Why is the word clutch used to describe a timely sports performance?

Master_Algie

A "clutch" athlete is one who performs well in pivotal or high pressure situations, or the quality of doing so. This term is likely derivated from the usage of "clutch" meaning to seize or to snatch. A clutch athlete seizes opportunities, and "clutch" in its verb form could also refer to a player catching a ball suddenly or unexpectedly. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clutch_(sports) http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entry/seize;_ylt=AnAfCOPdoCYW2F11eFBkR5.sgMMF Nov 07 06, 12:36 PM

elburcher

From the tome that is the OED clutch, v.1 6. intr. To make a clutch at, to make an eager effort to seize. 1831 CARLYLE Sart. Res. I. viii, How we clutch at shadows. 1860 FROUDE Hist. Eng. VI. xxx. 32 He [Sussex] clutched at the canopy under which she was sitting, and tore it down. 1868 E. EDWARDS Raleigh I. xxv. 639 As a drowning man clutches at the floating straws. Nov 07 06, 2:12 PM

lanfranco

This question was asked and answered just the other day -- #72020. Please check to see whether your question has been recently asked before you post it. Nov 07 06, 7:23 PM