Thursday, August 30, 2007

Game Day Rundown

Another week into the season and our first home preseason game is under the belt! Although we suffered a loss, it was fun to get the rookies on the field for their first time and get all of the veterans back out on the field to make some more memories.

After the game on Thursday I started reflecting on what actually goes into a game day. The majority of the work to prepare for our games comes into play during rehearsals, training, and technique — so game day is really where everything comes to fruition.

We get to the stadium at least 4 hours before kickoff. What do we do that entire time? Good question. Well, the time goes pretty quickly. In fact, for a 7 o’clock game we will get to the stadium around 1:45 to review and check through security and practice dances before heading out to the field. We have a full out game day rehearsal which includes running pregame, La Grange, both quarter breaks, all sidelines, vamps (choreographed dances to music that plays randomly throughout any given game day), and any halftime show we may perform. After our rehearsal we head to the locker room, and break for dinner with the option to attend chapel afterwards. Our chapel is hosted by the organization’s chaplain, Bill Rader — an incredible leader of faith, and an encouraging voice who never fails to integrate focus and purpose into the entire organization’s frame of mind. Therefore, when our team — players, coaches, cheerleaders and staff hit the field, we are playing, dancing and leading with intention. Then we move forward with getting ready, and beginning our game day promotions, including Broncos Barn (my favorite!). After promotions we have a team circle where we pray and have a team captain or leader speak.

Then it’s game time! Walking out on that field with 70,000 fans is never repetitive and is always an adrenaline rush. The passion, sweat, tears, faith and training that go into the game create the legacy. So as we continue preseason against the Arizona Cardinals tomorrow night, we look forward to good football, intentional playing and a win of course! Go Broncos!

God Bless,
Keela (8/29/07)