We all know that athletes prepare for hours, and days, and weeks and months for their games. Train at the highest level so that they can perform and win on gameday. However, any die hard fan also knows that none of that matters. It's all about the gameday traditions that us fans do that determine the outcome of every game.
As the superbowl approaches, I have had an entire season of traditions to ensure my Niners win games.
First tradition - 49ers sheets. These sheets can't be switched out for any others all season. If I sleep on other sheets? Niners lose games. I can't have that on my conscious. This guarantees a good rest the night before a game. For me and for the players. Gotta be well rested.
3 days before the game - Niners gear must be worn. Starts with a hat, and gets better as the week goes on.
2 Days before the game - Niners cap, red Niners shirt.
1 Day before the game - Niners cap, gold Niners shirt.
Gameday - Niners cap, red Niners shirt (see 3 days before the game), Niners jersey on top. Black Nike high-tops. (the high-tops tradition started this year, and not every game.)
Rumor has it, the Niners are undefeated when I wear these on gameday |
This combination guarantees a victory. Last time I didn't do this? Niners got lit up by the Seahawks. I blame myself for the loss. I tweeted some of the team that I follow to apologize, and vowed to make sure the rest of the season didn't happen that way. Especially in the playoffs.
I would say that these superstitions were crazy, but like the commercial says, it's only crazy if it doesn't work. And this my friends, works.
Hi there - I’m a health and science writer for NBCNEws.com, and I’m looking into the science of sports fans’ superstition. It’s pegged to, of course, the Super Bowl. I thought this post from you was so funny, and I’d love to chat with you about it. If you’re interested, let me know when you might be available for a quick phone chat tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
Melissa
melissa.dahl@msnbc.com