Jets fans rely on superstitions, rituals

For fans, whatever it takes

Some Long Island Jets fans won't just sit and watch tonight's game. They will be part of it, at least in their own minds, through superstitions and rituals that they hope will influence the outcome. Some examples:

Kick Dad Out of the Living Room

This started this season when Max Baltzer's dad left their living room to get coffee and the Jets scored while he was away.

"Now, my mom makes my dad stay in the basement to watch the games," said Baltzer, 19, of New Hyde Park, who also never lets his Jets jersey touch the floor.

The Magic Towel

Vincent Riccardo, 20, of New Hyde Park has held on to a Jets towel from last year's rally in Times Square.

"I've kept it on my dresser, and sometimes I lay it out on the table next to the television during games," said Riccardo, digging the towel out of his pocket and carefully unfolding it.

Shout to the Heavens

Mike Frumento, 36, of Lynbrook, said his ritual is to go to church and pray.

"I go to Our Lady of Peace, and our priest calls all the kids up to the altar and has them cheer the Jets scream before they go to Sunday school. It makes everybody happy. You can believe in the rituals, but as long as everyone believes in the team, then the Jets will win."