Stylist, 22, Who Went Viral for Braiding NFL Players’ Hair Reveals What It’s Like to Have a ‘Role in Every Sunday’ (Exclusive)

**Seattle Hairstylist Takes the NFL by Storm with Talented Braids**

In the vibrant city of Seattle, a talented hairstylist named Karina Hibbitt has captured the attention of both sports fans and social media users alike. The 22-year-old has recently gone viral for sharing her experiences styling the hair of players for the Seattle Seahawks, offering a rare glimpse into the crucial preparations that happen before game day.

Hibbitt’s journey into the world of professional sports styling began serendipitously when a Seahawks player booked an appointment through her personal website. Initially unaware of the client’s identity, she later discovered that she was scheduled to style the hair of running back Zach Charbonnet. “The whole experience was unexpected but rewarding,” Hibbitt told PEOPLE. “I was just doing my job, and it turned out to be a significant career milestone.”

Over the past two seasons, she has continued to build on this initial success through a combination of word-of-mouth referrals and a strong presence on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. Hibbitt’s videos showcase her skill in braiding and styling hair, revealing the personal connections she develops with the players as she prepares them for their games.

As the NFL season progresses, Hibbitt finds that each appointment becomes increasingly comfortable and familiar, resembling sessions with long-time clients rather than those with high-profile athletes. She enjoys forming friendships with her clients and getting to know their lives beyond the game. “Every visit is an opportunity to connect,” she explained. “Knowing that I’m contributing to their confidence before the big game makes my role feel significant.”

Her visibility soared during the Super Bowl week when she documented her experiences through a TikTok video, which compiled clips from her time styling players in various settings, including hotels, homes, and her hair salon. The response to her clips was overwhelmingly positive, revealing to Hibbitt just how many viewers appreciated the behind-the-scenes perspective she provided of the NFL.

“Seeing people recognise my work on television was surreal,” she remarked. “It’s gratifying to know that I’m showing a side of the NFL that fans rarely see, and I’m proud to have contributed to that narrative.” The attention also ignited a conversation about the more personal aspects of the game, shifting the focus from just game statistics and scores.

Despite the offseason bringing a quieter schedule, Hibbitt’s work doesn’t cease entirely. She still accommodates players, particularly those who remain in Seattle for training. However, she notes that the dynamic during these sessions is a bit different. “While some players may have left for other cities to train, I still get to work with a few who are dedicated to staying,” she said.

Hibbitt also emphasises that the styling process can often be a relaxed and collaborative experience. Contrary to the common assumption that athletes arrive with a fixed vision of their desired hairstyle, she finds that many of her clients enjoy brainstorming new looks together. “It’s a blessing to have their trust in allowing me the creative freedom to explore different styles,” she explained.

Reflecting on her unique experiences, Hibbitt remarked on a particularly memorable moment during Super Bowl week, walking through the team hotel and interacting with renowned players she had only previously seen on TV. “It was a surreal experience,” she recalled. “Being part of such a historic event and having fans recognise me from my videos added an inspiring dimension to my work.”

As her online presence continues to grow, Hibbitt hopes her story serves as motivation for others to follow their passions. “I want people to understand that even a seemingly small skill can have a profound impact,” she shared. “Every passion can lead to unexpected opportunities, and I encourage others to embrace their unique journeys.”

As she envisions the future, Hibbitt feels enthusiastic about what lies ahead. She views this moment as merely the beginning of her career in styling and hopes to expand her clientele further while continuing to impact others through her work with hair and beyond. “I am excited for what’s next,” Hibbitt concluded. “I’m grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey and can’t wait to see where it takes me.”