Game Day Rituals: The Superstitions and Habits of Elite Coaches

17 November 2025

Success in sports isn't just about talent or strategy—sometimes, it's about rituals, traditions, and downright bizarre superstitions. Coaches, like athletes, have their own game-day habits that they swear by. From wearing the same lucky socks to following a strict pre-game meal routine, these rituals go beyond logic.

But why do some of the most successful coaches in the world rely on these habits? Is it just routine, or do they genuinely believe these small actions impact the game? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of game-day rituals and the superstitions of elite coaches.

The Psychology Behind Rituals in Sports

Before we get into the quirks of famous coaches, let’s talk about why these rituals even matter. Sports psychology suggests that rituals help reduce anxiety and boost confidence. When coaches follow a routine, they feel a sense of control over the unpredictable nature of a game. Whether it’s repeating a phrase, sitting in the same spot, or wearing a lucky tie, these habits provide comfort.

Athletes have routines, too, but for coaches—who aren't physically playing—it’s often about maintaining a sense of order and consistency. The mind plays as big a role as the body in sports, and for many coaches, their rituals are a key part of staying mentally sharp.

The Weird and Wacky Rituals of Elite Coaches

Now, let's get into the good stuff. Here are some of the strangest, most dedicated game-day rituals from top coaches across different sports.

1. Bill Belichick – The Hoodie Tradition

The legendary New England Patriots coach is known for his no-nonsense approach to football, but there's one thing he refuses to change—his hoodie. Fans have noticed that he often wears the same cutoff-sleeve hoodie, particularly in big games. While he has never outright admitted it's a superstition, the consistency speaks for itself.

Does the hoodie have powers? Probably not. But in Belichick’s mind, it’s part of his game-day identity.

2. Gregg Popovich – The Wine Ritual

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is famous for his love of fine wine. While not necessarily a superstition, he has a tradition of sharing quality wine with his coaching staff before big games or after tough losses. For Popovich, it’s more than just a drink—it’s a way to build camaraderie and reset mentally.

3. Nick Saban – The Oatmeal Cream Pie Habit

Alabama's coaching mastermind Nick Saban has a strict pre-game routine that includes eating an oatmeal cream pie every morning. It sounds simple, but to him, it’s a crucial part of keeping order in his daily life. Saban is a creature of habit, and any deviation from his schedule is reportedly frustrating for him.

4. Phil Jackson – The Zen Master’s Moment of Meditation

Phil Jackson, also known as the "Zen Master," took a unique approach to coaching. Before games, he incorporated meditation and deep breathing exercises with his teams. He believed in mindfulness as a tool to prepare his players both mentally and emotionally. Unlike other superstitions, Jackson's routine had scientific backing—calming the mind can improve focus and performance.

5. José Mourinho – The Lucky Touch

Soccer coach José Mourinho has been seen touching the grass before matches, almost as if seeking a connection with the field. While he hasn’t publicly admitted it’s a superstition, cameras have caught him doing it multiple times. When you’re one of the most decorated managers in football, maybe little habits like these help maintain confidence.

6. John Wooden – The Same Game-Day Speech

Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden had a habit of delivering a nearly identical speech before every game. While most coaches adjust their pre-game talks based on opponents, Wooden believed consistency was key. His approach reinforced a sense of stability, which may have played a role in his team's dominance.

Why Do These Superstitions Persist?

If you break it down, most of these rituals have no direct connection to winning games. Wearing a specific hoodie or eating the same snack before a game shouldn’t realistically impact performance. So why do coaches stick with them?

1. Routine Reduces Stress

Game days come with immense pressure. Coaches, like athletes, need to stay composed. Rituals provide structure, eliminating unnecessary distractions.

2. Confidence Booster

If a coach associates a habit with past success, they’re likely to repeat it. Even if it’s purely psychological, confidence can be a powerful advantage.

3. Symbolism and Tradition

Some rituals are about representing something bigger—whether it’s a personal belief, a tribute to past successes, or simply a superstition passed down through generations.

Should Athletes and Coaches Have Rituals?

Absolutely! While some habits can be a bit quirky, having a structured routine can be beneficial. The key is ensuring that the routine doesn’t turn into an obsession. If a coach or athlete starts believing they must follow a superstition or risk losing, it can become an unhealthy reliance.

The best approach? Use rituals as a tool, not a crutch. If wearing lucky socks makes you feel better, go for it. But at the end of the day, preparation, strategy, and execution matter far more than superstition.

Final Thoughts

Game-day rituals are fascinating, sometimes bizarre, but undeniably a part of sports culture. Whether it’s Belichick's hoodie, Saban's oatmeal cream pie, or Jackson’s meditation, these habits shape the mindset of elite coaches.

As fans, we might laugh at some of these superstitions, but deep down, we all have our own little rituals too. Maybe it’s wearing a lucky jersey while watching a game or sitting in the same spot on the couch. Superstition or not, if it makes us feel more connected to the game, it’s doing its job.

At the end of the day, sports are unpredictable. But if a small habit helps a coach feel just a little more in control, who are we to question it?