In the sports world, superstitions are certain actions athletes do because they believe these actions improve their abilities.

We asked athletes and coaches at Dover High School if they had any superstitions to share with us. Mrs. Rees, the HS cheerleading coach, said that she “Won’t wear black on Dover game days” because “It’s not a school color.” This is a very reasonable superstition because it boosts school morale and supports our athletes. Maddie Minnis, a volleyball, basketball, and track star, said that she listens to Mr. Brightside by The Killers before every game or meet because it pumps her up. Kara Lint, a senior softball player, said that anytime she practices pitching with her sister, Abby Lint, a freshman, Abby has to go first or else they both pitch badly that day.

Even famous athletes have some interesting superstitions. For example, baseball pitcher Turk Wendell would brush his teeth in the dugout after every inning to stay “fresh” and chewed black licorice instead of the typical tobacco. Michael Jordan would supposedly wear his practice college basketball shorts under his NBA shorts while playing as his good luck charm. Former LSU head football coach Les Miles had the interesting habit of putting a piece of the field’s grass in his mouth and eating it on the sidelines.

While these superstitions may bring peace of mind to coaches and athletes, they can quickly become anxiety-inducing due to the pressure of playing well. On the other hand, some superstitions bring confidence to the player, as they feel that their routine or ritual boosts their game. Superstitions are more mental, but if they help give coaches and players the confidence they need, then why try to stop them?