The Psychology of Pregame Preparation

Pregame preparation isn’t just physical—it’s mental. A clear, practiced routine helps athletes shift into the right mindset, fostering calm and focus in an otherwise chaotic environment. When athletes know what’s expected and can lead warm-ups themselves, they develop trust, autonomy, and ownership. The warm-up reflects your team’s culture—organized routines lead to disciplined performance, while chaotic warm-ups result in sloppy play. On game day, be the calm in the storm, trust your routine, and stay flexible. The game is often won or lost before the whistle blows, and it all starts with how you warm up.