Notre Dame women’s basketball is not just known for its prowess on the court but also for a unique and empowering tradition that sets the program apart: green nail polish. The tradition, which has become a symbol of pride, unity, and resilience for the team, is an ongoing testament to the deep sense of camaraderie and spirit that defines the Fighting Irish. As the team continues to dominate in women’s college basketball, the green nail polish tradition has grown beyond just a cosmetic detail to represent the commitment, history, and legacy of the Notre Dame women’s basketball program.
The practice of wearing green nail polish by members of the Notre Dame women’s basketball team has become synonymous with the program’s culture. It has spread to other players, coaches, and even fans. What started as a small, simple idea has turned into a multi-faceted, symbolic gesture that embodies the pride that the players take in their program and in their connection to each other.
Origins of the Green Nail Polish Tradition
The origins of the green nail polish tradition trace back to a time when the team was seeking to develop a deeper bond. For many athletes, wearing a uniform represents unity and a sense of belonging. Notre Dame women’s basketball, under the guidance of head coach Muffet McGraw, wanted to introduce a subtle but meaningful gesture to further strengthen the sense of team spirit. Green nail polish was chosen because it was a simple yet effective way to showcase solidarity without disrupting the team’s overall look.
The color green, of course, has a deep connection to Notre Dame. It is part of the school’s iconic color scheme and is closely tied to the Fighting Irish mascot and heritage. In this case, it was selected as a symbol of Notre Dame’s proud tradition and rich history. The green nail polish serves as a visible, yet understated representation of the Fighting Irish identity, acting as a small but consistent reminder of what it means to be part of such a storied program.
While the tradition initially started as a fun and lighthearted activity, it quickly evolved into something more meaningful. It became a ritual that transcended individual players and became part of the overall Notre Dame women’s basketball culture. For the players, it became a way to honor their teammates, the history of the program, and even the legacy of their predecessors. It also allowed the team to carry with them a shared symbol of resilience and empowerment, as well as a visible reminder that they were part of something much larger than themselves.
Symbolism and Unity
The green nail polish is more than just an aesthetic choice; it is a potent symbol of unity and pride for the team. It serves as a constant visual cue that reminds the players of their collective goals and their connection to the team. For a program like Notre Dame women’s basketball, which has experienced tremendous success over the years, maintaining that sense of cohesion is paramount.
In sports, unity is essential for success. Teams often struggle when individual players fail to put the collective good above their own personal interests. However, the tradition of green nail polish fosters a sense of togetherness, as it creates a shared experience that every player can partake in regardless of their role or position on the team. It allows every player to feel as though they are contributing to something larger, a community that supports and uplifts one another.
The nail polish tradition also serves as an outward reflection of the team’s spirit. It’s a visible marker that they are, as one, carrying on a long-standing tradition that transcends individual achievement. The green nail polish represents the Irish spirit, and every time a player puts it on, it is a reaffirmation of their place within that larger narrative.
Empowerment and Confidence
Over time, the green nail polish tradition has also become associated with empowerment. While it initially started as a team bonding exercise, it evolved into a way for the players to demonstrate confidence in themselves and in one another. The act of wearing the nail polish is, in many ways, a reflection of the players’ self-assurance and their belief in their collective abilities. It signals to others that they are not only part of something special but that they are empowered to excel and push the boundaries of their own potential.
For many athletes, looking good and feeling good are closely intertwined. The green nail polish helps the players feel confident both on and off the court. It’s a simple gesture that can have a profound impact on their mindset, boosting morale and reinforcing the sense that they are part of something significant. It also serves as a constant reminder of the team’s legacy, which adds weight to the players’ sense of responsibility to uphold the traditions and standards set by those who came before them.
One of the most powerful aspects of the green nail polish tradition is its ability to transcend the playing field. It’s not just about the basketball court—it’s about the broader sense of empowerment that the players feel in all aspects of their lives. The green nail polish symbolizes the confidence that Notre Dame women’s basketball instills in its players, and it serves as a reminder that they can achieve greatness not only as athletes but as individuals.
The Role of Coaches and Leadership
While the tradition of green nail polish began with the players, it’s important to note the role that coaches and leadership have played in perpetuating and supporting it. Head coach Muffet McGraw, who retired after the 2020-2021 season as one of the most successful and influential figures in women’s college basketball, was instrumental in fostering the sense of unity that made the green nail polish tradition possible.
McGraw, known for her fierce competitiveness and sharp basketball mind, built a program that wasn’t just focused on winning basketball games but on shaping young women who were strong, independent, and ready to face challenges both on and off the court. McGraw’s leadership style was one that emphasized the importance of relationships, team bonding, and creating an environment where each player felt valued and heard. The green nail polish became a natural extension of this philosophy, a way for the players to tangibly express their sense of belonging and commitment to the team.
Additionally, McGraw’s support for the tradition demonstrated her understanding of the power of symbolism and how it can be used to inspire greatness. In many ways, the green nail polish tradition is a reflection of her own leadership—focused on building confidence, instilling unity, and empowering each player to be the best version of themselves. It’s no surprise that this tradition thrived under McGraw’s watch.
Even after McGraw’s retirement, the tradition continued under her successor, head coach Niele Ivey. Ivey, a former Notre Dame player herself, understands the importance of tradition in maintaining the program’s identity. She has embraced the green nail polish tradition and made it a key part of her coaching philosophy. Ivey’s connection to the program—both as a former player and now as a coach—has ensured that the tradition lives on and remains integral to the team’s culture. Her leadership, just like McGraw’s, reinforces the sense of empowerment and unity that the tradition symbolizes.
Fans and the Green Nail Polish Phenomenon
The green nail polish tradition has not only caught on with the players and coaches but also with the fans. As the Notre Dame women’s basketball team has continued to achieve success on the national stage, the green nail polish tradition has spread beyond the locker room and onto the hands of supporters. Fans in the stands, at home games, and during away games have been known to sport green nails in solidarity with the team. This is a testament to the way the tradition has transcended the basketball court and become part of the broader identity of the Fighting Irish.
The fans’ adoption of the green nail polish tradition further reinforces the idea that it’s not just about individual success but about a collective effort. Fans wearing the nail polish are showing their support for the players and their dedication to the program. It strengthens the bond between the team and its supporters, creating a unified front that extends well beyond the players themselves.
Moreover, the green nail polish has become a symbol of the community that surrounds Notre Dame women’s basketball. It reflects the pride that fans take in the program, as well as their belief in the players and their ability to achieve greatness. It’s a powerful reminder that the tradition is bigger than just the athletes—it’s a shared experience that unites everyone involved in the program, from the coaches and players to the loyal supporters.
The Legacy of the Green Nail Polish Tradition
The green nail polish tradition is more than just a fun, quirky ritual—it is a vital part of the identity and legacy of Notre Dame women’s basketball. It is a tradition that signifies unity, empowerment, and pride, and it is something that has been embraced by players, coaches, and fans alike. The green nail polish serves as a reminder of the team’s commitment to excellence, both on and off the court.
As Notre Dame women’s basketball continues to be a force in women’s college basketball, the green nail polish tradition will undoubtedly remain a symbol of what makes the program special. It’s a tradition that links past, present, and future generations of players, creating a sense of continuity and connection that transcends time. The green nail polish isn’t just a color—it’s a statement, one that says, “We are Notre Dame,” and it’s something that will continue to inspire players and fans for years to come.