Deerfield Football Tradition: Milk and Cookies

YONG DING /DEERFIELD SCROLL

“Milk and Cookies,” a Deerfield Boys Varsity Football Team tradition, is a pre-game meeting and preparation that takes place the evening before each game day. This tradition exists exclusively among the football players and, according to many players, is one of the most cherished experiences among the team. It has defined and continues to define the brotherhood of the football program. Head Football Coach and Eleventh Grade Class Dean Brian Barbato emphasized that unique bonds form through football and the rituals which surround it. “Football is a special game, and what we do to prepare is unique,” he said. “Some of my fondest football memories are hitting a gap to protect my buddies, celebrating after a win or a sack—there’s no feeling like it in sports, even close.” Coach Barbato further believes that this sense of connection and brotherhood is reflected in the team’s “Milk and Cookies” tradition. The process begins with a speech from Mr. Barbato, followed by the sharing of milk and cookies among the team. Once everyone is seated again, the team enjoys a round of speeches from underclassmen and upperclassmen alike. These speeches serve as opportunities for players to build team atmosphere and strengthen bonds. Captain Will Machnik ’26 described the tradition as “something very important for the football team,” adding that “it builds a good community within the guys, and it's a chance for them to either get the team pumped up or share something that's personal to them and brings the team together.” Players also reflect on the uniqueness of the experience. “It’s my first year, and I think it’s good,” said Gavin Jeffries ’26. He continued, “I didn’t really have a tradition like this back in my old school, so I really feel like it's something that I really like. I appreciate the fact that we're able to come together as a group. Teams can talk, Coach can talk, all that.” The captains believe that “Milk and Cookies” helps new players and underclassmen on the team bond with more senior players on the field. Machnik recounted his time as a freshman on the team, where “watching older guys open up really makes you feel like you are a part of the team at a young age.” In this sense, the tradition not only serves as a team bonding exercise, but also allows new and younger teammates to understand that their senior players share similar experiences and the same love for the game. Meanwhile, the upperclassmen and returning players perceive these meetings as an opportunity for them to speak about their experiences. The meetings promote players to share advice and continue to nurture the football program’s culture. Bishop Benham ’26 reflected, "I've only been here for two years, but last year was a great thing, and even when I was hurt, I showed up to it. So yeah, I think it's good for the younger guys, good for the older guys. [It] builds seniority, but it also creates a kind of comfortability among the team, where people can talk." Overall, Jefferies noted that the tradition helps players play with the utmost effort not only for themselves but also for their teammates. He stated, “I think it gets us all mentally on the same page and gets us all prepared to be our best selves and be as prepared as possible for the game tomorrow.” Coaches and football players alike credit “Milk and Cookies” to helping build an individual’s testament, promote discipline, and foster love among the team. They expressed that through bonding experiences like “Milk and Cookies,” teammates have become brothers who share the field.