In the dry heat of the sauna,
the sacristy of my sport,
like a priest before the mass
I anoint myself.

I dip two fingers into the IcyHot
and bless my right knee
then the left.
Another dip, and I apply
the sacred ointment to my left shoulder.

This regular ritual is followed
by a light blessing
of whatever other body parts
are crying for forgiveness.

Next the vestments.
After shirt and shorts:
two knee braces
an elbow brace
athletic tape
gloves
a headband and eye guards.

I pick up the handball
and process toward the sanctuary
of the court.

After the sacrifice of the game
has been offered
I sit in meditation and pray
for an acolyte
to assist me to the rectory
of the locker room
and the holy waters
of the shower.