Hockey is a game of precision, speed, and grit, but for many players, the outcome isn’t solely determined by skill or strategy. Hidden beneath the surface of every pass, shot, or save is a world of personal rituals, quirky behaviors, and superstitions that players believe give them the edge to win. Superstitions are deeply ingrained in hockey culture, and while they may seem irrational to outsiders, many athletes swear by them as a necessary part of their routine. These traditions range from minor, seemingly harmless habits to intense rituals that players meticulously follow before, during, and after games. But what are some of these superstitions, and why do players believe they make a difference?

1. The Power of Pre-Game Rituals

For many players, the game begins long before they step on the ice. Pre-game rituals are often highly individualized, with each player developing their own routine to get mentally and physically prepared for the competition. One common tradition is putting on gear in a specific order, such as always putting the left skate on before the right or tying one side of the laces tighter than the other. These rituals may seem like small quirks, but for players, they represent a way to control their environment in the chaotic world of professional sports.

Sidney Crosby, one of the greatest players in NHL history, is well-known for his pre-game routines. Crosby always sticks to the same meal before a game (a sandwich with peanut butter and jelly) and even tapes his stick the same way every time. For him and many others, these habits are about consistency and creating a sense of comfort and control before the uncertainty of the game.

2. Lucky Gear and the Mystique of Hockey Sticks

Hockey gear, especially sticks, can hold almost mystical significance for players. Many players believe in “lucky” equipment, with some athletes holding onto their gloves, helmets, or skates for far longer than practical, simply because they associate it with winning performances. Sticks, in particular, are often treated with a high degree of reverence. Some players tape their sticks in a very specific way, believing that any deviation from the ritual will result in a poor game. Others won’t allow anyone else to touch their stick once it’s been taped, as they believe it could “transfer bad luck.”

In fact, the treatment of hockey sticks is so vital to players that some will even perform strange actions before using a new stick, such as kissing the blade or “talking” to it, asking it to perform well in the upcoming game. Whether it’s a favorite pair of skates or a trusty stick, players often feel that these objects possess a certain energy or luck, and switching them out could jeopardize their performance.

3. The Sacred Pre-Game Nap

It’s no secret that hockey is physically demanding, and staying sharp requires the right mix of rest and preparation. Enter the pre-game nap, a cherished part of many players’ routines. Almost universally, hockey players believe in the power of the nap to recharge their bodies and minds before a game. The nap itself isn’t necessarily about superstition; it’s a practical way to rest before exerting so much energy. However, the consistency with which players stick to their napping habits, right down to the exact timing and conditions (dark room, specific amount of time, etc.), hints at the deeply ingrained superstition behind it.

In fact, many players have a specific time they nap before games, such as 2 hours and 45 minutes before puck drop. Skipping the nap or even napping too long or too short can make some players feel “off” and throw off their entire game.

4. Winning Streak Superstitions

Hockey is a team sport, and superstitions often take hold in the locker room when a team is on a winning streak. Players may decide to avoid shaving their beards, stick to a specific routine on game days, or even sit in the same spots in the locker room. This is the idea behind the “playoff beard,” where players let their facial hair grow until their team is eliminated. It’s believed that by growing the beard, players are protecting their team’s luck and momentum throughout the playoffs.

Players also develop team-wide rituals, like having the same person lead the team onto the ice or making sure to touch a specific part of the rink boards before stepping onto the ice. Some players are so committed to maintaining the streak that they’ll even avoid talking about it, believing that discussing the streak could somehow jinx it.

5. Goalie Superstitions: A World of Their Own

Goaltenders in hockey are often considered the most superstitious players of all. Given the intense pressure they face to be the last line of defense, many goalies turn to rituals as a way to maintain focus. Some goalies have elaborate routines that they perform before each game or even before every period. For example, Patrick Roy, one of the greatest goalies in NHL history, famously talked to his goalposts, thanking them for helping him make saves. He believed they had a sort of consciousness that could affect his game.

Goalies may also have specific ways they prepare their gear, handle their water bottles, or even skate onto the ice. Every detail, down to the smallest habit, can hold deep significance for a goalie. And woe to anyone who interferes with their routine.

6. Post-Game Traditions and Superstitions

Superstitions don’t stop once the game is over. Many players have post-game rituals that they follow religiously, whether it’s what they eat, how they untape their sticks, or even how they shower. Some players will avoid certain foods or drinks on game days altogether, believing that it can affect their performance even if consumed hours after the game is done.

Even celebrations can become part of the superstitions, with some players sticking to specific victory dances, songs, or locker room activities following a win. These rituals are often about protecting good luck for future games, reinforcing the belief that hockey is as much about preparation and ritual as it is about skill.

Why Superstitions Matter to Players

For athletes, hockey is a high-stakes, fast-paced game where many variables are outside their control. Superstitions offer a way to exert some form of influence over these unknowns, helping players feel grounded and focused amid the unpredictability of the sport. By sticking to their routines, players can create a sense of normalcy that calms their nerves and builds their confidence.

While there’s no scientific proof that wearing a lucky skate or eating the same pre-game meal improves performance, the psychological benefit of these rituals is undeniable. They provide comfort and structure, allowing players to focus on their tasks with fewer distractions. In an environment as competitive and stressful as hockey, these small mental boosts can make all the difference.

Final Take on Hockey Superstitions

Hockey superstitions are as much a part of the sport as the puck or the ice. They reflect the deep connection players have to the game, where every detail matters, and every edge counts. From pre-game rituals to mid-game quirks and post-game traditions, superstitions give players a sense of control over their fate, helping them stay sharp, focused, and ready to win. So, whether it’s a lucky stick, a pre-game nap, or talking to goalposts, these beliefs are here to stay, shaping the fabric of hockey culture for generations to come.