[rabbito]

Originally Posted by Ishkur

Stat magic, eh? In hockey, we call this "jinxing" or "self-fulfilling prophecy".

For instance: it is impolite at ANY TIME during a hockey game where a goalie is on the verge of a shut out, to say the words "shut out". For doing so jinxes the goalie, and the next shot will go in. Every time. Broadcasters (that is, Canadian broadcasters) take extra special care to try not to even think about it in the dying moments of a game, let alone say it. I've noticed ABC and ESPN announcers not having as much tact, brandishing the word around all the time. It makes me want to hurl things at the TV.

Players also have routines, superstitions, and a myriad of other things they MUST do before a game to give them that headspace/comfort zone that will let them excel. Certain pads must be put on in order, right leg first, tape wrapped twice and only twice, etc..... it's crazy. If you ever get to a hockey game early, watch the goalies. Every one in the league has his own pre-game ritual: tapping both posts, balancing under the crossbar, hitting the crossbar with the puck, piling snow up, skating around the net 3 times, or whatever.

In football they just pray. Because, you know, God really cares if you catch the ball or make a first down.

But athletes have always been alarmingly superstitious. Whatever works, I guess. Sorry for the threadjack.

No need to be sorry man, that is what it is all about! Don't talk about a no hitter, etc.