The game of football started in 1920, but the first game took place in 1869. Football was created to form communities while enjoying “looser” rules in a game. Now, whether in high schools or in the professional leagues, students and pro-athletes are still enjoying this masterpiece of a game and playing it with the best of their abilities.
To prepare for the pressure of football, players have many routines for success. Senior Jaylon Robinson has a method he follows before each game.
“I go to a quiet room, where it’s dark, watch a movie or listen to music, take a nap or whatever,” Jaylon Robinson said.
He decompresses before stepping onto the field for intense games. With this tradition of calm before the game, Jaylon Robinson is able to play to his best abilities.
Senior Alex Thornton has a different way of developing the right mindset for the next game.
“Before games, I just listen to music,” said Thornton. “Try to lock in the best I can and play my best.”
Music helps shape the right mentality in order for players to succeed in these high-pressure games. With much on the line and the crowd watching, the players require a positive state of mind for these demanding games.
Not only are memories of football made on game day, but they are formed on the many days spent in the past playing with family and friends.
Football has been a part of freshman Bryson Kennedy’s life forever.
“Growing up watching my brother play, watching my dad, filled me with pride and him watching me develop is a great feeling,” Kennedy said.
Not only does football create long-lasting memories, it also shapes a player’s life.
“I don’t really know much,” said Thornton, “but I’d be nothing without football.”
Thornton feels the impact of football forming his life into what it is today. Football is not only a sport someone plays, it is a standard players live by. Football molded Thornton’s life and has also caused unbreakable friendships to be formed for sophomore Tony Hayar.
“In my opinion, I think football is not just a sport, but it’s like a culture,” Hayar said. “I mean all those players on a football team, they’re like my brothers to me, and we respect each other equally, even though we have our ups and downs.”
This team has brought Hayar many everlasting bonds with other players he will carry throughout his life. Between wins and loses, these players support one another and look out for each other.
Throughout the season, the team had victories and losses. The student athletes are filled with talent and Jaylon Robinson believes that as well.
“We have talent, but we are not actually using our talent for the whole game, and we lack confidence,” Jaylon Robinson said.
The athletes are working very hard in every competition they attend and head coach Anthony Robinson knows more work is needed.
“What we have to do is just continue to get better for ourselves and continue to work on ourselves. And I think if we do that, we’ll be able to finish the season strong, with a few more victories,” Robinson said.
