pre-shot routine habits

[Bustah360]

Ok, this has been bugging me for a while now. Does anyone know why shooters tend to lick their back hand before getting down on the shot? It reminds me of what pitchers do before getting down before winding up the pitch. I've a handful of pros do this as well. Anyone have any ideas or input on this?

 

[Pushout]

Ok, this has been bugging me for a while now. Does anyone know why shooters tend to lick their back hand before getting down on the shot? It reminds me of what pitchers do before getting down before winding up the pitch. I've a handful of pros do this as well. Anyone have any ideas or input on this?

What pros? I've never seen this and I've been around pool for a good many years.

 

[Bustah360]

What pros? I've never seen this and I've been around pool for a good many years.

Well for starters, I've seen Johnny Archer do it. He has a pretty in depth pre-shot routine when getting ready for the break. One thing he seems to really keep track of where his back hand is, once in a blue gives his fingers a quick lick when grabbing the cue. Is this for that traction of your fingers getting dried grasping the finish of your cue or wrap? I know for a fact Ginky does this as well. I just never asked him. Us pool players have many habits and rituals. I'm just really curious about this one.

 

[blah blah]

Yet another reason never to shake hands with a poolplayer.