Right before taking the field on game day, senior Kirby Houck makes sure she is wearing what's important: two arm bands, one black and one pink. Next she puts on eye black and her special socks. Any other rituals we should know about? "Right before the game, either me or [goalie] Jess Buicko have to make a goal," she said. "...shooting from the sideline bench."
Thise quirky Athletes of the Week's superstitious habits seem to be working out well for her. Last weekend, she single-handedly scored a career-high five goals against Georgetown. Unfortunately, this wasn't quite enough to bring a team win, but it doesn't matter. As one of the captains, Kirby is well-versed in how to keep the team's passion alive for the game she's always loved.
The enthusiastic side of Kirby is quite refreshing. As someone who is certainly used to receiving cheers, it's great to see her give it right back to those she admires. If she were to go on a cross-country road trip, she knows exactly who she would bring with her and why.
"Channing Tatum, to stare at the whole trip, the guy who invented pickles, so I could have an endless supply ... and Dave Matthews, so he could sing to me!" she said, smiling. They are excellent choices: a hot man, a talented singer/song-writer and a guy who makes sure you never go hungry. A girl certainly can't go wrong with any of those.
When Kirby isn't jamming lacrosse balls down the throats of her opponents, you will probably find her working out, playing tennis, cooking, baking or hanging out with friends. She is also an avid fan of the TV show Lost and her favorite movie is The Story of Us. Recently, she discovered a love for photography. "I'm taking Intro to Digital Photo right now and I love it," she said.
"If I could have any dream job, I'd definitely want to be a photographer for National Geographic, a pastry chef in a popular bakery or a personal trainer for movie stars!"
Does this girl ever stop moving? Is there anything she can't do? Between discovering her hidden talents, training, baking for friends and dreaming about whipping celebrities into shape, one might say that she is quite the busy bee. What would it take for her to slow down? It would pretty much entail being stuck on a deserted island.
"If that ever happened, though, I would really only need three things there ... my pillow, some chocolate and a good book," she said.
It's the appreciation for the simple things in life that make Kirby not only a superstar athlete, but a great person and leader. She helps keep her team focused and hungry - not too hungry, though, because after all, she is quite the chef and baker.
To check out Kirby in action, grab your Blue Jays gear and head out to Homewood Field on Monday, March 17 at 4 p.m. to watch her and the rest of the Lady Jays play the University of Maryland, College Park in a St. Patty's Day rumble. Don't miss it!
