On the TunneySide of Sports November 18, 2019, #770 Up next… Superstitions?
After further review… When Houston Rockets All-Star James Harden walked onto the court recently as he prepared to play the Golden State Warriors, he made the sign of the cross. A gesture that many athletes perform. Does it help or is it just a ritual? Or is it perhaps a recognition to a higher power for giving him the opportunity to play professional basketball? Does Harden whose field goal percentage ranks him in the 36–38% of all NBA players need that help? Is it his way of being grateful? Is he trying to ensure success?
I am reminded of the story of the Catholic priest who invited his Jewish Rabbi friend to attend a Los Angeles Dodgers game (Mr. O’Malley was always generous to the religious). As they watched a Dominican Republic player step into the batter’s box, he made the sign of the cross. The rabbi said to the priest, “Will that help him?” The priest said, “Not if he can’t hit.”
If you laugh or disavow sports stars that have traits of superstition, are you any different? Do you always put your left sock and shoe on first (or vice-versa)? Do you even notice? Do you care? If you are right-handed but place your left thumb on top of your right thumb when you fold your fingers does it feel awkward?
Is it superstition or just routine? Most athletes have physical tasks they observe/perform. For example. basketball players at the free-throw line bounce the ball “X” times before shooting. Golfers have exacting routines before each shot. Many say those are not superstitions, but rituals. Is there a difference? Baseball players will not step on the baselines or bag when entering or leaving the field.
As an NFL referee. I avoided stepping on sidelines upon entering the field. After tossing the coin prior to the opening kickoff. I would run to my position at the goal line, turn toward the field with my hands behind me and tap the padding around the goal post. This was a reminder to concentrate on the kickoff and focus on my job.
You can call them superstitions, rituals, routines or whatever, but if it helps increase your level of concentration, it is probably something you should continue. Loss of focus may be the number one reason for failure, which is to be avoided at all times.
Will you comment on how superstitions or routines help you in your job?
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