The Game Before The Game

Berkeley, Calif. -- Sometimes what happens on the football field is in direct relation with what happens off of it. For the Berkeley High football team that meant eating plates of homemade spaghetti. Earning game-day jerseys by lining up to get academic progress reports checked out. Meditating in front of mirrors to make sure war paint is put on properly. Receiving warm hugs of encouragement. And having the courage and know-how to put shoulder pads on properly.