The Rampage Apr 2025

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BU Students Share Silly Superstitions by Zander Slough | Sports Communication • 2028

S uperstitions are beliefs or practices that have evolved due to fear of the unknown or noticing that certain events or activities relate to how things happen without reason. Superstitions are most commonly practiced by people because of to a feeling of control or comfort that results when things are unpredictable or events are out of human control. These superstitions are often firmly rooted in tradition, culture, or experience and signify a desire to control destiny or keep bad luck at bay. Whether it is not walking under a ladder, knocking on wood, or carrying a charm, superstitions can provide individuals with a sense of security or explain the arbitrariness of life. However, they lack the scientific basis to demonstrate that they are effective. Some of the greatest athletes have superstitions; here are some examples. Former professional hockey player Wayne Gretzky had a superstition about his stick. He would always keep a certain number of sticks with him and avoid changing them during a streak of good performance. Former NBA great Michael Jordan was famously known for wearing his University of North Carolina shorts under his Chicago Bulls uniform. He believed they brought him good luck and comfort. Bluefield University students are no different as they have their own superstitions. For example, BU baseball player Buzz Greenman has a superstition that he thinks helps him play better. “I must wear my glasses when pitching,” Greenman said. “It helps me pitch and focus better.” Ricky Vaughn from the movie Major League had the same superstition, and BU football player Jay Phelps has a superstition related to Gatorade. “I have to drink two bottles or glasses of blue Gatorade or Powerade before I play,” Phelps said. “I have been doing this since high school and it makes me play better.” Former BU football player Kerly Thelusme said he never walks under a ladder because he’s heard that if you do it will bring bad luck, and BU worship and praise leader Savannah Taylor said she always knocks on wood after saying something she hopes to happen.

Other BU students, like graphic communication major John Thompson, said he doesn’t pick up a penny if the “tail” side is up because he thinks it’s “unlucky.” Fellow communication major Karyss Milby is not afraid of the penny, but instead spilling salt. “My superstition is that if I spill a salt shaker I have to pick the salt up and throw it over my shoulder (to avoid bad luck),” Milby said. So, whether passed down through generations or created through personal experience, superstitions continue to play a role in many people’s lives, even on the campus of Bluefield University. While science may not back up their effectiveness, these small rituals and beliefs give people a sense of comfort and control. From athletes sticking to pregame routines to students avoiding bad luck, superstitions offer a glimpse into how we try to shape our fate, one lucky charm or knock on wood at a time.

BU Baseball player Buzz Greenman says he has to wear his glasses when pitching a game.