Hockey is notorious for superstitions, but faith plays an even bigger part for Avs forward

Some players have a game-day ritual of taping their stick the same way — every way. Others don't change their route to the rink when they're on a winning streak. But for Colorado Avalanche forward Ross Colton, who said he is somewhat superstitious, it's about appreciating what God has given him. 

"My parents raised me in the Catholic Church. I try and do my best to go to church all the time. My parents brought me up that way," the 27-year-old said. "I thank God every night for everything he's kind of given me. It's the way I was brought up."

Professional athletes are human beings just like the rest of us and have their own opinions and beliefs. But not all need to voice theirs. Colton just goes about practising his as part of his daily life. 

The Robbinsville, N.J., native wears a cross around his neck and said he makes the sign of the cross before he gets on the ice every game. He said it's part of knowing someone's giving him that blessing when he plays. 

"I don't like to overly speak out or do anything like that crazy about it," he said. "I just think if someone's watching over me every game, that helps."

Colton, a fourth-round pick in 2016, spent his first three seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning before getting traded to Colorado for a second-round pick in June. He signed a four-year deal with the Avalanche a few weeks after.

Having won a Stanley Cup in 2021 and then reaching the final in 2022 (where the Lightning lost to the Avalanche), it's obvious that he's had a blessed career so far. Hopefully, with God on his side, that good fortune will continue for the Avalanche.