Have you ever wondered what top athletes eat before a game to make them so successful? Like what does Messi eat before scoring a game winning goal? At Masuk, it’s a tradition for many teams to have pasta parties the night before big games. With carbohydrates like pasta and bread fueling their bodies, athletes are able to build up long-term energy that helps them power through intense matches or games. But for some, their pregame meals are a bit more personal, strategic, or even superstitious. These meals not only prepare them physically, but mentally as well, getting them into the right mindset to perform at their highest level. From protein-packed subs to pink donuts, each athlete has found what works best for them.
Star Masuk hockey senior and team captain Luke Kondub follows a simple but reliable routine before his games. “I usually stop by the Subway down on Route 111 and get a nice little ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayo sub,” Kondub shared. “You know, it’s not heavy, super light on my stomach, and tastes really good. I always feel energized before the game when I eat it, so that’s great.” This sub is more than just a tasty sandwich for Kondub, it’s a consistent part of his game day ritual that helps him feel fueled and focused. He added, “It’s a staple in my game day routine, and it always hits the spot.” With Kondub closing in on a major milestone, only 30 points away from breaking the Masuk all-time point record, it’s clear that his routine is paying off. His story highlights the importance of consistency and personal comfort in an athlete’s preparation for a big game.
Kondub, assistant captain of Masuk hockey. Photo taken by Jeff Simon.
Football captain and senior Jake Viglione has a more complex and somewhat unexpected approach to his pregame nutrition. “A little avocado toast action does the job. throw on a little cottage cheese and turkey. But if the supplies aren’t in the house, I’ll take my trip to Panera and get a chicken avocado melt.” Viglione’s meal is a balanced blend of healthy fats, protein, and complex carbs, which he believes gives him the energy and endurance needed for long football games. “Putting good food in my body makes me feel good.” Athletes like Viglione and Kondub thrive on routines that allow them to play with sustained energy and focus throughout the game.
Jake Viglione lines up for the Panthers. Photo taken by Diana Champagne.
Junior quarterback Aaron Champagne, however, has a different philosophy when it comes to pregame meals. “I get a Chipotle burrito, double wrapped, with brown rice, double chicken, cheese, lettuce, and corn.” At first glance, this might sound like a serious power meal, but Champagne laughed and admitted, “It doesn’t help with performance really, I just love Chipotle.” This response shows that not every athlete eats for performance, sometimes, it’s all about comfort and what they are familiar with. Champagne’s go-to meal is something he enjoys, something that makes him feel good and relaxed going into a game. In a high-pressure environment like competitive sports, that sense of personal enjoyment can be just as important as nutrition. It goes to show that there’s no one dimensional approach to game-day preparation, each athlete finds their own rhythm.
Aaron Champagne, number 4. Photo taken by Diana Champagne.
Lastly, Masuk girls lacrosse standout and senior Charlotte Pinto has a surprisingly sweet tradition. “I always need to get a pink donut with sprinkles. It’s my go-to pregame meal,” Pinto said. While a donut might not be the most usual choice for sports performance, for Charlotte, it’s a ritual that helps get her into the right headspace. She balances the sugary treat with Pedialyte Sport, a hydration drink designed to replenish electrolytes and keep athletes performing at a high level. When asked about her favorite flavor, Pinto said, “Grape. It keeps me hydrated all game long, and personally, I like the taste.” For Pinto, this pairing is both fun and helpful, helping her stay hydrated while sticking to a lighthearted, enjoyable routine. Like the other athletes, her game day choices reflect both her physical and mental preparation.
In the end, every athlete has their own unique pregame meal that helps them get ready to perform. Whether it’s something healthy, something filling, or just something they enjoy, these routines play an important role in their game-day mindset. From sandwiches to donuts, what matters most is that the meal helps them feel confident, energized, and ready to give their best.
Masuk Free Press 
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