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TennisTell Us About Your Steelers Superstitions
POSTED: 1:30 pm EST January 16,
2006
UPDATED: 1:13 pm EST January 8,
2008
Pittsburgh fans: On game day, do you...
Then we want to hear from you!E-mail WTAE Channel 4 Action News at newsroom@thepittsburghchannel.com and tell us about all the weird ways that you try to influence the outcome of a game.Please include your first name and hometown and in your e-mails.
Here's what you're saying so far:
Here is how I watch Steeler games: I have Steelers lights and entire steeler villages that are all turned on. I burn candles in Steeler containers of course. I even had a XL Steeler slot machine that I light up. All of the main lights are off. I have a Steeler troll doll that I rub his hair when things are tense. Of course I have my terrible towel by my side and wear Steeler jewelry and jersey. I have a 4 ft Steeler blowup that I have out as well. I always feel that if the room is not just right it will somehow affect the outcome of the game. I have several cds of Steeler music that I play full blast when a score is made.- Karen - Orlando, Fla.
I always wear my Steeler earrings, underwear, socks, hair scrunchie and faithful Jerome Bettis jersey. If I'm going out to watch the game and its cold, I of course wear my Steeler coat. Then, I have to be holding my terrible towel, my Steeler Bear and my Snoopy stuffed animal who is dressed in a Steeler Uniform complete with the helmet. My dogs have a Steeler jersey and bandana. If I am home, I have my Steeler light string lit up near the TV. Everytime the Steelers have a good play or score a touchdown, not only do I waive the terrible towel, but have to kiss my Steeler Bear and Snoopy, and make everyone near me do the same or I think it will bring the Steelers bad luck. I also religiously rub the Steeler Bear's head during tense moments and he has to be watching the game at all times. Love the Steelers!!- Cathy - Yellow Springs, Ohio
I hand painted these awesome black & gold, splatter painted, rhinestoned Steeler denim jeans that I wore in 2006 to the Cincinatti Playoff Game, the Denver Playoff Game and on to the SUPERBOWL in Detroit when we painted the Seahawks (and the city of Detroit too) with a black and gold Steeler Victory. After the SuperBowl win I added Super Bowl XL and hand painted the Steelers Super Bowl Ring right on the jeans and filled with Swarovski crystals.I wore these Jeans to the Steeler Game this passed Sunday to remind the Seahawks of SB XL and it worked again, as we 'painted' the Seahawks once again!I've also created another pair of unique, hand painted, rhinestone studded, 75th Steeler Anniversary blue jeans twhich I have worn to each home game this year---and it appears they doing their thing -- and 'blinding' our opponents with the diamond Steeler Studded jeans.P.S. The Super Bowl jeans.....I'm afraid to wash them...for fear they will loose their 'magic'!- Melanie Patterson
I have a small stuffed Steeler teddy bear on my desk at work. All of my fellow Steeler fans have to rub Teddy's head for good luck before every game...he's going bald! - Chris (originally from Houston, PA)
First I never wear anything Steeler when watching on TV, (they lose if I do) but have to wear Steeler items when I'm at the game. At home watching I sit on my love seat, and cross my legs when they are on offense and keep my legs straight when they are on defense.- Ray Schamus
If it is a Sunday game, I get up, check the Steelers local media Web sites (thepittsburghchannel.com for one). I get all my Steelers clothes on, listen to the 10 a.m. Black and Gold show on 970 The Burgh via the Net. I then switch over to 93.5 WTPA at 11:00 and listen to the Pregame with the Steelers Roundtable.
I DO NOT watch ESPN, CBS or FOX pregame stuff. I make sure I have supper done by 1:00. I do not want to be distracted during the game. I have the radio on during the game, and turn the sound down. I hate the national talking heads. Tunch, Hilgrove and Wolfley are the guys. At half time I listen to the half time adjustments, and make wings for the second half. Then finish off the game, and listen to the post game. I REALLY MISS MYRON! Of course I have my Terrible Towel on top of the TV and drink my customary Iron City before the game! GO STEELERS!!- Ronn Roden in Marietta Pa., 212 miles east of Heinz Field in Lancaster County
WEAR SAME SHIRT, HAT, OTHER CLOTHES AS LONG AS THEY ARE WINNING!
WATCH GAME BY SELF IN KITCHEN, DON'T WANT BOTHERED BY OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE!
See Picture- Stephen S.
I LOVE THE STEELERS! My brother-in-law built a circular puzzle for me, glued it together and attached it to a black and gold piece of wood. It HAS to be below the TV during the game. I bow down to it, I kiss it, I pet it, whatever it takes to make the game go the Steelers way. There have been too many coincidences of losing the game when I watched it somewhere else and forgot my puzzle. I try not to leave it behind anymore.
See Picture- Lorri, Butler
This summer, we moved into a house where I could finally create my perfect "Steelers Get-A-Way" in the basement. I bought an HD projector, subscribed to HD TV and added various other expensive amnenities that would help me cheer the Steelers on to winning their second consecutive Super Bowl. The night of the Miami game, I was in heaven, watching the Steelers win on a 64" inch screen with a cold IC Light in my hand.But then my parents gave me my birthday present. They snuck into my house while I was at work and proceeded to paint one of the walls in a beautiful Black & Gold and hung up a handmade Steelers emblem ...
See PictureAt first I was overjoyed, what 30-year old would ask for more? But then bad things started happening down there. Steelers would fumble ball for no reason. Ben was throwing interceptions at key points in the game. The basement was no longer a joyful place.One ray of hope emerged during the KC game, but the thing was, I wasn't in the basement at the time. I was driving home from Erie after an exasperating weekend with the Parents-In-Law. I listened on the radio, but in the back of my mind I was thinking "Was this beatiful Steelers emblem that my mother worked hours on cursed?" She too is a die-hard Steeler fan and certainly wouldn't have taken the emblem to a church in Cleveland to be blessed by some Browns-Loving Priest, would she?So, I continued to watch the games down there. I watched in horror as the Steelers let Michael Vick run wild. I watched them lose to the lowly Raiders while allowing them less than 100 offensive yards. I watched them be manhandled by the hated Broncos. And foolsishly, I watched the first 30 minutes into Sunday's Saints game.At halftime, I gave up for the season. I hung my terrible towels over the emblem, only to be revealed again at the beginning of the 2007 training camp:
See PictureI retired back upstairs to my small 17-inch television to watch the remainder of the game. And they won.So now what? I have spent well over $1,000 on the basement setup solely to watch the Steelers. But that seems to be a lost investment. I will spend the rest of the season just like I did last year, squinting to see who it was that intercepted that ball and waiting for next year when I can again attempt to enjoy the games downstairs. However, I will be trying to find a Steeler-Loving Priest to lift the "Shanafelt Curse of The Emblem".- Michael Shanafelt, Hollidaysburg, Pa.
I was reading through your website and just had to add my own...I'm a very lucky Steelers fan. My parents have held season tickets for 30+ years. I went to college in Erie, and every time I was home during a home game, my mom would let me have her seat. The same thing happened after school, when I moved to Virginia Beach - every time I was home, I got the ticket. During all of this time (a span of about 7 years), none of the games that I went to were losses! I even came to two of the games that wretched year when we only won 3 games.I moved back to the 'Burgh last summer, and for my birthday, my friends bought me pre-season tickets to the Redskins game in D.C. I was excited - first away game, and my dad gave me a new Ben jersey. I wore it, and you know the outcome - we lost! Unbelievable!!I began to worry about the jersey, so I didn't wear it to the opener or the Patriots game. My sister wasn't going to the Patriots game, so she borrowed it to wear for tailgating. Somehow she managed to finangle a ticket and got into Heinz Field right around half time. Don't know how much you remember of the game, but we were ahead until then. And we wound up losing...So, no more Ben jersey. I was lucky enough to get tickets for every home game last year, and we won the Super Bowl. I got season tickets this year and have full intentions of the team continuing the trend!!- Sarah Crawshaw, North Side, Pittsburgh
I moved away from Pittsburgh in 1974 when I joined the Air Force. I’ve remained an avid Steeler fan. I do push-ups during their games because I’ve learned the more push-ups I do, the better the Steelers do. I did 600 push-ups during their AFC Championship victory over the Broncos and I did 800 during the Super Bowl. See, it works!- Bob in Albuquerque
I'm a child of the '60s, having seen the Pirates win the 1960 World Series. I use a "green weanie" (old Pirates' whammy to jinx the opposing team when they try field goals, etc. I no longer have my original plastic one, so I use my green rubber Heinz, pickle-shaped key chain - kinda shaped like a weanie. And it works. That's why Vanderjagt missed that field goal in the playoffs.- Spyboots, now displaced Yinzer, originally from South Side Pittsburgh
Hello & Greetings from Palm Desert, CA...The winter golf home of QB Ben Roethlisberger...As for me, I always wear my Steelers gear, but if they get in a tight spot, I flip my Steelers cap into rally mode by either turning it backwards.The Steelers have a dedicated legion of fans here in the Southern California desert & we look forward to seeing the fellas defend their title."Here we go!!!" How about we make it "6 in 2006" Go Steelers!!!Frank Torok
I moved to Alaska back in 1963 and have always been a avid Steelers Fan. We don't take our Christmas tree down until the Steelers loose or win the Super Bowl .I think this year is a new record.
Ron Sturgeon Anchorage Alaska
OK, this was too fun not to reply to. I’m so glad there are people as crazy as us… We’re working hard to keep the Steelers spirit alive and healthy on the “other coast”. Our superstitions are as follows…
1.Must wear Steelers shirt…and it must touch your skin somewhere. Meaning you’re not allowed to wear another shirt under it, unless the Steelers shirt touches you.
2.Must make homemade Primanti’s sandwiches at halftime. Being that we’re in California, we’ve had to convince people that this is completely customary and should not be debated. Those not willing to participate are banished.
3.MUST jump around like an idiot and dance with the dogs after big plays. Especially those involving wild tackles by Polamalu. Whipping out ridiculous 1980’s style cheerleading moves or football dances is highly encouraged.
4.During the playoffs, NEVER assume a win or dare to incorporate the Steelers name with the following weeks game. Bragging is an obvious NO-NO! Especially to other teams fans, because it would affect the Steelers pride and integrity. Oh and never engage in other team bashing! Have to follow the lead of our coach and players…classy-est team in the NFL!
5.Wear the same Steelers shirt the day after the game. Doesn’t matter where…bed, work, gym, whatever.
Yes, we realize we’re nuts…but whatever!!! I’m convinced it’s working!!
Laura, Lake Tahoe, CA
Oh and a little “PS”… My husband has been so amazed by the Steelers and the Pittsburgh fans over the last 9 years that he follows the traditions. I think he originally did it to humor me, but is now a believer. He grew up in Seattle (oy-vey)! This might have lead us to marriage counseling and intervention, but thankfully he’s 100% black and gold these days.
My friend Johna is the queen of Steeler Superstitions! We both live in Las Vegas now, but she is from Latrobe and I am from Harrison City(near Jeannette/greensburg). Most of her life revolves around her superstitions!On Game days, She wears the same steeler PJ's, no matter what time the game is- and they do not get washed when we are winning! She has her 8 Steeler earrings she only wears during games, she has specific times she wil shower, do her makeup and wear her hair too on game days. She also belives that she has a "jersey curse" so she cannot wear or own a current players jersey. I personally must shower before the game and let my hair dair dry and can't wear a pony tail until we score. I had to stop using my Steeler scrunchie in my hair because i accidentally wore the home one on an away game and that just messed everything up! We all have to wear the same things we wore the week before. We each have our own assigned seat during the game... Even my 7 year old daughter Kayla is consious of the "mojo." THe first half of the season she wore her cheer leader outfit, but after the losing spell she now wears her Ben jersey every game and worries about what socks she has to wear! We also believe that the power also lies within the Cheeseball! Every game we've won i've made my famous cheeseball! It will be the cheeseball that wins the superbowl for us!And, even though the list goes on and on and on... after each playoff game we have toasted our win with campagne in black flutes with gold ribbons tied around them!HERE WE GO STEELERS!Erica
Las Vegas, NV
My family and I sadly do not live in the burgh anymore. We are still diehard Steeler fans living in of all places Eagles territory.We wear the same clothing for each game. We each have a game day jersey and if we win, it does not get washed until we lose. Also, my 16 year old daughter is quite the little brat. She wore a friend's colts sweat shirt the day we played them and we won. So I bought her a bronco t-shirt and paid her five dollars to wear it all day last Sunday. I have already purchased her a Seahawk item to wear.Also in honor of Troy, no one is allowed to get a hair cut until after the super bowl.We here in Newtown PA are diehard Steeler fans and are mad at Rendell for ignoring us all year then reaping the rewards of the super bowl. If anyone should go to this game, it should be us not him. He does a post game show for the Eagles every week. He acted like the Steelers were from Alaska last year when we beat them.There are Steeler fans everywhere!!! HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!!!Kathleen F. Reidy
I have a Ward jersey I DO NOT wash when we win. Last season... well you know how long it went without a washing. My Mom sprayed me with Febreze for the playoff game and we lost. This year NO FEBREZE! The funk will live on! GO STEELERS!!!
Lisa T.
New Castle, PA
I was watching last night when you were going over the superstitions, etc. Well....I still have my Christmas tree up, last year I took it down the day before the playoff they lost....my grandson told me it would be bad luck so it's still up this year, also my daughterinlaw has hers up too and barely alive...told her not to take it down. Go Steelers
Judy B.
Every gameday we have a meal consisting of the food from the opponents region. 2 weeks ago it was Cincinnati Chili, last week fried pork tenderloin sandwiches and this week with a three o'clock kickoff a Sunday brunch featuring Denver omelets sounds perfect.In two weeks we'll either be eating Carolina barbeque, or a Seattle seafood feast.Moe The Dog, Greensburg
When the Steelers win and I am wearing a certain shirt or outfit then I wear the same thing until they lose and that is even underwear, usually black, socks and pants. Also I wear the Terrible Towels in my belt loops the same way. I also have a my favorite Steeler paraphernalia that I have had for years. I am a 56 year old single woman who has been a diehard fan for many years and just as goofy as the rest.- Michele, Fairmont, W.Va.
My Steelers superstition is that I cannot wear my Steeler jersey to church on Sundays. I feel that If I wear it, my team will lose!- Melissa, New Castle
I have a Myron Cope Bobble Head Doll that I have on display in my living room along with lots of other Steeler decorations (that by the way stay up all year long). Before each game I take the doll & rub its cute little bald head & ask Myron to bring us luck....- Denise, Markleton, Pa.
Each game day we grill venison outside, everyone sits in the same seat in our steeler room. We wear Terrible Towels on our heads and shoulders.
Eric "Scott" Fitzpatrick from Butler PA
OUT STEELER TRADITION GOES BACK TO THE 70'S AND THE SUPER STEELERS. WE LEAVE OUR CHRISTMAS TREE UP EVERY YEAR UNTIL THE SEASON IS OVER FOR THE BLACK & GOLD. WE HAD SOME REAL "CHARLIE BROWN'ISH" LOOKING CHRSITMAS TREES BACK THEN. NOW THAT OUR FAMILY HAS GROWN AND MOVED AWAY, YOU CAN FIND CRISTMAS TREES STILL UP IN GREENSBURG; CLEARWATER,FL AND LAUREL , MD. DAVE, PHILIPPI, WV.
My husband informed me that we will lose if we don't fix nachos for the games...the games we lost this year..we did not make nachos....hmmm ......then last week when we made nachos and I told him he needs to eat nachos the second half of the game because he quit eating and look what happened to "My Beloved Bus!!!" BUT WE WON!!!!
We also have to wear our jerseys every game...Bettis, Roethlisberger, Polomalu, and Parker!!!! Go Steelers!!
The Critchlows
My oldest son started his way in the world the day after the last time the Steelers won a superbowl. His mother went into labor on Monday the 21st and he was born in Pittsburgh on the 22nd Jan 1980. It will be 26 years on Sunday and it’s about time for another superbowl. I now live in Switzerland and thanks to the “Armed Forces Network” I will be able to watch the game on Sunday. Good luck to ya Steelers and Happy Birthday Frank.
Frank J. Schofield
At the beginning of last year, I accidently wore my black underwear inside out and we won. So the next week, I wore my black underwear inside out and we won. I have been wearing my black underwear inside out for two years now. And to top it off, my husband washed the underwear in the white wash and so they were bleached, but the bleached part came out gold. So now I wear my gold and black underwear inside out.
Leann Thornton, Wheeling, WV
Our family talks to the Ben Roethlisberger and Hines Ward Fat Heads our 2 boys got for Christmas, every morning and night asking them to win the game! Also, the children have been having steeler day at school and since they have have been having steeler day- we have won every single game!
The Kruel Family Ligonier, Pennsylvania
Every sunday we have worn what we call our "uniforms", same steelers sweatshirts, jeans, shoes, etc.,etc. Nothing gets moved from anywhere it's been placed during the game. When it's time to go to the you know where, you have to walk the same route to where you are going. and return the same route. Everyone has their designated seats, never, never change seats. And last not least libations keep coming during the game, whether it be sipped or gulped, you have to have a libation. And if the momentum seems to swing to the opposition we all turn our sweatshirts inside out to rally our BELOVED STEELERS!!!! LOVE YA' BLACK N' GOLD
D. CARPELLOTTI
My mother-in-law gave me this small handmade STEELER DOLL about 5 years ago. I call it my WHAMMY DOLL. What I do is when the opposing team has the ball I take my STEELER WHAMMY DOLL AND SHAKE IT AT THE OPPOSING TEAM AND SAY WHAMMY WHAMMY WHAMMY. (UNTIL THE PLAY IS DONE) In this case on Sunday it will be WHAMMY WHAMMY WHAMMY DENVER.
Theresa, Pittsburgh
About an hour and a half before the Bears' game this season I ate 4 chili dogs with cheese and two chili cheeseburgers - only from Coney Island restuarant - and a twelve pack of IC light. I have been doing this an hour and a half before every game since and they have not lost.
Steve, New Castle, PA
i broke my steeler tradtion this past weekend i always go to my favorite sports bar this past weekend i stayed home with my 4 month old son and we won him with his ward jersey me and my unwashed ben jersey so this weekend we will once agian be watchin the game together god willing we will be ready for super bowl 40. Rich and Dezmin in Bradenton fl
My boyfriend and I sit in the same spots and wear the same clothes for the games. I have earrings, but they have been bad luck everytime I wear them, so needless to say, I haven't worn them all season. My son has to wave the terrible towel throughout the game to give our steelers good luck. My dad thinks we're crazy, but we don't care. GO STEELERS!!!
I always wear my Hines Ward jersey every game. And I do not washed it until they lose a game! So I have not washed it in 6 weeks. I don't want to wash the luckiness out of it. I won't be washing it until after the SuperBowl and get ready for next year! Go Steelers!!!!
Missi Otey, McKees Rocks, PA and Sarah-Greensburg
I wear my Steeler sweat suit (1995 AFC Champs!) and Steeler earrings, socks and necklace. I go down to the family room 30 minutes before the game, turn on the big screen, get my beer and snacks and sit down. Everyone in my family knows not to disturb me or try to engage me in conversation. I have one interest - THE GAME. No Negative talk, no matter what the score is!
My husband likes to armchair quarterback, so he watches the game upstairs or he has to keep quiet.
My dog gets worked up when I scream and run across the floor, whether to cheer or complain about a bad call (plenty of that going on). I have had a love affair with Steeler football since I was 15 years old. I'll be 58 this year and my love hasn't faded.
BarbB/Waynesburg PA
The Steelers games have become a religion to this individual just like attending church on Sundays is in my household. My thoughts are not to pray for a Steelers victory anymore but rather to pray for them to play well. I know the "Chief" (Art Rooney) is watching from above and Coach Cowher has dealt with adversity from his critics on not winning the big one. One thing is for sure the wind was not blowing in the RCA Dome during that missed late field goal attempt by the Colts kicker.
My huge banner on the front of my house will remain there until they lose. God Bless ya Steelers.
Mike, Brookville
We have a Steeler Christmas Tree with a Steeler train that goes around the tree. We light the tree during every Steeler game, and every time the Steelers score, my husband runs the train.
-Bill and DeAnn
My Mom and Dad went to the game last season when the Steelers ended the Patriots winning streak on Halloween and for some reason she wore a red shirt. Now every game from then on she has to wear a red shirt.
--Jeff, Mt. Pleasant
We all (5 of us) plus our dog wear Steeler shirts. I also have flannel Steeler pants, earrings, socks, and necklaces. We have 2 Steeler blankets that we cover up with while watching the games. I have a variety of Big Ben shirts. But the biggest thing is my 9-year old daughter, Courtney, sits on a bar stool in our game room and waves a Steeler troll in the air during the plays. It has worked very well so far... GO STEELERS!!!!!
Laurie McKinnis, Valencia, PA
Last year I always wore a Hines Ward shirt and hat, Steeler flannel pants and socks--we won every game except the one I didn't watch. This year I was more lax, owing to some difficulties. Sunday, I watched the game at my daughter's house and while I was trying on a new dress suit, Troy's interception was overthrown. My daughter yelled "Put your shirt back on, Mom!" I did--and things improved from there, as we all know. She's always found my enthusiasm amusing, but maybe...just maybe...she's beginning to believe! Joyce VanSickle
How can you be a Steeler fan and NOT have a corky little behavior on gameday?Here is mine:1. Sit on the the same location of the floor between my coffee table and couch with my legs crossed in the same position.......SWITCH if the plays aren't going our way!2. Make sure the opponents team colors are not the same color on my fingernails, BUT the same color on my toenails.......so I can STOMP on them!3. Use my dining room chairs as players on the field and arrange them as the plays change....a little trick I picked up from my dad.4. Do not touch or speak to my male roomate, a Dallas fan..............do you blame me?and last, but not least........5. Keep spreading the Steeler love all the way out here to the west coast!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Angie M., Reno, NV (Pittsburgh Native)
We (13 adults and a ton of kids) go to my brother in law's house for every playoff game. EVERYONE in the house is REQUIRED to wear the same Steelers garb they wore the previous week before entering the house. We also have to sit in the SAME seats every week!! Rick (the brother in law) puts up all his paraphenalia (Hats, towels, posters, big wooden sign, shirts from previous seasons and current, flags, you name it), and he buys something new for the collection every week during playoffs. My husband bought me a Hines Ward doll, and my own terrible towel, which I keep on hand RELIGIOUSLY during the games. I even talk to my Hines when things are going badly, and before each game! How's THAT for superstition??? ~Kelly and Brad Penn, Saxonburg, Pa.
We moved our TV from the family room to the living room for the holidays and I will not let my wife take down the Christmas decorations and move the TV until the Steelers lose. We also all wear the same clothes on Steeler game day. -- Ron
My superstition is to NEVER say that the Steelers have a game in the bag before the game is actually over. My step-father started celebrating in the 3rd quarter this past week and it almost back-fired on us. Here We Go Steelers!!!!
Kevin Ervin - Hutchinson, Pa
I always have my Steelers #36 jersey on game days. I always display my Terrible Towel over the couch, and even drink from the same Steelers beer mug. However the one thing that I do and all of my friends who are “truly” Steelers fans are invited to do is this… I have the privilege of being the proud owner of one of the 1976 Pittsburgh Steelers Iron City commemorative cans of beer (still full mind you). We all get together before kick off weekly and everyone gets a chance to rub the can for good luck to the Steelers. I feel the rubbing of the can brings out all the old players and puts them in the uniforms of the current ones to act as sprits of the game keeping them safe and helping them to make good decisions.
That’s what I do…
Tim Urbanski
Melbourne, Florida
Our Christmas tree has a section of Steeler ornaments on it and they have been winning since we had it up so we will not take it down. We also have a Steeler Santa and a light up Steeler tree that is still up. Nothing will be put away until after the Steelers win the Super Bowl. GO STEELERS!!!!!!Tracy, Harwick
I always were my steeler shorts, and my cut up steeler t-shirt.If for some reason the Steelers are loosing, I take one of our terrible towels and drape in over the corner of the right side of the television. This tends to bring them good luck....When Jeff Reed kicks an extra point or a field goal, I do his same motion with his arm, but I do it twice. He hasn't missed since I started doing this. When my husband has to work on Steeler game day, I tell everyone not to worry they are going to win and they do, they lost the games he was off. I will call my parents to make sure they are wearing the same thing and sitting in the same positions. If for some reason they start to lose, I will tell my dad to go outside and cut the grass... whether it is raining, sunny or snowing....#1 Steeler Girl
1. Sit on my Reclining Chair.
2. Always wear the same Steeler clothes. (T-Shirt, No. 36 Football Jersey, Sweat Shirt [if needed].
Display 'The Terrible Towel' in front of the T.V.- Roy F. Lauper
I always wear my Polamalu jersey on gameday. Since the win against the Chicago Bears, I have not washed it.However, I only wear it on gameday, so it is not completely soiled.I need help.Go Steelers!-Tim, Sherman Oaks, CA
While working out in the basement sunday morning at about 10 AM( a ritual on game day) I walked right eye first into the butt end of my weight training bar, knocking myself silly and cutting me (like a prize fighter) Knowing I had Steelers bandaides I applied one after getting first aid by my wife( after the bleeding stopped about 30 minutes later). It is 10 PM monday night and it is still applied, the people at work loved it. I also wear the same jeans Big ben Jersey with Steelers socks to all playoff games. I live in upstate new york and i am the only one on my block with a Steelers flag flying out front. I am proud to be a Steelers fan.-Anthony
I always put a steeler scarf on my dog Muss, he is so behaved with it on and when I took it off on Sunday as its a little long on him ,they reversed the call on Polamalu, so I put it back on, he will be wearing it on Sunday for sure the whole game.-Judy, South Fork, Pa.
Around playoff time my wife lets me bring my big "You're in Steeler Country" banner in from the garage and set up my Three Rivers seats in the family/formal room... I used to shower on Steeler Sundays with Steeler liquid soap, but being in Virginia, that soap is hard to find. Oh yeah, Black and Gold M&M's and Buffalo Chicken dip are served.-Paul, Gainesville, VA
My wife says I am crazy but I will let you decide. Every week we do the same routine . . .Get up early start making our gameday food (cheese fries, nachos, wings . . . ) I have to wear the same UNWASHED Pitt Panthers long sleeved sweatshirt under my UNWASHED Ben Roetglisberger Official jersey and same unwashed PJ Bottoms... I also have to sit in the same recliner and wear the same steeler hats . . . 2 at one time . . .she didn't believe me about the chair but here is an example from the DEFEAT of the Pony boys. My wife was sitting there just before the 2 minute warning when Indy got the ball back . . . they were down by 3 and I told her to move . . . that is when we sacked Manning on 4th down and got the ball on their 2. I thought the game was over so she sat back in the chair . . . just then Bettis fumbles and Indy recovered and I told her to move quickly . . . I sat down and Ben came out f nowhere t tackle the returner. I sat there the whole time and it is because of that seat that Indy missed the field goal . . . my wife said she will let me sit there from now on beside the point my wife dosen't even want to sit by me because she thinks I stink . . . but if you ask me it is the smell of VICTORY!!!!- Chuck
For two years I didn't watch the Steeler's b/c I thought me watching was causing them to lose. But I could attend games, If I was present at the game, they were guaranteed a win. So at the start of the season I watch a few games, and whether or not they win determines whether or not I watch the rest of the season.I wear my Roethlisberger Jersey with the same pants, same socks, every week; my son wears his Roethlisberger jersey, and my newborn wears his steeler's gear. I always sit on the floor and crack an I.C. Light at the kick off. And, finally, I will not leave my house to watch the game. I have to watch it here or they may lose, So If we make it to the Superbowl, I will not be attending any superbowl parties.- Kara
I have to have my beach towel out in my livingroom, my steeler gorilla has to be positioned just right on my couch. I have to have my two terrible towels by my side at all times. My steeler nerf football has to be handy for when I get upset of course. I have a necklace my daughter made me that i wear every Friday before the game to work along with my 2 sets of earrings, my lucky socks, my boxers and my steeler cap... I wasn't wearing my lucky steeler hat the day we played Cincinatti. When I realized it, the score was 10 - 0. I hurried and put the hat on, and low and behold... We Came Back!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you haven't done it all season, don't start now. Wait til next year.-Linda
I keep wearing the same clothes to work on Friday pink STEELER WARD shirt with a white turtleneck with colored jeans and on Sunday I wear my pink STEELER WARD shirt with a black turtleneck and blue jeans. During the game when the call looks bad for the STEELERS I would go down to my laundry room until I would hear my husband and kids cheering then I would go back up and everything was great again.-Janet
We don't have Steeler color day at work simply because we haven't done it all year and we think it's bad luck to start. So everyone else in the building is in their black and gold and while our hearts really are black and gold - we just can't wear it. Not THIS year anyway :)On game day...same thing. I haven't worn the jersey all year, I can't now.No phone calls. Our phone rang just before the Bus fumbled...we are sure that's what jinxed it. We're turning it off next week.And...we cannot wash the Terrible Towels. Even though the Fumble made me start to cry...and I used it to wipe the tears. Who knows. Maybe they were magic, Steeler tears.- Sharon, Jeannette
I wear My HINES WARD NFL shirt...that hasn't been washed ALL SEASON!!!......I sit alone in my kitchen and FREAK OUT and scream all by myself....cause my husband is in the living room.going NUTS!!! and I cant hear the TV.So I prefer to be alone.......-Mary
I wear my Steelers gear to school on mondays after games, never the Friday before, unless it is declared an official black and gold day in our school. If I wear it on a Friday, I fear that I will mess it all up, and I would DIE before i would even TRY it!I always have to sit on the same end of the couch or wherever im sitting, same position, same side, same angle, holding the same pillow and terrible towel in the same hand, and in the same arrangement. I was extremely particular after the beginning of Sunday's game considering we were doing so darn well!.... I stayed sitting on the couch with my legs crouched up under me/to the side. I only ever moved when there was a commercial or during halftime, or of course when i stood up after a great play to scream and twirl the towel. Afterwards, of course, I would sit back down in the exact same position, arrange the pillow and towel how it was, and sit on my legs how i had the whole game. Many times I got leg cramps and couldn't feel my right leg at one point, but I didn't dare move, I was too terrified that i would mess it up. During the second half, after halftime everyone came back and i sat in my same exact place and got situated.. my relatives moved around a bit, and of course we didn't do so well at the beginning of that second half. My little cousin tried to take my towel away from me at one point and I yelled at him.. I apologized later but he just didn't understand what was at stake here! Eventually I made my mom and aunt go back to where they! were sitting while my cousins started playing a game in the center of the floor during the 3rd qtr and i was flipping.. but they came back to watch towards the end so it was all good.Another thing is the way my friends will try to tick me off jokingly and tell me the Steelers are going to lose. Anytime they do that I keep on them until they 'take it back' if they don't 'take it back' i go insane. I don't know why, it just drives me up the wall.-Malia L, Indiana PA
I am only 17 and as young of an age as it is I have come to many superstitions throughout the years.1. I have a little Steelers rhino I take with me to every game and leave in the car I am in at the game. If i forget to take it they have lost. (didnt take it to New England, Cinci, or Jacksonville this year)2. I must wear my long yellow socks and steeler shorts with my Bettis jersey at every game whether it is snowing, raining, etc. If all three things are showing we have won every home game the past 3 years...if not we lost3. While we are on defense I must say "Let's go D! efense" the number of times of the down before they snap the ball. If it's 1st i say once if it's 4th i saw it four. Example in Indi game every time I didn't get it off they completed a pass which wasnt many and before the field goal kick I got it off in time.4. While on offense I must say "Let's go Pittsburgh" then "Let's go Steelers" and cross my arms before we say "hut" or we have a bad play.I am a huge Steeler fan and my friends love to pick on me, but in the end we need people like me to keep the great games close!!!-Nick, Latrobe
We usually start out the game in our regular seats and as we move around during the game, if they start to do well, everyone has to resume thier positions after the commercial. This past Sunday against Indianapolis, I was not home for most of the game and the steelers were doing great! As I ran into the door @ 3:15 I was greated by my sons and husband, literally kicking me out of the house!, Well I stayed and that last 6 minutes all I heard was I jinxed them, go back to work! They looked at me when Bettis fumbled and said"If they lose, its all your fault! THANK GOD! THEY WON!-The Vickers family, Liberty Borough
I just emailed my girlfriend about the Colts game and confided in her that I have worn the same ugly green sweat suit for the past 3 weeks. I also admitted that I do not wear make up or put on a bra. My husband wears his Randle El jersey and my daughter sports her Joey Porter jersey. We sit in the same seats each week and make a bowl of popcorn at half time! I never thought I was superstitious ... but I'll be darn if I will change anything next week! I have washed our "Steeler game" wear on the following Tuesday (after the game), and of course did so today! My daughter and friends all wear a Steeler jersey to school every Monday. She wore her lucky Randle El jersey yesterday. Thanks for the opportunity to share our silly superstitions.- Brenda, Oakland, MD
My husband makes sure that we only watch the game in the privacy of our own home. Just in case the Steelers lose, he can go crazy and not feel too bad about breaking things such as chairs and so on. Last week after the game, you could find him driving around the neighborhood waving a huge Steeler flag out the window while screaming. He also makes sure to wear the same Roethlisberger jersey every week, it has never been washed in about 2 years.-Jawnnette
When I think it's an easy win, I always wear my black Steelers t-shirt, my Steelers "Mardi Gras" beads since I'm also a Creole.When it's a crucial game, I always wear my Franco Harris jersey - we always win when I do.-Yvonne, Phoenix
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Then we want to hear from you!E-mail WTAE Channel 4 Action News at newsroom@thepittsburghchannel.com and tell us about all the weird ways that you try to influence the outcome of a game.Please include your first name and hometown and in your e-mails.
Here's what you're saying so far:
Here is how I watch Steeler games: I have Steelers lights and entire steeler villages that are all turned on. I burn candles in Steeler containers of course. I even had a XL Steeler slot machine that I light up. All of the main lights are off. I have a Steeler troll doll that I rub his hair when things are tense. Of course I have my terrible towel by my side and wear Steeler jewelry and jersey. I have a 4 ft Steeler blowup that I have out as well. I always feel that if the room is not just right it will somehow affect the outcome of the game. I have several cds of Steeler music that I play full blast when a score is made.- Karen - Orlando, Fla.
I always wear my Steeler earrings, underwear, socks, hair scrunchie and faithful Jerome Bettis jersey. If I'm going out to watch the game and its cold, I of course wear my Steeler coat. Then, I have to be holding my terrible towel, my Steeler Bear and my Snoopy stuffed animal who is dressed in a Steeler Uniform complete with the helmet. My dogs have a Steeler jersey and bandana. If I am home, I have my Steeler light string lit up near the TV. Everytime the Steelers have a good play or score a touchdown, not only do I waive the terrible towel, but have to kiss my Steeler Bear and Snoopy, and make everyone near me do the same or I think it will bring the Steelers bad luck. I also religiously rub the Steeler Bear's head during tense moments and he has to be watching the game at all times. Love the Steelers!!- Cathy - Yellow Springs, Ohio
I hand painted these awesome black & gold, splatter painted, rhinestoned Steeler denim jeans that I wore in 2006 to the Cincinatti Playoff Game, the Denver Playoff Game and on to the SUPERBOWL in Detroit when we painted the Seahawks (and the city of Detroit too) with a black and gold Steeler Victory. After the SuperBowl win I added Super Bowl XL and hand painted the Steelers Super Bowl Ring right on the jeans and filled with Swarovski crystals.I wore these Jeans to the Steeler Game this passed Sunday to remind the Seahawks of SB XL and it worked again, as we 'painted' the Seahawks once again!I've also created another pair of unique, hand painted, rhinestone studded, 75th Steeler Anniversary blue jeans twhich I have worn to each home game this year---and it appears they doing their thing -- and 'blinding' our opponents with the diamond Steeler Studded jeans.P.S. The Super Bowl jeans.....I'm afraid to wash them...for fear they will loose their 'magic'!- Melanie Patterson
I have a small stuffed Steeler teddy bear on my desk at work. All of my fellow Steeler fans have to rub Teddy's head for good luck before every game...he's going bald! - Chris (originally from Houston, PA)
First I never wear anything Steeler when watching on TV, (they lose if I do) but have to wear Steeler items when I'm at the game. At home watching I sit on my love seat, and cross my legs when they are on offense and keep my legs straight when they are on defense.- Ray Schamus
If it is a Sunday game, I get up, check the Steelers local media Web sites (thepittsburghchannel.com for one). I get all my Steelers clothes on, listen to the 10 a.m. Black and Gold show on 970 The Burgh via the Net. I then switch over to 93.5 WTPA at 11:00 and listen to the Pregame with the Steelers Roundtable.
I DO NOT watch ESPN, CBS or FOX pregame stuff. I make sure I have supper done by 1:00. I do not want to be distracted during the game. I have the radio on during the game, and turn the sound down. I hate the national talking heads. Tunch, Hilgrove and Wolfley are the guys. At half time I listen to the half time adjustments, and make wings for the second half. Then finish off the game, and listen to the post game. I REALLY MISS MYRON! Of course I have my Terrible Towel on top of the TV and drink my customary Iron City before the game! GO STEELERS!!- Ronn Roden in Marietta Pa., 212 miles east of Heinz Field in Lancaster County
WEAR SAME SHIRT, HAT, OTHER CLOTHES AS LONG AS THEY ARE WINNING!
WATCH GAME BY SELF IN KITCHEN, DON'T WANT BOTHERED BY OUTSIDE INTERFERENCE!
See Picture- Stephen S.
I LOVE THE STEELERS! My brother-in-law built a circular puzzle for me, glued it together and attached it to a black and gold piece of wood. It HAS to be below the TV during the game. I bow down to it, I kiss it, I pet it, whatever it takes to make the game go the Steelers way. There have been too many coincidences of losing the game when I watched it somewhere else and forgot my puzzle. I try not to leave it behind anymore.
See Picture- Lorri, Butler
This summer, we moved into a house where I could finally create my perfect "Steelers Get-A-Way" in the basement. I bought an HD projector, subscribed to HD TV and added various other expensive amnenities that would help me cheer the Steelers on to winning their second consecutive Super Bowl. The night of the Miami game, I was in heaven, watching the Steelers win on a 64" inch screen with a cold IC Light in my hand.But then my parents gave me my birthday present. They snuck into my house while I was at work and proceeded to paint one of the walls in a beautiful Black & Gold and hung up a handmade Steelers emblem ...
See PictureAt first I was overjoyed, what 30-year old would ask for more? But then bad things started happening down there. Steelers would fumble ball for no reason. Ben was throwing interceptions at key points in the game. The basement was no longer a joyful place.One ray of hope emerged during the KC game, but the thing was, I wasn't in the basement at the time. I was driving home from Erie after an exasperating weekend with the Parents-In-Law. I listened on the radio, but in the back of my mind I was thinking "Was this beatiful Steelers emblem that my mother worked hours on cursed?" She too is a die-hard Steeler fan and certainly wouldn't have taken the emblem to a church in Cleveland to be blessed by some Browns-Loving Priest, would she?So, I continued to watch the games down there. I watched in horror as the Steelers let Michael Vick run wild. I watched them lose to the lowly Raiders while allowing them less than 100 offensive yards. I watched them be manhandled by the hated Broncos. And foolsishly, I watched the first 30 minutes into Sunday's Saints game.At halftime, I gave up for the season. I hung my terrible towels over the emblem, only to be revealed again at the beginning of the 2007 training camp:
See PictureI retired back upstairs to my small 17-inch television to watch the remainder of the game. And they won.So now what? I have spent well over $1,000 on the basement setup solely to watch the Steelers. But that seems to be a lost investment. I will spend the rest of the season just like I did last year, squinting to see who it was that intercepted that ball and waiting for next year when I can again attempt to enjoy the games downstairs. However, I will be trying to find a Steeler-Loving Priest to lift the "Shanafelt Curse of The Emblem".- Michael Shanafelt, Hollidaysburg, Pa.
I was reading through your website and just had to add my own...I'm a very lucky Steelers fan. My parents have held season tickets for 30+ years. I went to college in Erie, and every time I was home during a home game, my mom would let me have her seat. The same thing happened after school, when I moved to Virginia Beach - every time I was home, I got the ticket. During all of this time (a span of about 7 years), none of the games that I went to were losses! I even came to two of the games that wretched year when we only won 3 games.I moved back to the 'Burgh last summer, and for my birthday, my friends bought me pre-season tickets to the Redskins game in D.C. I was excited - first away game, and my dad gave me a new Ben jersey. I wore it, and you know the outcome - we lost! Unbelievable!!I began to worry about the jersey, so I didn't wear it to the opener or the Patriots game. My sister wasn't going to the Patriots game, so she borrowed it to wear for tailgating. Somehow she managed to finangle a ticket and got into Heinz Field right around half time. Don't know how much you remember of the game, but we were ahead until then. And we wound up losing...So, no more Ben jersey. I was lucky enough to get tickets for every home game last year, and we won the Super Bowl. I got season tickets this year and have full intentions of the team continuing the trend!!- Sarah Crawshaw, North Side, Pittsburgh
I moved away from Pittsburgh in 1974 when I joined the Air Force. I’ve remained an avid Steeler fan. I do push-ups during their games because I’ve learned the more push-ups I do, the better the Steelers do. I did 600 push-ups during their AFC Championship victory over the Broncos and I did 800 during the Super Bowl. See, it works!- Bob in Albuquerque
I'm a child of the '60s, having seen the Pirates win the 1960 World Series. I use a "green weanie" (old Pirates' whammy to jinx the opposing team when they try field goals, etc. I no longer have my original plastic one, so I use my green rubber Heinz, pickle-shaped key chain - kinda shaped like a weanie. And it works. That's why Vanderjagt missed that field goal in the playoffs.- Spyboots, now displaced Yinzer, originally from South Side Pittsburgh
Hello & Greetings from Palm Desert, CA...The winter golf home of QB Ben Roethlisberger...As for me, I always wear my Steelers gear, but if they get in a tight spot, I flip my Steelers cap into rally mode by either turning it backwards.The Steelers have a dedicated legion of fans here in the Southern California desert & we look forward to seeing the fellas defend their title."Here we go!!!" How about we make it "6 in 2006" Go Steelers!!!Frank Torok
I moved to Alaska back in 1963 and have always been a avid Steelers Fan. We don't take our Christmas tree down until the Steelers loose or win the Super Bowl .I think this year is a new record.
Ron Sturgeon Anchorage Alaska
OK, this was too fun not to reply to. I’m so glad there are people as crazy as us… We’re working hard to keep the Steelers spirit alive and healthy on the “other coast”. Our superstitions are as follows…
1.Must wear Steelers shirt…and it must touch your skin somewhere. Meaning you’re not allowed to wear another shirt under it, unless the Steelers shirt touches you.
2.Must make homemade Primanti’s sandwiches at halftime. Being that we’re in California, we’ve had to convince people that this is completely customary and should not be debated. Those not willing to participate are banished.
3.MUST jump around like an idiot and dance with the dogs after big plays. Especially those involving wild tackles by Polamalu. Whipping out ridiculous 1980’s style cheerleading moves or football dances is highly encouraged.
4.During the playoffs, NEVER assume a win or dare to incorporate the Steelers name with the following weeks game. Bragging is an obvious NO-NO! Especially to other teams fans, because it would affect the Steelers pride and integrity. Oh and never engage in other team bashing! Have to follow the lead of our coach and players…classy-est team in the NFL!
5.Wear the same Steelers shirt the day after the game. Doesn’t matter where…bed, work, gym, whatever.
Yes, we realize we’re nuts…but whatever!!! I’m convinced it’s working!!
Laura, Lake Tahoe, CA
Oh and a little “PS”… My husband has been so amazed by the Steelers and the Pittsburgh fans over the last 9 years that he follows the traditions. I think he originally did it to humor me, but is now a believer. He grew up in Seattle (oy-vey)! This might have lead us to marriage counseling and intervention, but thankfully he’s 100% black and gold these days.
My friend Johna is the queen of Steeler Superstitions! We both live in Las Vegas now, but she is from Latrobe and I am from Harrison City(near Jeannette/greensburg). Most of her life revolves around her superstitions!On Game days, She wears the same steeler PJ's, no matter what time the game is- and they do not get washed when we are winning! She has her 8 Steeler earrings she only wears during games, she has specific times she wil shower, do her makeup and wear her hair too on game days. She also belives that she has a "jersey curse" so she cannot wear or own a current players jersey. I personally must shower before the game and let my hair dair dry and can't wear a pony tail until we score. I had to stop using my Steeler scrunchie in my hair because i accidentally wore the home one on an away game and that just messed everything up! We all have to wear the same things we wore the week before. We each have our own assigned seat during the game... Even my 7 year old daughter Kayla is consious of the "mojo." THe first half of the season she wore her cheer leader outfit, but after the losing spell she now wears her Ben jersey every game and worries about what socks she has to wear! We also believe that the power also lies within the Cheeseball! Every game we've won i've made my famous cheeseball! It will be the cheeseball that wins the superbowl for us!And, even though the list goes on and on and on... after each playoff game we have toasted our win with campagne in black flutes with gold ribbons tied around them!HERE WE GO STEELERS!Erica
Las Vegas, NV
My family and I sadly do not live in the burgh anymore. We are still diehard Steeler fans living in of all places Eagles territory.We wear the same clothing for each game. We each have a game day jersey and if we win, it does not get washed until we lose. Also, my 16 year old daughter is quite the little brat. She wore a friend's colts sweat shirt the day we played them and we won. So I bought her a bronco t-shirt and paid her five dollars to wear it all day last Sunday. I have already purchased her a Seahawk item to wear.Also in honor of Troy, no one is allowed to get a hair cut until after the super bowl.We here in Newtown PA are diehard Steeler fans and are mad at Rendell for ignoring us all year then reaping the rewards of the super bowl. If anyone should go to this game, it should be us not him. He does a post game show for the Eagles every week. He acted like the Steelers were from Alaska last year when we beat them.There are Steeler fans everywhere!!! HERE WE GO STEELERS, HERE WE GO!!!Kathleen F. Reidy
I have a Ward jersey I DO NOT wash when we win. Last season... well you know how long it went without a washing. My Mom sprayed me with Febreze for the playoff game and we lost. This year NO FEBREZE! The funk will live on! GO STEELERS!!!
Lisa T.
New Castle, PA
I was watching last night when you were going over the superstitions, etc. Well....I still have my Christmas tree up, last year I took it down the day before the playoff they lost....my grandson told me it would be bad luck so it's still up this year, also my daughterinlaw has hers up too and barely alive...told her not to take it down. Go Steelers
Judy B.
Every gameday we have a meal consisting of the food from the opponents region. 2 weeks ago it was Cincinnati Chili, last week fried pork tenderloin sandwiches and this week with a three o'clock kickoff a Sunday brunch featuring Denver omelets sounds perfect.In two weeks we'll either be eating Carolina barbeque, or a Seattle seafood feast.Moe The Dog, Greensburg
When the Steelers win and I am wearing a certain shirt or outfit then I wear the same thing until they lose and that is even underwear, usually black, socks and pants. Also I wear the Terrible Towels in my belt loops the same way. I also have a my favorite Steeler paraphernalia that I have had for years. I am a 56 year old single woman who has been a diehard fan for many years and just as goofy as the rest.- Michele, Fairmont, W.Va.
My Steelers superstition is that I cannot wear my Steeler jersey to church on Sundays. I feel that If I wear it, my team will lose!- Melissa, New Castle
I have a Myron Cope Bobble Head Doll that I have on display in my living room along with lots of other Steeler decorations (that by the way stay up all year long). Before each game I take the doll & rub its cute little bald head & ask Myron to bring us luck....- Denise, Markleton, Pa.
Each game day we grill venison outside, everyone sits in the same seat in our steeler room. We wear Terrible Towels on our heads and shoulders.
Eric "Scott" Fitzpatrick from Butler PA
OUT STEELER TRADITION GOES BACK TO THE 70'S AND THE SUPER STEELERS. WE LEAVE OUR CHRISTMAS TREE UP EVERY YEAR UNTIL THE SEASON IS OVER FOR THE BLACK & GOLD. WE HAD SOME REAL "CHARLIE BROWN'ISH" LOOKING CHRSITMAS TREES BACK THEN. NOW THAT OUR FAMILY HAS GROWN AND MOVED AWAY, YOU CAN FIND CRISTMAS TREES STILL UP IN GREENSBURG; CLEARWATER,FL AND LAUREL , MD. DAVE, PHILIPPI, WV.
My husband informed me that we will lose if we don't fix nachos for the games...the games we lost this year..we did not make nachos....hmmm ......then last week when we made nachos and I told him he needs to eat nachos the second half of the game because he quit eating and look what happened to "My Beloved Bus!!!" BUT WE WON!!!!
We also have to wear our jerseys every game...Bettis, Roethlisberger, Polomalu, and Parker!!!! Go Steelers!!
The Critchlows
My oldest son started his way in the world the day after the last time the Steelers won a superbowl. His mother went into labor on Monday the 21st and he was born in Pittsburgh on the 22nd Jan 1980. It will be 26 years on Sunday and it’s about time for another superbowl. I now live in Switzerland and thanks to the “Armed Forces Network” I will be able to watch the game on Sunday. Good luck to ya Steelers and Happy Birthday Frank.
Frank J. Schofield
At the beginning of last year, I accidently wore my black underwear inside out and we won. So the next week, I wore my black underwear inside out and we won. I have been wearing my black underwear inside out for two years now. And to top it off, my husband washed the underwear in the white wash and so they were bleached, but the bleached part came out gold. So now I wear my gold and black underwear inside out.
Leann Thornton, Wheeling, WV
Our family talks to the Ben Roethlisberger and Hines Ward Fat Heads our 2 boys got for Christmas, every morning and night asking them to win the game! Also, the children have been having steeler day at school and since they have have been having steeler day- we have won every single game!
The Kruel Family Ligonier, Pennsylvania
Every sunday we have worn what we call our "uniforms", same steelers sweatshirts, jeans, shoes, etc.,etc. Nothing gets moved from anywhere it's been placed during the game. When it's time to go to the you know where, you have to walk the same route to where you are going. and return the same route. Everyone has their designated seats, never, never change seats. And last not least libations keep coming during the game, whether it be sipped or gulped, you have to have a libation. And if the momentum seems to swing to the opposition we all turn our sweatshirts inside out to rally our BELOVED STEELERS!!!! LOVE YA' BLACK N' GOLD
D. CARPELLOTTI
My mother-in-law gave me this small handmade STEELER DOLL about 5 years ago. I call it my WHAMMY DOLL. What I do is when the opposing team has the ball I take my STEELER WHAMMY DOLL AND SHAKE IT AT THE OPPOSING TEAM AND SAY WHAMMY WHAMMY WHAMMY. (UNTIL THE PLAY IS DONE) In this case on Sunday it will be WHAMMY WHAMMY WHAMMY DENVER.
Theresa, Pittsburgh
About an hour and a half before the Bears' game this season I ate 4 chili dogs with cheese and two chili cheeseburgers - only from Coney Island restuarant - and a twelve pack of IC light. I have been doing this an hour and a half before every game since and they have not lost.
Steve, New Castle, PA
i broke my steeler tradtion this past weekend i always go to my favorite sports bar this past weekend i stayed home with my 4 month old son and we won him with his ward jersey me and my unwashed ben jersey so this weekend we will once agian be watchin the game together god willing we will be ready for super bowl 40. Rich and Dezmin in Bradenton fl
My boyfriend and I sit in the same spots and wear the same clothes for the games. I have earrings, but they have been bad luck everytime I wear them, so needless to say, I haven't worn them all season. My son has to wave the terrible towel throughout the game to give our steelers good luck. My dad thinks we're crazy, but we don't care. GO STEELERS!!!
I always wear my Hines Ward jersey every game. And I do not washed it until they lose a game! So I have not washed it in 6 weeks. I don't want to wash the luckiness out of it. I won't be washing it until after the SuperBowl and get ready for next year! Go Steelers!!!!
Missi Otey, McKees Rocks, PA and Sarah-Greensburg
I wear my Steeler sweat suit (1995 AFC Champs!) and Steeler earrings, socks and necklace. I go down to the family room 30 minutes before the game, turn on the big screen, get my beer and snacks and sit down. Everyone in my family knows not to disturb me or try to engage me in conversation. I have one interest - THE GAME. No Negative talk, no matter what the score is!
My husband likes to armchair quarterback, so he watches the game upstairs or he has to keep quiet.
My dog gets worked up when I scream and run across the floor, whether to cheer or complain about a bad call (plenty of that going on). I have had a love affair with Steeler football since I was 15 years old. I'll be 58 this year and my love hasn't faded.
BarbB/Waynesburg PA
The Steelers games have become a religion to this individual just like attending church on Sundays is in my household. My thoughts are not to pray for a Steelers victory anymore but rather to pray for them to play well. I know the "Chief" (Art Rooney) is watching from above and Coach Cowher has dealt with adversity from his critics on not winning the big one. One thing is for sure the wind was not blowing in the RCA Dome during that missed late field goal attempt by the Colts kicker.
My huge banner on the front of my house will remain there until they lose. God Bless ya Steelers.
Mike, Brookville
We have a Steeler Christmas Tree with a Steeler train that goes around the tree. We light the tree during every Steeler game, and every time the Steelers score, my husband runs the train.
-Bill and DeAnn
My Mom and Dad went to the game last season when the Steelers ended the Patriots winning streak on Halloween and for some reason she wore a red shirt. Now every game from then on she has to wear a red shirt.
--Jeff, Mt. Pleasant
We all (5 of us) plus our dog wear Steeler shirts. I also have flannel Steeler pants, earrings, socks, and necklaces. We have 2 Steeler blankets that we cover up with while watching the games. I have a variety of Big Ben shirts. But the biggest thing is my 9-year old daughter, Courtney, sits on a bar stool in our game room and waves a Steeler troll in the air during the plays. It has worked very well so far... GO STEELERS!!!!!
Laurie McKinnis, Valencia, PA
Last year I always wore a Hines Ward shirt and hat, Steeler flannel pants and socks--we won every game except the one I didn't watch. This year I was more lax, owing to some difficulties. Sunday, I watched the game at my daughter's house and while I was trying on a new dress suit, Troy's interception was overthrown. My daughter yelled "Put your shirt back on, Mom!" I did--and things improved from there, as we all know. She's always found my enthusiasm amusing, but maybe...just maybe...she's beginning to believe! Joyce VanSickle
How can you be a Steeler fan and NOT have a corky little behavior on gameday?Here is mine:1. Sit on the the same location of the floor between my coffee table and couch with my legs crossed in the same position.......SWITCH if the plays aren't going our way!2. Make sure the opponents team colors are not the same color on my fingernails, BUT the same color on my toenails.......so I can STOMP on them!3. Use my dining room chairs as players on the field and arrange them as the plays change....a little trick I picked up from my dad.4. Do not touch or speak to my male roomate, a Dallas fan..............do you blame me?and last, but not least........5. Keep spreading the Steeler love all the way out here to the west coast!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - Angie M., Reno, NV (Pittsburgh Native)
We (13 adults and a ton of kids) go to my brother in law's house for every playoff game. EVERYONE in the house is REQUIRED to wear the same Steelers garb they wore the previous week before entering the house. We also have to sit in the SAME seats every week!! Rick (the brother in law) puts up all his paraphenalia (Hats, towels, posters, big wooden sign, shirts from previous seasons and current, flags, you name it), and he buys something new for the collection every week during playoffs. My husband bought me a Hines Ward doll, and my own terrible towel, which I keep on hand RELIGIOUSLY during the games. I even talk to my Hines when things are going badly, and before each game! How's THAT for superstition??? ~Kelly and Brad Penn, Saxonburg, Pa.
We moved our TV from the family room to the living room for the holidays and I will not let my wife take down the Christmas decorations and move the TV until the Steelers lose. We also all wear the same clothes on Steeler game day. -- Ron
My superstition is to NEVER say that the Steelers have a game in the bag before the game is actually over. My step-father started celebrating in the 3rd quarter this past week and it almost back-fired on us. Here We Go Steelers!!!!
Kevin Ervin - Hutchinson, Pa
I always have my Steelers #36 jersey on game days. I always display my Terrible Towel over the couch, and even drink from the same Steelers beer mug. However the one thing that I do and all of my friends who are “truly” Steelers fans are invited to do is this… I have the privilege of being the proud owner of one of the 1976 Pittsburgh Steelers Iron City commemorative cans of beer (still full mind you). We all get together before kick off weekly and everyone gets a chance to rub the can for good luck to the Steelers. I feel the rubbing of the can brings out all the old players and puts them in the uniforms of the current ones to act as sprits of the game keeping them safe and helping them to make good decisions.
That’s what I do…
Tim Urbanski
Melbourne, Florida
Our Christmas tree has a section of Steeler ornaments on it and they have been winning since we had it up so we will not take it down. We also have a Steeler Santa and a light up Steeler tree that is still up. Nothing will be put away until after the Steelers win the Super Bowl. GO STEELERS!!!!!!Tracy, Harwick
I always were my steeler shorts, and my cut up steeler t-shirt.If for some reason the Steelers are loosing, I take one of our terrible towels and drape in over the corner of the right side of the television. This tends to bring them good luck....When Jeff Reed kicks an extra point or a field goal, I do his same motion with his arm, but I do it twice. He hasn't missed since I started doing this. When my husband has to work on Steeler game day, I tell everyone not to worry they are going to win and they do, they lost the games he was off. I will call my parents to make sure they are wearing the same thing and sitting in the same positions. If for some reason they start to lose, I will tell my dad to go outside and cut the grass... whether it is raining, sunny or snowing....#1 Steeler Girl
1. Sit on my Reclining Chair.
2. Always wear the same Steeler clothes. (T-Shirt, No. 36 Football Jersey, Sweat Shirt [if needed].
Display 'The Terrible Towel' in front of the T.V.- Roy F. Lauper
I always wear my Polamalu jersey on gameday. Since the win against the Chicago Bears, I have not washed it.However, I only wear it on gameday, so it is not completely soiled.I need help.Go Steelers!-Tim, Sherman Oaks, CA
While working out in the basement sunday morning at about 10 AM( a ritual on game day) I walked right eye first into the butt end of my weight training bar, knocking myself silly and cutting me (like a prize fighter) Knowing I had Steelers bandaides I applied one after getting first aid by my wife( after the bleeding stopped about 30 minutes later). It is 10 PM monday night and it is still applied, the people at work loved it. I also wear the same jeans Big ben Jersey with Steelers socks to all playoff games. I live in upstate new york and i am the only one on my block with a Steelers flag flying out front. I am proud to be a Steelers fan.-Anthony
I always put a steeler scarf on my dog Muss, he is so behaved with it on and when I took it off on Sunday as its a little long on him ,they reversed the call on Polamalu, so I put it back on, he will be wearing it on Sunday for sure the whole game.-Judy, South Fork, Pa.
Around playoff time my wife lets me bring my big "You're in Steeler Country" banner in from the garage and set up my Three Rivers seats in the family/formal room... I used to shower on Steeler Sundays with Steeler liquid soap, but being in Virginia, that soap is hard to find. Oh yeah, Black and Gold M&M's and Buffalo Chicken dip are served.-Paul, Gainesville, VA
My wife says I am crazy but I will let you decide. Every week we do the same routine . . .Get up early start making our gameday food (cheese fries, nachos, wings . . . ) I have to wear the same UNWASHED Pitt Panthers long sleeved sweatshirt under my UNWASHED Ben Roetglisberger Official jersey and same unwashed PJ Bottoms... I also have to sit in the same recliner and wear the same steeler hats . . . 2 at one time . . .she didn't believe me about the chair but here is an example from the DEFEAT of the Pony boys. My wife was sitting there just before the 2 minute warning when Indy got the ball back . . . they were down by 3 and I told her to move . . . that is when we sacked Manning on 4th down and got the ball on their 2. I thought the game was over so she sat back in the chair . . . just then Bettis fumbles and Indy recovered and I told her to move quickly . . . I sat down and Ben came out f nowhere t tackle the returner. I sat there the whole time and it is because of that seat that Indy missed the field goal . . . my wife said she will let me sit there from now on beside the point my wife dosen't even want to sit by me because she thinks I stink . . . but if you ask me it is the smell of VICTORY!!!!- Chuck
For two years I didn't watch the Steeler's b/c I thought me watching was causing them to lose. But I could attend games, If I was present at the game, they were guaranteed a win. So at the start of the season I watch a few games, and whether or not they win determines whether or not I watch the rest of the season.I wear my Roethlisberger Jersey with the same pants, same socks, every week; my son wears his Roethlisberger jersey, and my newborn wears his steeler's gear. I always sit on the floor and crack an I.C. Light at the kick off. And, finally, I will not leave my house to watch the game. I have to watch it here or they may lose, So If we make it to the Superbowl, I will not be attending any superbowl parties.- Kara
I have to have my beach towel out in my livingroom, my steeler gorilla has to be positioned just right on my couch. I have to have my two terrible towels by my side at all times. My steeler nerf football has to be handy for when I get upset of course. I have a necklace my daughter made me that i wear every Friday before the game to work along with my 2 sets of earrings, my lucky socks, my boxers and my steeler cap... I wasn't wearing my lucky steeler hat the day we played Cincinatti. When I realized it, the score was 10 - 0. I hurried and put the hat on, and low and behold... We Came Back!!!!!!!!!!!!! If you haven't done it all season, don't start now. Wait til next year.-Linda
I keep wearing the same clothes to work on Friday pink STEELER WARD shirt with a white turtleneck with colored jeans and on Sunday I wear my pink STEELER WARD shirt with a black turtleneck and blue jeans. During the game when the call looks bad for the STEELERS I would go down to my laundry room until I would hear my husband and kids cheering then I would go back up and everything was great again.-Janet
We don't have Steeler color day at work simply because we haven't done it all year and we think it's bad luck to start. So everyone else in the building is in their black and gold and while our hearts really are black and gold - we just can't wear it. Not THIS year anyway :)On game day...same thing. I haven't worn the jersey all year, I can't now.No phone calls. Our phone rang just before the Bus fumbled...we are sure that's what jinxed it. We're turning it off next week.And...we cannot wash the Terrible Towels. Even though the Fumble made me start to cry...and I used it to wipe the tears. Who knows. Maybe they were magic, Steeler tears.- Sharon, Jeannette
I wear My HINES WARD NFL shirt...that hasn't been washed ALL SEASON!!!......I sit alone in my kitchen and FREAK OUT and scream all by myself....cause my husband is in the living room.going NUTS!!! and I cant hear the TV.So I prefer to be alone.......-Mary
I wear my Steelers gear to school on mondays after games, never the Friday before, unless it is declared an official black and gold day in our school. If I wear it on a Friday, I fear that I will mess it all up, and I would DIE before i would even TRY it!I always have to sit on the same end of the couch or wherever im sitting, same position, same side, same angle, holding the same pillow and terrible towel in the same hand, and in the same arrangement. I was extremely particular after the beginning of Sunday's game considering we were doing so darn well!.... I stayed sitting on the couch with my legs crouched up under me/to the side. I only ever moved when there was a commercial or during halftime, or of course when i stood up after a great play to scream and twirl the towel. Afterwards, of course, I would sit back down in the exact same position, arrange the pillow and towel how it was, and sit on my legs how i had the whole game. Many times I got leg cramps and couldn't feel my right leg at one point, but I didn't dare move, I was too terrified that i would mess it up. During the second half, after halftime everyone came back and i sat in my same exact place and got situated.. my relatives moved around a bit, and of course we didn't do so well at the beginning of that second half. My little cousin tried to take my towel away from me at one point and I yelled at him.. I apologized later but he just didn't understand what was at stake here! Eventually I made my mom and aunt go back to where they! were sitting while my cousins started playing a game in the center of the floor during the 3rd qtr and i was flipping.. but they came back to watch towards the end so it was all good.Another thing is the way my friends will try to tick me off jokingly and tell me the Steelers are going to lose. Anytime they do that I keep on them until they 'take it back' if they don't 'take it back' i go insane. I don't know why, it just drives me up the wall.-Malia L, Indiana PA
I am only 17 and as young of an age as it is I have come to many superstitions throughout the years.1. I have a little Steelers rhino I take with me to every game and leave in the car I am in at the game. If i forget to take it they have lost. (didnt take it to New England, Cinci, or Jacksonville this year)2. I must wear my long yellow socks and steeler shorts with my Bettis jersey at every game whether it is snowing, raining, etc. If all three things are showing we have won every home game the past 3 years...if not we lost3. While we are on defense I must say "Let's go D! efense" the number of times of the down before they snap the ball. If it's 1st i say once if it's 4th i saw it four. Example in Indi game every time I didn't get it off they completed a pass which wasnt many and before the field goal kick I got it off in time.4. While on offense I must say "Let's go Pittsburgh" then "Let's go Steelers" and cross my arms before we say "hut" or we have a bad play.I am a huge Steeler fan and my friends love to pick on me, but in the end we need people like me to keep the great games close!!!-Nick, Latrobe
We usually start out the game in our regular seats and as we move around during the game, if they start to do well, everyone has to resume thier positions after the commercial. This past Sunday against Indianapolis, I was not home for most of the game and the steelers were doing great! As I ran into the door @ 3:15 I was greated by my sons and husband, literally kicking me out of the house!, Well I stayed and that last 6 minutes all I heard was I jinxed them, go back to work! They looked at me when Bettis fumbled and said"If they lose, its all your fault! THANK GOD! THEY WON!-The Vickers family, Liberty Borough
I just emailed my girlfriend about the Colts game and confided in her that I have worn the same ugly green sweat suit for the past 3 weeks. I also admitted that I do not wear make up or put on a bra. My husband wears his Randle El jersey and my daughter sports her Joey Porter jersey. We sit in the same seats each week and make a bowl of popcorn at half time! I never thought I was superstitious ... but I'll be darn if I will change anything next week! I have washed our "Steeler game" wear on the following Tuesday (after the game), and of course did so today! My daughter and friends all wear a Steeler jersey to school every Monday. She wore her lucky Randle El jersey yesterday. Thanks for the opportunity to share our silly superstitions.- Brenda, Oakland, MD
My husband makes sure that we only watch the game in the privacy of our own home. Just in case the Steelers lose, he can go crazy and not feel too bad about breaking things such as chairs and so on. Last week after the game, you could find him driving around the neighborhood waving a huge Steeler flag out the window while screaming. He also makes sure to wear the same Roethlisberger jersey every week, it has never been washed in about 2 years.-Jawnnette
When I think it's an easy win, I always wear my black Steelers t-shirt, my Steelers "Mardi Gras" beads since I'm also a Creole.When it's a crucial game, I always wear my Franco Harris jersey - we always win when I do.-Yvonne, Phoenix
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