience members may vote or give playful awards like "Most Fierce," "Most Creative," or "Most In-Sync." The moment helps break the ice, dissolve formality, and inject instant fun into the day.
The war cry to celebrate victory
Beyond being an energizing opener, the war cry has a recurring role throughout the event. Whenever a team wins a game or completes a challenge, they are invited (and encouraged!) to shout their war cry again—marking their success with their battle chant. It becomes a celebratory symbol and an audio signature that follows the team through the event.
This repetition fosters a unique group identity and camaraderie. Teammates begin to feel more bonded, not just by activities, but by something they created together—a unifying expression that sets them apart. It often becomes an inside joke or memorable chant that’s repeated long after the event is over.
War cry to enhance team morale throughout the even
Facilitators may occasionally call on teams to perform their war cries in unexpected moments throughout the day, maintaining high energy levels and reinforcing a sense of team pride. It also encourages teams to stay sharp and in sync—knowing they might be called upon at any time.
Overall, the War Cry activity transforms a simple chant into a moment of team triumph, fostering not just laughter, but lasting group cohesion. It’s loud, it’s fun, and it sets the tone for a day of spirited collaboration and connection
Is this a competitive team building activity?
It can be, depending on the format of play. However, most often, the war cry serves as a ice-breaker activity and an morale booster throughout the event.
Is this an indoor or outdoor activity.
Both. The War cry really can be played indoors or outdoors depending on the even venue chosen.
What's the duration of this team activity?
The activity typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of teams and whether it's used as a standalone or recurring chant throughout the event.
What is the objective of this activity?
To break the ice, energize participants, build team identity, and encourage creativity and group coordination.
How does this activity encourage teamwork?
Teams must collaborate closely, be creative, to create, rehearse, and perform their war cry, requiring communication, creativity, and alignment.
How will this activity fit my corporate event?
It works perfectly as an energizing opener, mid-event booster, or celebration segment after a game win, blending well into any program flow.
Is this a standalone or part of a larger event ?
It can only be part of a larger event.
What’s the best group size for this activity?
The ideal group size is 20 to 100 participants, divided into teams of 5 to 10 people.
The activity can also be scaled for larger groups with multiple rounds or breakout performances, making it suitable for both small off-sites and large corporate events.