Never Stop Skating
Moving to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan has been hard for eleven-year-old, Jay Noble. At his new school, he is faced with the struggles of being the new kid and being picked on by two bullies: a boy named Brendan and a teacher named Miss Wallace. But everything changes once Jay learns to skate. He discovers that he is a remarkably fast skater, and this sends him on a journey to play hockey. With the help of a new friend, his hard work, and his natural hockey talent, Jay starts to rise above the bullying. But the question is, will this all be enough to lead his Saskatoon Renegades team to a Provincial Championship?
The Good Old Hockey Game
Doug Henderson, a young hockey player from a small town in Ontario, has always dreamed of reaching the pinnacle of the sport-the Stanley Cup. From the frozen ponds of his childhood to the icy arenas of the NHL, Doug's journey is one of grit, determination, and unrelenting passion for the game. As he rises through the ranks, Doug faces the harsh realities of professional hockey: the grind of long seasons, brutal injuries, and the pressure to succeed. But nothing compares to the stakes of the Stanley Cup Finals. In his rookie season, Doug's skills and heart push him to unimaginable heights, culminating in a thrilling championship victory. But the win is just the beginning of his story. As Doug navigates the complexities of contract negotiations, the pressure to maintain his success, and the weight of his newfound legacy, he must confront the true cost of greatness. The Good Old Hockey Game is a story of ambition, sacrifice, and triumph-showing that sometimes the hardest battles are not fought on the ice, but within ourselves. For hockey fans and anyone who has ever fought for their dreams, The Good Old Hockey Game is an unforgettable journey into the heart of a champion.
The Foursome
Golf fiction's finest hustler--The Green's Eddie Caminetti--returns in a laugh-out-loud novel featuring a foursome of upwardly mobile golf fanatics who get their just rewards. Tired of hustling for something as ordinary as money, Eddie Caminetti sets his sights slightly higher than other men's pockets: he goes after their souls. He now presides over Swithen Bairn, an exquisite secret golf course that's a kind of twisted Fantasy Island where the arrogant and pompous find their cherished dreams suddenly transformed into their worst nightmares. When four enviably successful business/golf junkies are lured to Swithen Bairn by an irresistible offer-- "the most memorable golf vacation you ever had or you don't pay" --the old adage that you can learn more about people during one round of golf than you can by living next door to them for six months comes hilariously and powerfully true. Mixing equal parts of suspense, hilarity, and raw human drama, Troon McAllister deftly shows readers what can happen when money, friendship, ambition, and greed converge explosively in a single round of golf.
Every Shot Counts
Jack's life has been turned upside-down, and he needs answers.Once a high-flying sales executive, Jack is now grappling with a failing career, astrained marriage, and a heart attack that has caused him to reevaluate everything. Inan effort to rebuild his life, Jack returns to a place where he once found tremendous joyand solace-the golf course.Guided by an enigmatic caddie, Jack finds himself on a transformative journey, learninginvaluable life lessons through the game he once loved. From the importance ofgratitude and balance to the power of presence and purpose, every hole is a metaphorfor life's challenges and triumphs. By navigating the fairways and bunkers that eachhole presents, Jack uncovers profound ways to rebuild his relationships and createmeaning beyond material success.Every Shot Counts is a poignant exploration of personal growth and the pursuit of afulfilling life. Ideal for readers drawn to character-driven narratives and inspirationalthemes, this book offers practical wisdom and emotional depth, leaving a lasting impactlong after the final page.
Love You Too
A small-town, surprise pregnancy, hockey romance You know what they say-when things start to come together, life throws you a curveball. Well, in this case...a hockey puck. Ten years ago, we were college sweethearts. Until Dominick (Ren) Renaldi decided the grass was greener playing pro hockey in Canada. I moved on-made my mark as a designer. I run two restaurants and an inn at our family winery, Buttercup Hill. Nothing is missing. Nothing at all. Then Ren struts into my small town, a reminder of a broken heart I locked in the past. Okay, yes, this responsible, type A girl could really use a wild night of scorchin' hot fun, and Ren, with his penetrating eyes and easy charm, is all too happy to deliver-grownup style. Imagine my surprise when I see a little pink plus sign a few weeks later. I'm not looking for love, especially with a guy who's walked away once. And Ren's serious about his career, so he will walk away. Besides, I'm not the kind of woman who traps a man with a surprise baby. But when our shared history and a certain little growing bean brings us close again, I discover the real reason Ren left-and why he's back. I find myself starting to like my baby daddy and the man he became. But what if I love him, too? Love You Too is a steamy standalone hockey romance in the Buttercup Hill series, where the men are as hot as the wine country sun. It's packed with banter, swoon, and a HEA.
Owl Nation
Carlo Amadeo, team captain of the Keene State Owls men's soccer club, leads an ensemble cast in this rousing tale of camaraderie and big dreams.Keene State College is a happening D3 school in Keene, New Hampshire, located in the southwest part of the state. This story covers D3 soccer at its best, as the Owls' team season winds through numerous ups and downs in its quest for the championship.The Owls are a different kind of team. During their four years in school, students here have played for the sheer enjoyment of the game, realizing that a professional soccer career will not be an option. They understand that they will end up in other professions after graduation.Even so, they play their hearts out in every play of every game.Owl Nation provides great soccer action, featuring players who work hard for the love of the game, as well as the camaraderie both on and off the pitch.(About the Author)Mike Maloni's previous four novels with Strategic Book Publishing are Defenseman: A Hockey Player's Story; Shortstop: Where Grace and Power Collide; Penn State Blue; and Olympic Gold: The Drive for Five. The author resides in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. He attended Keene State College in 1987-1988, before transferring to a school in Boston. He has overcome the debilitating effects of mental illness to write his books. A fan of many sports, he also loves music, photography, and writing. His next project is about two buddies working up the ranks in minor league baseball with the Boston Red Sox organization.
On Thick and Thin Ice
It's hockey registration time for the upcoming Belton Junior High season, and gifted forward Gord Jason surprises his teammates and coaches when he doesn't sign up.What made Gord decide to quit the sport he has been playing since he was eight years old? Some people are angry at his desertion, but others try to get him to come back to the ice. While everyone around him attempts to find out what made him walk away, the team is forced to begin conditioning and practicing without him, eventually playing games with the hopes of winning their first league championship. As the season progresses, will Gord come to regret giving up the game he has dedicated the last few years to?Set in the Prairies in the 1980s, On Thick and Thin Ice follows a group of twelve-to fourteen-year-old boys and their dedicated and passionate coach Ward Thomas through the ups and downs of being a team, demonstrating the importance of working together, camaraderie, and most of all, perseverance.
Quiet, Please
Any intense effort, such as with a bow and arrow, Tai Chi reenactment of nature's movements, or even swinging a golf club, can be a vehicle for bringing a mindfulness of the mental/physical aggregates of our existence into a clearer focus in the service of crossing a great river of life that, as ancients postulated, separated unwholesomeness from wholesomeness where freedom from suffering awaits. Realities of what comprises one's self and the fantasies of others can both be arenas for opening minds to pondering both life's unexplained mysteries and a path bringing life's known building blocks under self-control.Golf happens to be taken as the outward direction of the path, appreciation of gravity, and the centering of oneself as the underfooting of the path and a glimmer of a calm, alert mind as the destination. The present effort, inspired by actual experiences throughout the world, captures tales "outside of the spectator ropes"--some fantasized, some real--that hinted of essential elements of Eastern psychology underlying the aggregates of our existence and self-help aids such as practicing breathing meditation or mindfulness.
The Devil in the Diamond
Two soldiers. One American. One Japanese.One thing in common - baseball!World War II is coming to a violent close.As the Battle of Okinawa rages on, American soldiers seize Shuri Castle and find a single survivor: Yuujin Miyano. The U.S. private put in charge of watching this prisoner is Eugene Durante. Although enemies, the two men find they have a common multi-generational bond: baseball. Their grandfathers bore witness to, and helped shape, the extraordinary birth of the game. When the fighting ends, the two men return to their homes to face a postwar world neither expected. Then both receive unexpected messages that will change their lives forever. Once more, the veterans will face off in a final dramatic clash.Order your copy of THE DEVIL IN THE DIAMOND today!
A Hoopster’s Journey
A Hoopster's Journey: The Carey Scurry Story is the basketball legend's true story. The once celebrated L.I.U. and NBA star for the Utah Jazz and NY Knicks whom Brazilian Coach Helio Rubens Garcia called, "One of the three greatest players he'd ever coached," fell upon hard times. The book details his life before and after his professional basketball career. Scurry knew, as he hung up his jersey and stepped away from the game that beyond the cheers of the crowd, and the roar in the arenas were demons that caused his fall from grace plaguing his soul. In A Hoopster's Journey, Scurry shares some of the highest highs and lowest lows moments of his life. Facing the challenges of his choices, A Hoopster's Journey is an unflinching and honest story of his triumphs, struggles, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It is heart-wrenching as it is heart-warming to see Scurry's renewed motivation, determination, rehabilitation, and perseverance to beat drug abuse, and societal challenges, and to strive for achievement in the face of adversity. Most of all, it is a gift to those who need it. Be moved. Be inspired. Be transformed. Carey Scurry, born in the Mecca of Basketball, Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, is a former American professional basketball player who played for Long Island University and in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a forward for three seasons for the Utah Jazz and New York Knicks.
A Tennis Story
Immerse yourself in the tale of a lifelong tennis enthusiast with Richard S. Hillman's A Tennis Story. Peter Love fell in love with tennis the day his father introduced the game to his son during a family vacation at a resort in the Catskill Mountains. He played tennis throughout his college years until he graduated from Upsilon University in 1965, trying to cope with the socio-political strife of the '60s by using tennis as an outlet to navigate the stress and pressure of everyday life. During this time, he met the beautiful May Taylor-his future wife. After his stint as a professor at NYU, Peter and his wife retired to Florida. Now, as age has finally caught up to him, Peter struggles to keep up with the game he has loved all his life."Funny, poignant, and heartwarming, A Tennis Story is an ode to the game of tennis. The book follows the adventures of a diehard devotee and his lifelong quest to stay competitive even as his body catches up to the passing of the years. Richard S. Hillman infuses a lot of heart and humor into this story. The author captures the turbulent times of '60s and '70s America with an engaging narrative that plays out like a slice-of-life drama with some relevant social commentary. Peter Love is a fascinating protagonist whose inner monologues were some of my favorite parts of the book. The scene when he teamed up with May for a mixed-doubles match had me in stitches. All in all, this is a must-read for tennis fans and drama lovers alike." -Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
The Field of Plenty
"A winner on the football gridiron and beyond." Paul Volponi, multi-award-winning author of The Final FourMitchell Baker's meteoric rise as a star punter and field-goal kicker stunned everyone-except his father, Ken. Ken meticulously groomed Mitch into the athletic sensation he became. But just as Mitch's career peaks, tragedy strikes: he loses the most crucial game of his high school career, and shortly after his father dies. Struggling to cope, Mitch falls into a pill addiction and reconnects with Uncle Paul, a mysterious family friend and self-proclaimed miracle worker.Unraveling a web of deceit spun by Uncle Paul and his late father, Mitch confronts the painful truths about his past. He's thrust into a dilemma-questioning the very foundation of his upbringing. In this turbulent journey, Mitch faces off against his rival Teddy Jones and finds an unlikely ally in the troubled yet captivating Bianca Black.Confronted with the raw realities of his own broken self-identity, Mitch navigates the chaos of loss both on and off the field, and he must determine what's real ... and what's worth fighting for.
Sporting Tales
Sporting tales for troubled times...Sporting Tales is about finding more imaginative ways to engage with the unprecedented challenges our times, and brings together a huge range of insight and imagination from elite athletes, academic experts, poets, artists and activists. The current moment seems more precarious than ever, standing on the edge of potentially irreversible ecological decline and in the grip of toxic social divisions. Athletes engaged in outdoor physical exertion find themselves especially exposed, with their health and lives under threat from the climate extremes of a heating planet, as well as the air pollution from the burning of fossil fuels. But sport has an extraordinary ability and opportunity to mobilise its mass audience and appeal for change. Sporting Tales is part of a bigger project, and the fifth volume of essays and stories curated by the New Weather Institute following: There was a Knock at the Door, Knock Twice, Knock Three Times, and Contagious Tales. It includes contributions from several members of the Cool Down - sport for climate action network ISee the whole series). ""Sport is losing to climate breakdown and climate criminals, but has always been a coliseum of social and political change. Can sport rise to the occasion? These tales of hope make me think so."Jasmin Paris, champion ultrarunner and the first woman to complete the infamous Barkley Marathons "Sport has many stories to tell; good and bad. Sporting Tales is a stadium full of better stories about surviving and thriving in a troubled world."Melissa Wilson, Team GB rower and co-founder of Athletes for the World "An uplifting and important collection of tales that epitomise the "think global, act local" approach to tackling systemic societal and environmental challenges through the lens of sport. A must read."Claire Poole, founder, the Sport Positive Summit "Story is about the very patterns of life. We recognise the narrative arcs of daring tales, the reticence to change habits at first, the heroic journey when prompted, the hope that follows action, the evil antagonist, the path back home But sport is a bit different, the losses are inevitable, even for the good. And they happen a lot. Sport is central to modern culture, and these Sporting Tales are a fine, wise and fabulous insight into how sport can change the world, and how it too mirrors those very economic and social structures in their best and worst ways."Jules Pretty, Professor of Environment and Society at the University of Essex and author of The Low-Carbon Good Life "We all know that sport is sometimes thought of as a battlefield. Orwell once likened it to 'mimic warfare'. But increasingly the struggle is for the soul and purpose of sport: torn between regenerating communities, building health and social relationships as opposed to providing a propaganda vehicle for undemocratic regimes and major polluters. This beautifully written collection shows that new stories and narratives of how the spirit of sport is being reclaimed can yet save everything we love about sport from those whose values threaten our very existence."Professor Peter Newell, Sussex University.
7 best short stories by Ring Lardner
Discover the literary genius of Ring Lardner in "7 Best Short Stories". This book presents a superb selection of the best stories by the renowned American writer, known for his sharp humor and keen observations on everyday life and the world of sports. With unforgettable characters and engaging plots, Lardner captures the complexities and nuances of human relationships and daily experiences. His ability to combine humor and depth offers the reader a unique literary experience, provoking both laughter and reflection. An essential collection for lovers of fine literature, revealing the unparalleled talent of one of the masters of the short story. Check out the stories in this book: - Haircut: a small town's stories are revealed by a barber as he chats with a customer about past events and local characters.- The Golden Honeymoon: a couple celebrates their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Florida, facing challenges and rediscovering their connection.- My Roomy: a baseball player recounts the difficulties of sharing a room with a peculiar roommate who interferes with his game performance.- Horseshoes: rivalries and intense competition emerge during a game of horseshoes, reflecting the competitive life and camaraderie among baseball players.- Harmony: amid the tension of the baseball season, the lack of harmony in the team challenges players and coaches to find a balance to win.- Alibi Ike: Frank Farrell, nicknamed "Alibi Ike", is a baseball player famous for his excuses and justifications for every play, good or bad.- Champion: Midge Kelly, a young boxer, faces challenges and personal struggles as he seeks to establish himself as a champion in the boxing world.If you like short stories, check other books of our collection 7 best short stories and get to know amazing writers of all styles.
Major Curveball
In the quiet corners of a small town, where dreams seem beyond reach, young harbors a vision that defies all odds. Blind from birth but fueled by an unwavering passion for baseball, Russel Smith hears the crack of the bat and feels the rhythm of the game deep within his soul.Guided by his steadfast determination and supported by those who believe in his extraordinary gift, Russel embarks on a remarkable journey. From the sun-drenched grade school fields to the hallowed grounds of major league stadiums, he faces challenges that test his spirit and his resolve.Major Curveball is a poignant tale of courage, perseverance, and the boundless power of dreams. Join Russel as he steps up to the plate, not just to play the game he loves, but to inspire a world that believes in the triumph of the human spirit.
The Legend Lives On
This is the compelling realistic story about athletics in the small towns in Texas. It tells the story of building a championship tradition from a below average program that attracts five good coaches and their collision with a group of gifted athletes and it is told through the eyes of the citizens of the community in which it all takes place. The characters are as real as those in so many small towns and the interchanging of their attitudes and behaviors are comical at times. It illustrates how often smaller communities are identified by the public school's success in athletics and how much success can bring about new ideas and attract others to want and become a part of their success. It also shows what a challenge people from the outside have in being accepted and being understood, but when they are, all benefit from the experience. The question that is asked in this story is whether the next generation and a new staff can continue the tradition established, now that the "golden boys" have graduated and gone on to college. It is an amazing tribute to those who follow such an era and their struggles.
Swim
"Set against the backdrop of the suffragette movement, the First World War and the Paris Olympics, Swim is a powerful novel about skill, courage and determination. I was completely invested in the story of Lucy Morton and her quest to become a champion swimmer. Lisa Brace's writing moves seamlessly between tension, poignancy and humour in a compelling story. The perfect book for Olympic year." Gill Thompson, author of bestselling The Oceans Between UsParis, 1924. The Olympics. Lucy Morton, an ambitious Blackpool swimmer waits to find out if she's won against her American rival.If she has, she'll be the first British woman to win Gold in an individual event. If she has, it'll upset the apple cart. The Americans have been sweeping the boards and, at 26, she's a veteran in the sport.If she has, it'll be despite the car accident she was in just 48 hours before, which saw her lose five teeth, crack a rib and be out cold until the morning of the biggest race of her life.If she has, it'll be a long way from the 10-year-old who almost drowned the first time she tried swimming, thrown into a pool to rectify her 'dunce like' ways.Morton's biopic is one of a pioneering British woman, who represented Great Britain in the Olympics at a time when the male athletes outnumbered the female competitors 22 to one.A woman who gained World Records, competed during an air raid and had to battle against sexism and politics, whilst the First World War took place and suffragettes fought on their own frontlines.Coming up to the centenary of Lucy's Olympics in 2024 and with women still battling to be allowed to compete in sports across the world, her story is as relevant now as it was then.It is one of courage, perseverance and belief.It needs to be told.
Closer to the Sun
BILLY INFANTE IS AN ANGRY AND TROUBLED YOUNG MAN WHO SEES LIFE THROUGH A DARK LENS. BORN IN A BLUE-COLLAR NEIGHBORHOOD, HE, AS MANY BEFORE HIM, TURNS TO BOXING AS A WAY OUT. HIS VIEW OF LIFE, COLORED BY THE PHILADELPHIA NEIGHBORHOOD OF PORT RICHMOND, SHAPES HIM JUST AS SURELY AS IF HE WERE ON A POTTERS' WHEEL. THIS IS A STORY ABOUT FAMILY, RACE RELATIONS IN LOVE AND IN SPORT, TRUE FRIENDS AND FALSE FRIENDS, AND OVERCOMING OUR BASEST OF INSTINCTS, OF HAVING THE COURAGE TO DO THE RIGHT THING, AND TO HELL WITH THE CONSEQUENCES. ABOUT A MAN WHO FINDS REDEMPTION, A DIFFERENT PATH, AND THE POWER OF LOVE. YOU KNOW THIS GUY. WE ALL DO.
So, You Thought Golf Was Easy
"So, You Thought Golf Was Easy by David Pendlebury is an appealing story of a young man, striving to achieve his dreams in life. However, unlike some scripted plot, real life tests you through adversities, unfavorable conditions, challenges, and what not; meanwhile, demanding courage, patience, persistence, and determination before allowing you to live your dreams. Similarly, the story shares all it takes to follow one's passion and live a life of one's choice. Exploring through the pages, the readers are like to relate to the emotions of the characters since we share the same one life - the challenges and the achievements."
Rippa!
It's 1989 and a surf-loving Aussie teenager flukes a dream move to an English footballing giant. Problem is, it's never been his dream, and in the brutal big leagues he has a fight on his hands to ensure his laidback life doesn't turn into one giant nightmare.Before Harry Kewell, Mark Viduka and Tim Cahill became household names in English football, and once Craig Johnston retired, there was another Aussie name on every football fan's lips.Rippa - Joey Rippa.This 19-year-old high school drop-out wants to be on the waves or smoking pot and strumming his guitar in his small Western Australian beach town, instead of being on a football pitch. But the round-ball game is where his real talent lies and when he has the match of his life for the State team against a travelling West Ham United side in a glamour friendly, he's offered a pro contract with the English First Division side. With the bill's mounting in his father's bar, his beloved uncle facing homelessness, and his band needing a new recording, he reluctantly signs and heads over to the UK.But the dream move turns sour the moment he lands when he discovers that The Hammers' manager, Bobby Noll, has been sacked and with no one at the club having any idea who this blonde-stubbled Kim Wilde-lookalike is, he's farmed out to Middleby United, a struggling non-league provincial outfit.And in the most landlocked town in Britain, and with its howling wind, never-ending rain and permanent grey skies, he feels a million miles away from his beloved sand and sun lifestyle.Rippa is faced with isolation, loneliness, terrible cuisine and a dressing room and stadium of home fans who think of him, at best, as a novelty, and, at worst, a pathetic joke.Still mourning his beloved English-born football-loving mother (who vanished six years earlier), he finds an unlikely ally in the club's female physio and tries to buckle down and make it in the brutal sink or swim world of English football. And along the way, he makes his family and hometown back in Australia proud, reminds West Ham that he actually exists, and get struggling Middleby back to the big time.
Though I Fall
Born into a lineage of racing legends, Chad Watson was destined to carry on the family's legacy. Fate handed him a cruel blow, however, leaving him with not only a burden that still weighs heavy on his heart but also the physical limitations life has dealt him.Years have passed since tragedy struck those around him, yet the pain of their absence remains for Chad. Haunted by their memories, he struggles to reconcile with this harsh new reality.As darkness surrounds Chad's future, an unexpected opportunity arises-one that could reignite his passion for the sport that once defined his family. Yet, as Chad delves deeper into the world of motorsport, the specter of his past looms ever larger.In THOUGH I FALL, Chad Watson's journey unfolds, navigating the treacherous bends of abandonment, grief, addiction, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. As he battles his inner demons, he discovers that true victory lies not only in conquering the racetrack but also in finding the strength to forge his own path.Join him on this pulse-pounding journey of self-discovery as he confronts his fears and discovers the true meaning of courage, perseverance, and the power of embracing one's own legacy.
Though I Fall
Born into a lineage of racing legends, Chad Watson was destined to carry on the family's legacy. Fate handed him a cruel blow, however, leaving him with not only a burden that still weighs heavy on his heart but also the physical limitations life has dealt him.Years have passed since tragedy struck those around him, yet the pain of their absence remains for Chad. Haunted by their memories, he struggles to reconcile with this harsh new reality.As darkness surrounds Chad's future, an unexpected opportunity arises-one that could reignite his passion for the sport that once defined his family. Yet, as Chad delves deeper into the world of motorsport, the specter of his past looms ever larger.In THOUGH I FALL, Chad Watson's journey unfolds, navigating the treacherous bends of abandonment, grief, addiction, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. As he battles his inner demons, he discovers that true victory lies not only in conquering the racetrack but also in finding the strength to forge his own path.Join him on this pulse-pounding journey of self-discovery as he confronts his fears and discovers the true meaning of courage, perseverance, and the power of embracing one's own legacy.
Open Links
It is the final day of the Open Championship and storm clouds are gathering over Muirfield, Scotland. Fighting his way into the elite field of millionaire golfers, billionaire financiers, frenzied journalists and pompous officials is a journeyman golfer who is out of his depth and about to drown.18 short chapters, over 18 long holes of one extraordinary round of golf. All eyes divert from the game's star players to a golfer no one has ever heard of. There is no precedent for what unfurls. Nothing about our hero is normal. Commentators are dumbfounded. Rules officials are apoplectic. As events conspire, he leads global news bulletins, his audience swells, and the world is transfixed. A tale of the human spirit, resilience, and extraordinary feats we are all capable of. A life affirming story of hope, family, love and endeavour; it will resonate with everyone, but particularly those readers who still dare to dream and to believe.Featured in Golf Monthly's "Best Golf Novels Ever Published."Perfect for golf geeks but also those who have never played the fiendish game (or even, golfed?).A laugh-out-loud caper with equal servings of heart and soul.All authorial profits from Open Links are gifted to the Anthony Nolan Trust, contributing to their life-saving work against blood cancer.Whether you're a golf enthusiast, an avid reader, or just looking for a story that will stay with you. Dive into this classic anti-hero tale and enjoy being a part of a noble cause to defeat blood cancer.
He Bet the Farm
Seeing is believing. Or is it? We've witnessed college and professional sports become multibillion-dollar industries, but with a Pandora Box full of problems. The contests themselves often raise questions. How could he miss that layup? How could he drop such an easy pass? How could the ref rule it that way? Did the gamblers get to the referee? The questions stretch all the way to a small town, Harrison, deep in southern Indiana. The local college may not have a sports team in the big time, but the town's proximity to a casino boat on the borderline Ohio River provides plenty of action for gamblers.The local Gamblers Anonymous chapter is the state's newest and busiest. Surely, it's the only one to have Abraham Lincoln rescue a member! This is the third novel in Mike Conklin's Town & Gown series. The others, each set in mythical Harrison, are "Transfer U." and "Class Dismissed."
Teammates
The best friendships don't often start with brawls on the baseball field. But when unassuming, under-talented Nick Davis and Ryan Winter each take exception to some hard-nosed baseball, a rivalry born of a mutual understanding of what it means to be a teammate is formed. Nick, aided by his talented best friend Greg Romano, squares off against Ryan, along with his fiery younger brother, Henry. Aside from their on-the-field issues, each of them contends with the harsh realities that go along with being eighteen years old as they vie to become Iowa State Champions. As the boys work, fight, and strive for their first chance at success, their mentor, Sheldon Hill, a former World Series hero, struggles to come to terms with the end of his playing career.Teammates is a novel about baseball, friendship, growing up, and learning what it takes to become a good teammate and a good man.
Teammates
The best friendships don't often start with brawls on the baseball field. But when unassuming, under-talented Nick Davis and Ryan Winter each take exception to some hard-nosed baseball, a rivalry born of a mutual understanding of what it means to be a teammate is formed.Nick, aided by his talented best friend Greg Romano, squares off against Ryan, along with his fiery younger brother, Henry. Aside from their on-the-field issues, each of them contends with the harsh realities that go along with being eighteen years old as they vie to become Iowa State Champions.As the boys work, fight, and strive for their first chance at success, their mentor, Sheldon Hill, a former World Series hero, struggles to come to terms with the end of his playing career.Teammates is a novel about baseball, friendship, growing up, and learning what it takes to become a good teammate and a good man.
Blind Squirrel
A moving story of family, loss, love, and hope.Noah Nicholson has a gift. He is blessed with extraordinary hand-eye coordination. This gift has helped him build a successful career as a minor-league hockey player. But Noah is damaged. His parents died in a car accident when he was twelve, and he has dealt with mental health issues ever since. It's only after Noah loses his gift in a career-ending injury that he is able to begin the healing process.Readers will meet indelible characters: Noah's mother, cerebral and mentally tough; his good-natured, even-keeled father; his crusty grandmother, who has a soft spot for Boston's sports teams; his effervescent, talented, Russian-born teammate, who becomes Noah's mentee; an orange cat whose meow doesn't have an 'm'; an eleven-year-old girl who looks like Pippi Longstocking; and the pediatric dentist with a sense of humor and a crooked smile who makes her way past Noah's defenses and captures his heart. Then, of course, there is Noah himself. Smart, selfless, and silently struggling. We cheer for Noah, but unlike the fans who come to watch him play, it is not in appreciation of his singular, one-of-a-kind gift. Instead, we cheer for Noah because he isplainly, ordinarily human.
Behind The Line A Story Of College Life And Football
"Behind the Line" is a completely unique written by way of Ralph Henry Barbour, a prolific American writer seemed for his works inside the young man or woman and sports activities fiction genres. This novel offers reader a compelling glimpse into the area of university soccer at some level in the early 20th century. The tale revolves around the studies of Hal Paine, a university soccer participant who faces annoying conditions each on and rancid the field. As Hal navigates the rigorous needs of soccer exercise and the competitive nature of the game, he additionally grapples with non-public and academic struggles. The novel provides a vibrant portrayal of the camaraderie among teammates, the pressures of collegiate athletics, and the boom of the protagonist as he confronts numerous barriers. "Behind the Line" captures the spirit of American university existence inside the context of early 20th-century football life-style. Barbour skillfully combines factors of sportsmanship, friendship, and private development, growing a story that resonates with readers inquisitive about the dynamics of collegiate sports and the approaching-of-age adventure of its characters.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct
A sexy professional football player. A single mom's quest for her son's biological father. As hidden truths unravel, will she risk not only her custody but also her blossoming romance?Exhausted single mom, Megan Lowell, faces a life-altering choice: should she seek out her adopted son's biological father? The only lead she has is that he's a player for the Springfield Spartans football team. But what if pursuing this path puts her custody at risk? Despite the heart-wrenching possibility, she turns to Danny, her incredibly sexy yet forbidden friend on the team, to discreetly inquire.Danny Parker, All-Star wide receiver and media sensation, is America's heartthrob. He's charming, witty, and dangerously attractive. He's always been clear about his aversion to parenthood; he can't afford distractions from his career. Yet, as he gazes into Megan's eyes, he senses a familiar desperation, reminiscent of his own mother's struggles. He's determined to help her find the missing puzzle piece even if it means confronting his demons and questioning his lifetime anti-fatherhood rhetoric.But when they find her son's father...Danny and Megan have to deal with the sack of a lifetime. Will they recover or will the turnover cost them more than they could have imagined?Hunker down today and read this touching story of sacrifice, unforeseen obstacles, and love.-------Unsportsmanlike Conduct is the third full-length novel in the Springfield Spartans series of steamy interconnected (happy ending) standalones featuring the football players of Springfield, Massachusetts-a single mother, who's-your-daddy, neurospicy heroine, recovering alcoholic hero, professional football romance with plenty of heat and angst.
The Music of the Gridiron
An offence with attitude and a mean streak.A defence so radical it's dubbed "the Weird."A fractured coaching staff ready to come to blows.It is Head Coach Arne Viimets' third year at McGill, and he's been told his contract will not be renewed. The university is moving in a different direction, and he is not the man wanted at the helm of the football program. But what if he achieves the ultimate success? What if he brings his team to the Vanier Cup? It's a long shot - McGill hasn't even made the playoffs since Arne took over. To do so will require every element of his peculiar football genius. It will require his controversial best player to buy in. It will require his team to punch above its weight game after game. Ultimately, it will require Arne to hold his own life together as forces from all directions threaten to tear it apart.
The Music of the Gridiron
An offence with attitude and a mean streak.A defence so radical it's dubbed "the Weird."A fractured coaching staff ready to come to blows.It is Head Coach Arne Viimets' third year at McGill, and he's been told his contract will not be renewed. The university is moving in a different direction, and he is not the man wanted at the helm of the football program. But what if he achieves the ultimate success? What if he brings his team to the Vanier Cup? It's a long shot - McGill hasn't even made the playoffs since Arne took over. To do so will require every element of his peculiar football genius. It will require his controversial best player to buy in. It will require his team to punch above its weight game after game. Ultimately, it will require Arne to hold his own life together as forces from all directions threaten to tear it apart.
The Year of Durocher
The year is 1948 and Leo Durocher, feisty manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers, has committed the ultimate act of betrayal by defecting to the rival New York Giants.This traitorous act is very much on Jonathan Manheim's mind as he recounts the events of a tumultuous year in his life, a year involving love, ambition and acts of betrayal. And is through the experiences that he has in this year, the year of Durocher, that he learns the true meaning of loyalty and friendship.
Eagles Soar
Coach Bart Graham coaches a football team that encounters all sorts of challenges on and off the field. Bart is comfortable with his faith and calls on it to assist him while coaching. The team has some experienced and talented players and some who are new to the game of football. Quarterback Rex Jackson is an exceptional player and effective leader who seems to easily rally the team. When tragedy strikes the team, faith becomes more than just a part of football. It becomes the crucial centerpiece to dealing with grief while enabling the Eagles to Soar. Brian Barham grew up loving the game of football and was coached by his dad as a youth. As an adult, Brian coached each of his three sons as they played youth football. He continued to coach at the middle school, junior varsity, and varsity levels. Through the prayers and example of a friend, Brian came to know Christ as his personal savior during the 9th grade. Faith remains central to his life. Brian served a career as a soldier which included several deployments. After the Army, Brian taught JROTC and relished coaching and working with young people. Brian and his wife, Chris, raised a daughter and three sons who are off leading their own interesting lives. He settled in North Alabama along Weiss Lake. He remains active coaching, attending Men's Bible study, and worshiping at his local church.
On the Ball!
David Vassall's father was an ex-England international centre-forward, so when David starts at Repington, there are high expectations for the school football team. In his trial match, however, despite having some natural talent as a footballer, he "funks" - chickens out of tackles - a big taboo in school culture.Vassall is villified - and falls foul of the bully Birtles. The irrepressible, charismatic McPhail, however, see more to the situation and takes Vassall in hand.Without a decent centre-forward, the house and school team look set to decline. Will the bullies, or Vassall and his few good friends, prevail?Stanley Horler was the father of the football novel, On the Ball! is one of his best.
The Great Game
Did you know the first cup final at England's new national stadium built in the 1920s was between Downside FC and Wildwood Town in front of 100,000 spectators ? No ? Then read on."Sadness hung about him like a foggy halo. It pervaded and permeated the man, seeming to exude from his clothes and mingle with the rain that dripped from the almost unbelievable hat he carried his hand. He had come out of the black night like a visitant from another world.'My name, gentlemen, ' he said in an accent strongly Scottish, 'is McPhee - Angus McPhee.' "So opens the novel. The directors of Downside F.C. - the worst team in the country - are taken aback by this strange character presenting himself for the post of trainer. Having no alternative they give him a try, but the dastardly manager, Horace Ovens, hates him, and bankruptcy threatens the club. But is there more to this eccentric ex-Tommy than meets the eye. He sets out to lick the team into shape and turn its fortunes around.Stanley Horler was the father of the football novel, The Great Game/McPhee is probably his best work.
Top Ten Legendary NBA Players
Step into the arena, where the roar of the crowd echoes and the hardwood glistens under the spotlight. Here, giants walk among mortals, defying physical limitations and leaving audiences breathless with their displays of athletic prowess and sheer basketball genius. In this realm, names like Larry Bird, Tim Duncan, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquille O'Neal resonate with awe and admiration. Each player, with their own unique style and set of accomplishments, has etched their name into the annals of basketball history, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire generations of players and fans alike. This book embarks on a journey through these legendary figures' careers, exploring their remarkable achievements, fascinating statistics, and captivating stories. We delve into their statistical dominance, highlighting their individual strengths and contributions that made them champions on the court. But statistics only tell part of the story. We uncover rare facts and trivia, shedding light on their personalities, challenges, and triumphs that paint a vivid picture of each player's journey.
Eye on the Prize
The story of Mikai, a talented young boxer, and Caitlyn, the beautiful woman he falls in love with. Full of action and passion, the fast-moving plot, with its twists and turns and cast of dramatic characters, all connected in intriguing and unexpected ways, keeps the reader guessing right to the end. The obstacles Mikai faces in the boxing ring mirror the difficulties he (and Caitlyn) have had to overcome in the past, and the continuing struggle that faces them in their desire to have a future together.
Everything's Better With You
Retired quarterback and "nicest guy in the NFL" Leslie Payton met former college cheerleader-turned-reality-show darling Joe Judd fifteen years ago. They spent one magical night...talking. They've been pining for each other via text and phone calls ever since while their careers kept them geographically apart. When their alma mater recruits them to reinvigorate a flagging athletic program, Leslie is thrilled to finally have Joe close enough to see if their "what if" can become a reality. And the sooner the better before Leslie's history of Traumatic Brain Injury catches up to him and he's unable to be a true partner.Joe has spent their years apart dancing on reality TV, Broadway, and concert tours, knowing full well the clock is ticking on his body's ability to continue taking the abuse. Leslie wants forever to start now, and Joe doesn't have that luxury, though Leslie makes him want things he's never allowed himself to dream of with anyone else. But a lifetime of only feeling worthwhile for his performance ability makes him doubt whether he could ever be a good coach or enough of a partner for the best man he's ever known.As football and cheer coaches, they're forced to be rivals in public, but behind closed doors, their chemistry is unstoppable. A wager triggers their competitive sides, but the secrets they keep come to light and present them with a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. Can they finally meet on the relationship 50-yard line and move forward as a team? Recommended for readers 18 and up who love open and honest dialogue about sex, and challenges to toxic masculinity. Also included: mesh crop tops, gratuitous shirtless car wash scenes, phone sex therapy, and all the pining.
The Rival Pitchers; a Story of College Baseball
This exciting novel follows the ups and downs of two college baseball pitchers, as they battle each other on the field and off. With a cast of colorful characters and plenty of on-the-field action, this book is sure to delight sports fans of all ages.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
It’s all in the Game
Get ready for a thrilling and heartwarming collection of tennis tales from one of the greatest tennis players who ever lived. William Tilden, also known as Big Bill, shares his memorable moments on and off the court, his strategies and thoughts about the game, and his reflections on his long and successful career. This is a must-read for any tennis fan.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Hearts And The Diamond
A gripping tale of love and deception set in the world of professional baseball, Hearts and the Diamond is a must-read for fans of romance and sports.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
The Wheelman; Volume 2
This gripping novel from the late 1800s tells the story of a young man caught up in the dangerous and competitive world of professional bicycling. Full of thrills, spills, and unexpected plot twists, this work captures the excitement and energy of a bygone era in American sports history.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
Racecourse And Battlefield
This is a novel set in the world of horse racing and tells the story of a jockey named Dick Thorley. The story follows Thorley as he tries to find success on the racecourse while dealing with personal and professional challenges. It is a thrilling and engaging read for anyone interested in horse racing or sports fiction.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
The Girl and the Pennant
Brimming with heart and hope, this uplifting novel tells the story of a young woman who overcomes obstacles and discrimination to follow her dream of playing baseball, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
The Fifth Ace
The Fifth Ace is a novel by Douglas Grant set in the world of professional poker. It follows the story of a young player who rises to fame and fortune, but finds that success comes at a price. The novel explores themes of ambition, greed, and the lure of the game.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
