Toews

I don't think it's narcissistic at all. Some people are just superstitious and they're that way for a variety of reasons. Lots of athletes have superstitions and I believe it's more to do with their own comfort and self-confidence than anything. Playing baseball, I couldn't step in to the box for a pitch without licking my finger tips on my index and middle fingers on my left hand. Felt weird if I didn't.

Nothin' wrong with superstition. 

I didn't mean to be overly critical. I do get that athletes have their rituals and if it gives them comfort and confidence all the more power to them. 

I just have a problem when people force their superstitions on others. Like you aren't supposed to mention the word shutout or no-hitter as there is sense you will "jinx" the moment.

I guess I didn't really have a problem with such stuff when I used to actively participate in it but eventually I just lost faith in all this. Now when I am watching a game with friends I am almost tempted to yell shutout just to annoy them lol. 

I can see how it would seem a little weird from an objective point of view, but those superstitions (like no mentioning a shutout/no-hitter) have become entrenched in the cultures of their respective sports and so those who are fans of the sports tend to get into it as well- especially fans who played the sport. As you mentioned I think a person's belief in those superstitions may fade over time as well, even more so if they're removed from the sport. As a fan I have no problem with mentioning the word shutout (not in a GDT for fear of being roasted though) but if I were a player on the team I definitely wouldn't mention it.