Why do American pro baseball and football players pat each other on the buttocks?

Question

And is it done in any other sports? (I mostly watch soccer and I don't think I ever saw it happen in a game) Or women sports?

Answer 1

I have often wondered why the one

being patted, doesn't object.

Answer 2

because they secretly love each other!

Answer 3

Its more appropriate then sniffing it.

Answer 4

Because we don't get spanked enough privately...

Answer 5

to soften the area that they wish to perform the s*x act on latter on

Answer 6

Great question!  Reggie Rivers (a former Denver Broncos fullback) brought this up once in a talk I was at.  He said it's a tradition in football, and that it 'just feels good.'  According to him it's a way for football players and coaches to reassure each other that everything is okay, like a pat on the back, and that being in football he got used to it being used the same way.  He then went on to tell us about a game where he missed two touchdown passes in a row, and knew he'd screwed up when no one patted his butt as he was returning to the bench.  He had us rolling with laughter, but I know he was being serious, too.  Now, it's just part of the sport and it's accepted and expected.  

P.S.  They did a funny take on this in a "Friends" episode, where Chandler gets a job where the boss does this.  Pretty soon it's part of the culture, and although Chandler thought it was weird, he finds out at the end that he'd rather do it and be accepted.  Humans are funny things!

Answer 7

Personally it began in high school gym class. The teacfher didn't remember our names so he swatted us to move when our turn came. This was done nearly everywhere. Perhaps it is a hold over from that. Also, hitting on the shoulders or helmet doesn't make actual contact due to the pads and helmet. But truthfully, I can't quote any source other than my own experience.