It’s hard to describe. You just feel so confident. You get your feet set and get a good look at the basket—it’s going in. Even the ones I missed I thought were going in.” I never thought I would have a game like this, though. I made the first one, I said, ‘Let me see if I can make two.’ I made the second one, I said, ‘Let me see if I can make three.’ I made the third one, I said, ‘I’ve got a rhythm going.’ – Kobe Bryant
Being in “the zone” or a flow state is one of the greatest feelings an athlete can experience. “The zone” is an elusive place that many athletes will never even get close to. To have the ability to “flip the switch” when game time is here is a very special gift that is most notably seen through ultimate competitors such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady, Tiger Woods, etc. Full control of the situation, never wavering, not thinking, and being where your feet are.
If the zone is such a euphoric state of being, why can’t everyone get there? Well, as someone that has experienced playing in the zone, it is all about your preparation… Over my playing career, I have found what works for me to flip the switch before competing. I have been playing lacrosse for my entire life and now in my 5th year of playing lacrosse at the collegiate level, my routines/superstitions are cemented as I do the same things, the same way, prior to every single game. I feel as though the mental/emotional side of the game far exceeds the physical side, especially playing goalie.
I am always the first person in the locker room, whether it is a home game or an away game. I have to control my environment and be aware of my surroundings. As soon as I get to the locker room, I find a quiet place to reflect. This season I have started reading before games which I feel has had a direct correlation to my play. I have been reading the book Relentless by Tim Grover, an iconic trainer that has worked with legends such as Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Dwayne Wade and many more generational players. In my opinion, this book is a must read for any athlete looking to take their game to the next level.
After reading, I will start to stretch out and warm up for the game. I have been doing the same exercises and stretches since I was a junior in High School. If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it, right? I then begin to work on my hand-eye coordination.
After, I tape my stick the same way prior to every game. The same way. Every time. I always write little messages on my stick to help me throughout the highs and lows of game day. I always write my favorite bible verse Psalm 23:4, my number 29 with a cross next to it, and a few other personal messages. Once I am all done locking in on my mental focuses for the game, it’s time to start gearing up. When I am done getting my gear on, I listen to a few songs in the same order. When I take the field, I do my stretching routine, go say a prayer and then it’s time to get in the zone.