NBA legend Kobe Byrant would listen to the Michael Myers theme song on repeat to feel like he was ready to kill, and MLB Hall of Famer Moises Alou would urinate on his hands because he believed it prevented blisters.
Just like the professionals, athletes at Roosevelt have their own unique pre-game rituals to prepare for competition. Quarterback Dalton Anderson ’25 emphasizes the importance of prayer, both solo and with the team. “With me being passionate with my faith, it is special to tap in with God.” Football teammate Zaire Griffin ’25 wakes up at 6:30 to take a cold bath. During lunch, Griffin picks up three croissant sandwiches and a mango Arizona Iced Tea. When asked how he would play without it he says, “I don’t even want to know what happens if I skip it.”
Girls Varsity Soccer Goalkeeper Phie Volckmann ’25 visualizes what it will feel like to be handling the ball to mentally prepare, and before the ref blows the whistle, she taps the top of the crossbar to ground herself.
Finally, small forward for the men’s basketball team, Anthony Washington Jr. ’25 said, “I listen to Brazilian phonk music in the shower and act like I’m in an edit.” Whatever their ritual may be, our athletes believe that it is essential to their success.
