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Pre-Game Rituals: What Players Wear Before They Play

Pre-Game Rituals: What Players Wear Before They Play

Before warmups start and before the energy rises, every lacrosse player has a pre-game ritual — the walk-in, the mindset, the final moment of calm before competition. What players wear during this time plays a huge part in setting the tone for how they feel when they step onto the field.

At GOOSE IT®, we love seeing top athletes choose our apparel as part of those rituals. Here’s how three pros incorporate Goose It pieces into their game-day routine.

Why Pre-Game Apparel Matters

Pre-game clothing isn’t random — it’s part of the ritual. The right hat or tee helps players feel grounded, confident, and ready for the moment. It’s about comfort, identity, and building consistency, which is huge in lacrosse where culture plays such a strong role.

Josh Balcarcel — Midfielder, California Redwoods | Staple Two-Tone Cap

Midfielder Josh Balcarcel of the California Redwoods is often seen walking into game day wearing the Staple Two-Tone Cap in cream and brown. It’s clean, reliable, and sets the perfect pre-game tone before the intensity of midfield play kicks in.
https://gooseitcompany.com/products/staple-two-tone-cap-cream-brown

Cam Wyers — Defender, Utah Archers & Buffalo Bandits | Staple Cap

Defender Cam Wyers, who plays for both the Utah Archers and the Buffalo Bandits, also rocks the Staple Cap as part of his walk-in routine. For a defender, staying mentally sharp and locked in is everything. A comfortable, familiar piece helps reinforce that focus even before he hits the field.

TD Ierlan — Faceoff Specialist, California Redwoods & Toronto Rock | Roots Tee

Faceoff Specialist TD Ierlan, competing with the California Redwoods and the Toronto Rock, throws on the Roots Tee before getting into his game-day prep. The soft, lightweight feel helps him settle in, loosen up, and go through his mental and physical FOGO routine before stepping into the battle at the stripe.
https://gooseitcompany.com/products/roots-black

How Off-Field Gear Strengthens Pre-Game Rituals

Players choose their pre-game apparel for a reason:

  • Comfort = fewer distractions before pads and gear go on

  • Routine builds confidence, and wearing the same pieces becomes part of that ritual

  • Identity matters, especially in a sport where culture is everything

  • The walk-in look sets the tone for how a player feels heading into competition

For many athletes, the game starts the moment they step off the bus.

Dial In Your Own Pre-Game Routine

Whether you’re a midfielder like Josh, a defender like Cam, or a faceoff specialist like TD — what you wear before the game matters. The right pieces help set your mindset, boost your confidence, and keep you connected to your identity as an athlete.

Explore the gear these pros rely on and find your own pre-game essentials at GOOSE IT®.

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