"You gotta get out!!!"...dumbest thing ever. I actually had a D1 college coach (actually a reputable distance running school) tell my sons, who ran for him, that "running even/negative splits is p*ssy high school running". Apparently, the way the human physiology works changes between high school and college.
Actually, I find that high school kids respond to any cheering that's positive, no matter what is said or makes sense/not. Most kids pick it up when yelling/cheering people are around. Go back in the woods where all there are is crickets/frogs, and you see how different they respond.
As a high school coach, I appreciate any parents coming out and having the enthusiasm to support the kids. What truly baffles me is that probably 60% of kids have parents I've never even met or seen all season. I just don't get that.