D.C. United faces off against Sporting Kansas City tonight at 8:30 ET (dcunited.com/live). The winner claims first place in the Eastern Conference and possibly the lead in the Supporters Shield race. For weeks, the Black-and-Red has expressed its understanding of the importance of this match.
So, we asked some of the players how they prepare for big games such as tonight's. Do they follow a ritual? Do they do things differently for games of this weight? Do they not have a routine, just go with the flow? Let's find out.
Sean Franklin: The game to me is really no different. We know it's a big game, but we won't all of a sudden change the way we play soccer. We still stick with the same mentality and the same things that have made us successful all season. Every player has their different way of how they prepare for games. And for me, all that matters is: do what you need to do to prepare yourself and come game time, we are all on the same page, ready to go and work for each other as a team.
- Related: DCU vs. SKC Match Preview
Tayor Kemp: I prepare for all games the same way. When a game is bigger, such as this one, everything is a little more heightened. I'm certainly always aware of the importance of each game, and while my routine doesn't change, it's always in the back of my mind what is at stake for that particular game.
For the most part I try not to over think things going into a big game. I don't let myself focus too much on the game too early. On the day of the game I like to stay busy, but still calm and relaxed. I like to walk my dog or watch some TV shows early in the day. I like to get outside a little bit to stretch my legs out and get some fresh air. Then the rest of the time I like to just relax and keep my mind and body at ease. About an hour before I head to the stadium, at home and on the road, I'll take a long shower where I start to dial in. I will visualize what I want to do that night both offensively and defensively. I will think about the different match ups I will see and how I will handle them. I always try to think positively for every situation I see.
Once I get to the stadium everything is about the game from then on. I do a bunch of little things to get my body right such as foam roll and stretching. I'll talk to some of the guys about the game or throw in some music to keep visualizing.
Like I said this is the same for every game, but when a game is bigger, I always find myself thinking about it ahead of time. I always have the game in the back of my mind and know that everything I do is preparation both physically and mentally for the upcoming game.
- Related: Game strategy for DCU at SKC
Jared Jeffrey:I treat every game the same way I stay super relaxed and eat a big meal the night before. I try to get a good a night's sleep and always take a nap in the afternoon on gameday. I actually don't listen to music. I try not to really think about the game until after the pregame meal. That's my cue to get focused on the game. We know what is at stake tonight, but we will approach this game the same way we have all season.
