In the high-pressure world of sports officiating, maintaining focus and consistency is crucial. Like athletes, referees often have their own superstitions, rituals, and habits that help them prepare for games and manage the stress of making split-second decisions. Here's a look at some of the most interesting and unusual superstitions and habits of famous referees.
Joey Crawford, one of the most well-known referees in NBA history, was notorious for his fiery personality and authoritative presence on the court. Crawford also had a unique pre-game ritual: he always used the same silver dollar for the opening tip-off. This lucky coin was part of his game-day routine for years, and he believed it brought him good fortune and consistency in his officiating.
Pierluigi Collina, often regarded as one of the greatest soccer referees of all time, is instantly recognizable by his bald head. While his shaved head became his trademark look, it also had a practical purpose. Collina believed that his bald head helped players and fans easily identify him on the field, enhancing his authority. Additionally, maintaining this distinct appearance became a pre-game ritual that helped him get into the right mindset before each match.
NHL referee Bill McCreary, known for officiating some of the most important games in hockey, had a peculiar habit before each game. McCreary would tap his stick on the ice three times before the puck drop. This ritual was his way of focusing his mind and signaling to himself that it was time to be at his best. The stick tap became a comforting and familiar routine that helped him prepare mentally for the challenges of the game.
Ed Hochuli, one of the most famous referees in the NFL, is as well-known for his muscular physique as for his officiating skills. Hochuli has a rigorous pre-game workout routine that he follows religiously. He believes that staying in peak physical condition is essential for maintaining the stamina and mental clarity needed to make accurate calls. His dedication to fitness is both a superstition and a practical approach to ensuring he performs at his best.
Longtime NBA referee Dick Bavetta, who holds the record for most consecutive games officiated, had a unique superstition involving his socks. Bavetta believed that wearing a specific pair of socks for each game brought him good luck. These lucky socks” became an integral part of his game-day attire. Regardless of their condition, Bavetta would don these socks, convinced that they contributed to his longevity and success on the court.
Renowned soccer referee Howard Webb, who officiated the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, had a pre-match ritual of maintaining complete silence in the locker room before stepping onto the field. Webb used this time to focus and mentally prepare for the game ahead. The silence helped him clear his mind and concentrate on the upcoming match, ensuring that he was fully alert and ready to handle any situation that arose.
Violet Palmer, the first woman to officiate an NBA game, had a habit of giving herself a pep talk before each game. Standing in front of a mirror, Palmer would remind herself of her abilities and mentally rehearse handling difficult situations. This ritual boosted her confidence and reinforced her readiness to face the challenges of officiating at the highest level. Her pep talks were a crucial part of her pre-game preparation, helping her maintain a positive and assertive mindset.
Superstitions and rituals are not uncommon in the world of sports, and referees are no exception. From Joey Crawford's lucky coin to Ed Hochuli's pre-game workouts, these habits help officials prepare mentally and physically for the demanding task of officiating. Whether rooted in tradition, personal belief, or practicality, these superstitions and rituals offer a fascinating glimpse into the minds of some of the most famous referees. They highlight the importance of mental preparation and the unique ways in which individuals cope with the pressures of their profession.
