Even a rookie quarterback like 20-year-old J.J. McCarthy, who flashed special ability throughout the spring and summer. He’s known for his unusual hub day rituals that get him ready mentally and physically to compete at the highest levels. With an impressive track record that includes winning a state championship in Illinois and a national title in college, McCarthy’s approach draws attention for its depth and intentionality.
At the heart of McCarthy’s preparation lies his belief in the power of mindset, captured in a proverb he quotes by 17th-century Japanese writer Miyamoto Musashi: “It is better to be a warrior in a garden than a gardener in a war.” This folk saying definitely sums up his approach to life and the unexpected. He does his best to live out that simultaneous quality of preparedness and peace as much on land as in the water.
McCarthy’s game-day rituals extend beyond mental frameworks. He incorporates physical elements, such as painting his face with eye black, creating an alter ego that symbolizes his warrior mentality. Psychological, this ritual becomes his safety valve—he can tap into all that aggression, all that fire, all that ferocity in competition.
In advance of each matchup, in tow with McCarthy’s game day essentials are Shiftwave chair. He found this meditation tool during his last year at Michigan. Since then, he’s invested in the company behind the chair and his personal commitment to mental wellness continues. Personally, McCarthy is focused on trying to find an internal flow state. This gives him the grace to go from a high state activation, easy to switch into relaxation and recovery mode.
“The goal is very much putting a person into this kind of internal flow state,” – Dr. Greg North
Dr. North, who has worked with McCarthy, elaborated on the significance of this approach:
“For someone like J.J., the ball snaps and you have to go. You want to be going a hundred miles an hour. But then the play’s over. You want to come down as fast as possible, think clearly, recharge, recover, and then prepare for the next play.” – Dr. Greg North
McCarthy’s dedication to mental preparation aligns him with high-energy personalities like P.J. Fleck, the University of Minnesota‘s football coach. After getting to know Fleck years ago, McCarthy was immediately impressed by Fleck’s infectious energy and passion.
“I had a chance to meet P.J. years ago,” – Greg Holcomb
Greg Holcomb, who has observed both McCarthy and Fleck, noted similar qualities between them:
“At first I was like, ‘There’s no way this dude is like this 24-7. It has to be an act.’ But all these years later, P.J. is still the same guy. J.J. has those same qualities. He’s almost, like, too happy sometimes. It can almost look obnoxious.” – Greg Holcomb
McCarthy’s exuberance is only eclipsed by his competitive drive, a trait that’s earned widespread respect from former teammates to coaches. His in-game moxie is the kind of thing that gets talked about in reverential tones by the people who know him best.
“He told me his regimen and I wouldn’t have advised anything different for him,” – Dr. North
While McCarthy enjoys listening to reggae icon Bob Marley before games, a choice that reflects his desire for positivity and relaxation, he understands the importance of discipline as well.
“J.J. has so many things in his toolbox that have nothing to do with his skill. He’s got both, so you’re looking at somebody who has the potential to be very elite.” – Greg Holcomb
Ultimately, McCarthy’s blended mental fortitude and physical readiness exemplifies why McCarthy is focused on being the best football player.
“There are so many things that take no skill whatsoever that can make you a really high-level football player,” – Greg Holcomb
Ultimately, McCarthy’s combination of mental fortitude and physical readiness underscores his commitment to excellence in football.
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