For many Kinkaid athletes, game days are more than just competitions; they’re full-day routines shaped by preparation, nerves, rituals and team traditions.
From morning meals to bus ride energy, each sport has its own tradition, but students agree that game days always feel different from regular school days.
For junior Nate Chambers, fueling properly is one of the biggest priorities.
“I do change my routine in how I eat before games to have energy,” Chambers stated.
Like many athletes, Chambers said he spends his day staying relaxed and focused, often listening to country music or getting extra reps in.
Even the bus rides have their own vibe.
“The bus rides are pretty quiet, other than Reid and Malachi messing with people,” he added.
The two underclassmen, Reid Wright, a sophomore, and freshman Malachi Smith, often joke around and keep the energy high.
As a football and basketball athlete, Chambers also adjusts his preparation depending on the game. Football, he said, requires more physical preparation. After games, he relaxes quickly.
For Chambers the first step is always the same: “I go home and shower.”
But not all athletes approach game day with the same level of intensity.
Sophomore baseball player Liam Gutierrez takes a slightly calmer approach. He prepares early, even adjusting the night before.
“I eat lighter during the day and try to go to sleep earlier the day before,” he said.
On game days, Gutierrez tries to stay relaxed, listening to music on quieter bus rides.
“I try not to get too hype before games, adrenaline will naturally kick in,” he said.
After games, Gutierrez reviews videos of his swing to evaluate what worked and what needs improvement.
While Gutierrez keeps things low key, other teams thrive on high energy.
Sophomore field hockey player Abby Swanson experiences a very different game-day energy with her team.
“Our team bus rides are loud because there is always music playing,” Swanson said. “We have certain music traditions, especially before St. John’s games, and Coach Ciconte always gives us motivational speeches.”
After games, she and her teammates sprint to their goalie before debriefing with her sister, junior Annie Swanson.
Across sports, one thing is clear—game days at Kinkaid are filled with routine, excitement, and moments that bring teammates closer, long before any game or match begins.
