Pregame Playlist: Madison HoPregame Playlist: Madison Ho
Squash

Pregame Playlist: Madison Ho

Every athlete has a go-to playlist that they listen to before they take the field, step on the court, or dive into the pool. In Pregame Playlist we bring Stanford student-athletes' playlists to you!

Before every game, match, or meet every athlete has a go-to playlist that they listen to before to get themselves ready for action. In Pregame Playlist we hear what student-athletes' playlists mean to them! Hear from Madison Ho, a sophomore Squash team member, who shares her pregame playlist in advance of their matchup against Penn.

GoStanford.com: What’s your favorite song on this playlist and why?

Madison Ho: My favorite song on this playlist is Hall of Fame by The Script. It’s nostalgic because my siblings and I used to blast it on the way to tournaments, which always got us ready to compete. Beyond the personal connection, I love the song's empowering lyrics—they remind me to aim high and push my limits.

GS: Who are your favorite artists these days?

MH: My favorite artists are always changing, but lately, I've been listening to a lot of SZA and The Lumineers.

 

 

Madison Ho_SL_011325_026STANFORD, CA - JANUARY 13: Madison Ho during a game between Stanford Squash and University of Virginia at Arrillaga Center for Sports & Recreation on January 13, 2025 in Stanford, California.
Madison Ho_SL_011325_025STANFORD, CA - JANUARY 13: Madison Ho during a game between Stanford Squash and University of Virginia at Arrillaga Center for Sports & Recreation on January 13, 2025 in Stanford, California.

GS: What about this playlist gets you ready for competition?

MH: I love this playlist for pregame because it’s the perfect mix of upbeat tempo and motivational lyrics. Each song builds energy and confidence, helping me focus on giving my best.

GS: How would you describe your music taste in general?

MH: I’d describe my music taste as a mix of pop, R&B, and indie. I tend to gravitate toward slower, more relaxed tracks, especially since I typically listen to music in the background while working.

GS: Does this playlist different from what you listen to normally? If so, how come?

MH: Definitely! This playlist is much more high-energy than what I usually listen to. Normally, I lean toward more relaxed, vibey tracks, but for a pre-game playlist, I need something that amps me up and gets me in the zone to compete.

GS: Any unique stories behind what these songs meant to you or your team?

MH: Whatever It Takes and Radioactive are staples on my playlist for team practices. If I'm on AUX and it's a slower day, I always kick things off with those tracks to make sure the energy stays high and everyone gets pumped up.

GS: How does your music taste compare to the rest of your team’s?

MH: My music taste aligns pretty well with the rest of the team. We all love high-tempo, high-energy playlists because, in a fast-paced sport like squash, we need music that matches the rhythm and keeps us energized. It’s all about maintaining that intensity and focus, and our music helps set the pace.

GS: Describe your relationship with music, and how/if that relates to your sport.

MH: Music plays a huge role in my life, especially when it comes to sports. It helps me lock into the right mindset, boosting my energy and confidence while keeping me focused. Listening to my playlist before a match is like flipping a switch—it gets me motivated and ready to perform at my best.

Check out Madison's full playlist below.