The boys football team has a tradition of tapping this sign before they play a game. Photo by: Cameron Maddox

By Cameron Maddox

For years and years, sports teams have had their own traditions. This is especially popular in high school sports. Teammates participate in traditions that help them become closer and become more motivated before a game. PHS athletes shared information about the traditions their teams do and how it affects them.

Freshman Elizabeth Wickens supports her team, even after season, by wearing her swimming and diving sweater to school. Photo by; Cameron Maddox

Freshman Erin Hunter plays volleyball and tennis. She said, “We always run after our matches whether we win or lose. Just to show that we are a team and we win or lose together. It’s not just one person’s fault.” Hunter also said her favorite tradition for both teams would have to be the team dinner because, “It is fun bonding time and the food is always delicious.” Junior Jordan Kelly, softball player, prays with the team before starting a game. “I think it makes it feel more like a family,” she said.

All athletes may participate in a variety of traditions, and there is a story behind each one. Sophomore Jack Barron plays 3 different sports. He said, “My favorite tradition was during freshmen football when the entire team would huddle up and I would give a pep talk right before the game started. We did it to get a little extra motivation before the game.” Junior Chaz Scruggs, football player and wrestler said, “One of the biggest traditions of Plymouth Rockie football was the playing of the original song “Rocky Top.” “It made us all really excited, and this song was associated with scoring touchdowns and beating someone.” He added.

Athletes not only have team traditions, but they may also have personal traditions. Doing these traditions is essential for them to feel ready for a competition. Elizabeth Wickens, swimmer and dancer, said, “Before every meet I have to listen to a pump up song and stretch. If I don’t I won’t feel like I’m ready for my event. It started when I started doing bigger meets as a child doing Age Group Swimming. Our state swim meet is when I started having to stretch and listen to music.”

These traditions continue to motivate PHS athletes and create memories that will last a lifetime.