Laura Stone ditches superstitions and thrives for Hawthorn
Hawks AFLW player Laura Stone abandoned her pink headband ritual and old routines but has excelled in her breakout 2026 season.
The 20-year-old used to wear a fluorescent pink headband and eat pasta the night before games. Now she keeps the headbands in her bag as a memory and trusts her preparation instead.
Stone said focusing on small superstitions took her mind off the actual game. Laura Stone's form has not wavered.
She had 21 disposals, six clearances, eight score involvements and two goals in Hawthorn's finals win over Gold Coast. Stone said building confidence and trusting her instincts have given her freedom on field.
- 20 years old
- Age
- Gold Coast
- Opponent
- 2026 breakout year
- Season
Why it mattersPreparation and mental focus beat ritual, especially when a team is chasing a finals run.
AustraliaHawthorn AFLW plays Carlton in a semi-final this week, and Stone is a key player in their push.
