It’s the first seasonal game day for Canucks today, and while heading to the BCIT Radio Arts HQ, I saw tons of fans repping their Canucks jerseys, ready to cheer. And it got me thinking… Don’t we all have our little rituals before something big?
The anticipation, adrenaline, nerves… But have you ever wondered why so many players and fans have these specific routines before a game? It’s not just superstition! I think it’s about focus, energy, and connecting to something bigger. As my professor, Brian once said, “it’s about feeling like you belong”. Whether it’s a personal habit or a tradition passed down, these rituals are a powerful way to get in the zone.
So, I did a little research and wanted to take you on a quick dive into the world of pre-game rituals. Let’s explore why they matter… From what athletes do before hitting the field to the quirky habits fans swear to bring their team luck.
I’m from Brazil and I was remember about 10 years ago, when Neymar was just blowing up in Brazil. He and his dad had this ritual before every big game where they’d have a special conversation. Seeing that bond even inspired Beats to make a whole commercial about it. Check it out:
(Pretty cool, right? I love stuff like this that shows we’re all in it together, haha.)
Honestly, sports aren’t that different from life. Players, fans, and even regular people rely on these routines to focus and feel ready for anything. Some might seem random or funny, but they often hold deep personal or cultural meaning.
Take Andrei Kuzmenko for example. Back when he played for Canucks, he used to read the team lineup before the game. It wasn’t just a job; it was his way of connecting with the team and getting in the right mindset to win. Little things like this can make all the difference, in my opinion.
Now, let’s talk about us… The fans. We’ve got our own rituals, too! Whether it’s wearing the same jersey for every game or sitting in a specific spot on the couch, we create an atmosphere full of energy, ready to back our team. At the stadium, it’s even bigger, right? Fans show up in team colors, waving flags, or chanting in unison. It’s more than just watching… It’s part of the experience.
You’d think there was an actual playoff game happening here… 11,000 tickets sold for a viewing party at Rogers Arena. All tickets $15, the proceeds going to Canucks for Kids Fund @GlobalBC pic.twitter.com/GQJfXHkTwe
— Alissa Thibault (@AlissaMThibault) April 27, 2024
Fans really believe they can influence the game, even if it’s just through the energy they bring.
And now I ask, why are rituals so important? On the surface, they might seem like habits or even superstitions, but there’s more to it. Rituals give a sense of control when the outcome feels uncertain… Like the unpredictability of a game.
For athletes, rituals help reduce anxiety and boost focus, giving them that mental edge. For fans, these traditions create a connection and make them feel like they’re part of the action.
Whether it’s Kuzmenko reading the lineup or Neymar’s moments with his dad, these rituals are at the heart of sports, music, and life. They’re not just habits they’re powerful tools for preparation and success. Don’t you agree?
Now, I want to hear from you! What’s your ritual?
Do you have a pre-game routine or something you do before a big something?
Let me know in the comments! 😉