Playing Favorites: The Sports Stars of Tomorrow Share Their Superstitions

Three red hair ties. Right sock on the left foot. The same three songs before every game. Top high school athletes reveal the rituals that help them compete at their best.

Some swear by the number seven. Others refuse to split poles or knock on wood. One player insists on being mic'd up for every playoff game after losing one where he wasn't. These superstitions show how mental preparation shapes performance.