The Power of Music in Sports: How The Veronicas and Katy Perry Inspire Carlton and Hawthorn
The power of music in sports is undeniable, and it seems to be a key element in the success of the Carlton and Hawthorn football clubs. Before every game, the Carlton players unite in a joyous celebration, singing 'Untouched' by The Veronicas. This simple act of unity and fun has become a powerful ritual, helping them play their best football.
Erone Fitzpatrick, a player on the team, shared the impact of this tradition with ABC Sport after their impressive 41-point win against West Coast in the elimination final.
"Before the game, we were a bit silly," Fitzpatrick said. "We gather around Ciara Fitzgerald, who initiates the dance to 'Untouched'. It's all about joy and celebration, and I think that's what's driving our performance this year. You can see it on the field, with players supporting each other and having fun."
This year, Carlton is making its first finals appearance since 2020, and they are the favorites to win the semifinal against Hawthorn on Saturday. The team's success can be attributed to the energy and enthusiasm brought by younger players like Sophie McKay, Poppy Scholz, and Lila Keck.
On the other side of the field, Hawthorn players have been using Katy Perry's 'Dark Horse' as their anthem. Midfielder Eliza West explains why this song resonates with them, despite their top-four finish.
"Our season has been a grind, and we've had to prove ourselves in tough games. We still feel like underdogs, and we have a point to prove," West said. "Despite our second place on the ladder, we finished fourth after a 49-point loss to the minor premiers. This meant we faced the Kangaroos in the first week of finals, losing by 39 points."
The Hawks' season has been marred by injuries to key players, including Lucy Wales, Emily Bates, Aileen Gilroy, Jasmine Fleming, Ainslie Kemp, Najwa Allen, Bridie Hipwell, and Jenna Richardson. However, the team is determined to turn things around, with captain Bates returning and second-year players Hayley McLaughlin and Sophie Butterworth stepping in to replace the injured Emily Everist and Kaitlyn Ashmore.
Despite the setbacks, the Hawthorn players remain confident, and Katy Perry's song is helping to boost their energy before the game. West revealed that the team has a few songs they play at different points, with Aine McDonagh and Casey Sherriff as the main coordinators.
"The girls love to sing and dance before the game, it gives them energy," West said. "Some of the girls, like Aine, go out and kick three goals after the song!"
Interestingly, some of the older players, including West and Tilly Lucas-Rodd, prefer to warm up by throwing the ball around instead of dancing. But the song unites them all, setting the tone for their 'dark horse' status in the finals series.
The stage is set for an exciting semifinal clash between Hawthorn and Carlton at Princes Park on Saturday night. Will the music and unity of these teams be the key to their success in the finals?
