Kansas Baseball
Baseball has long been synonymous with Kansas. Go back to the late 1800s and the birth of Walter Johnson and George Sweatt, Humboldt kids who played baseball at the highest level but in different leagues due to racism. Learn about the sixteen-year-old signed by the Kansas City Athletics, who left the University of Kansas campus to play his first game at Municipal Stadium the next day. Read about pioneers in the game named Joyce, Katie and Alex, determined and talented women who are part of our national pastime. Author Michael Travis shares his love for the game, rounding the bases from its beginnings in Wichita with League 42 to the Major Leagues.
That Futebol Feeling
Futebol, or soccer for Americans, is the planet's spectator sport of choice. In the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, nestled in the country's southeastern heartland, futebol generates powerful, lifelong emotions. That Futebol Feeling captures the region's enthrallment with "the beautiful game," and shows us how and why play is central to the human condition. David Faflik profiles members of the most celebrated local team, Clube Atl矇tico Mineiro (CAM), as well as its passionate, never-say-die fans, to show how futebol and fandom shape their everyday lives and perspectives. He discovers bonds of work and play, as well as pride, identity, and community. Additionally, Faflik's analysis of Brazil's futebol culture reflects sports fandom worldwide. CAM stands as a symbol for a way of life in Minas Gerais, the birthplace of Pel矇. Faflik interrogates what playing the game means to those who dedicate their lives to the sport. He writes, "The feelings that football inspires are the best of me." That Futebol Feeling shares that special feeling with the rest of us.
Shattering the Glass
American women's basketball has reached new peaks of interest and popularity, thanks to spellbinding athletes, exhilarating games, and a vibrant, empowered vision of womanhood. Shattering the Glass stands as the definitive history of the sport. Combining extensive historical research with dozens of oral history interviews, Pamela Grundy and Susan Shackelford bring life and depth to stories of the many generations of female athletes who have fought for liberation on and off the court.In this new and substantially expanded edition, Grundy and Shackelford provide a fresh view of the sport that extends to the present. They chart the expanding visibility of college programs, the growing dynamism of the WNBA, and players' courageous leadership on social issues such as sexuality and race, drawing on the actions and reflections of stars such as Seimone Augustus, Kim Mulkey, Brittney Griner, Geno Auriemma, Pat Summitt, Breanna Stewart, Dawn Staley, and Caitlin Clark. The result is a compelling story of women's empowerment through sport over the past century.
Who Owns Football?
'a must-read' - Daniel Storey 'Superb, from the first page to the last' - Daniel Taylor Football journalist Nick Miller lifts the lid on football club ownership: the defining issue shaping the modern game. Football club owners can take teams to the heights of the Champions League or send them out of existence entirely. They have to tread a precarious tightrope, navigating the issues presented by super leagues, rapidly escalating wages, transfer fees and financial fair play. Who Owns Football? uncovers the jeopardy, strategies, transformative successes and horror stories, steering you through the complex world in which the people who control our game live and operate. There's the owner who was a safe-breaker, the man who tried to burn down his own stadium and even one who was accused of war crimes. This insightful guide is full of fascinating characters, high finance and shady deals. Miller examines the forces at play and discusses how today's football club ownership models face up to an impending crisis. But among the potential doom, there are some bright lights, people who are doing things differently and might make you think there is some hope after all.
Diamond Duels
In Diamond Duels: Baseball's Greatest Matchups, we take a magnifying glass to some of the game's most entertaining and historic battles between hitters and pitchers, played out over breezy spring evenings, hot summer afternoons, and chilly fall evenings as the long, rumbling baseball season finally winds down. Then we look closer.As a sport with such a rich and diverse history, baseball offers us a long and fascinating recounting of so many of those dramatic matchups-- if you know where to look. There are many untold stories inside the box scores; Duke Snider slamming 19 home runs off Robin Roberts, who must have groaned every time he saw No. 4 at the plate; a starry-eyed National League star Dizzy Dean finally getting to pitch to American League folk hero Babe Ruth, winding down his career with the Boston Braves; Yankees manager Casey Stengel deciding not to start left-handed ace Whitey Ford in some key moments throughout Ford's Hall of Fame career; Albert Pujols doing his best to upset those careful pregame pitching strategy sessions by going out and swatting a record 154 of his 703 career blasts in his very first at-bat of the game. Diamond Duels is a book for the old and the young baseball fan, those who want to know just a little bit more about those dramatic matchups between pitcher and hitter throughout the games of our lives as well as those who want to look back, find out something they hadn't thought of, enriching their everlasting baseball memories.
Baseball's Two-Way Greats
The first book to explore the entire history of two-way baseball players from the 19th century up to the modern era, this comprehensive work demonstrates that Shohei Ohtani and Babe Ruth are not the only players to excel at both pitching and batting. In-depth profiles examine how Ohtani and Ruth compare to 19th century star John Montgomery Ward and Negro League standouts Bullet Rogan, Martin Dihigo, Leon Day and Ted "Double Duty" Radcliffe as two-way players. This historical overview outlines the path each player took to reach greatness as a pitcher and a batter, and helps answer the fundamental question: who is baseball's greatest two-way player? Sixty additional Negro League players are covered for their two-way feats, plus an examination of top two-way players from the 19th century, Deadball Era, and Live-Ball Era--more than 130 players overall are featured. Also included is an overview of 25 top-hitting pitchers and a closer look at all the statistics that define a two-way player.
That Futebol Feeling
Futebol, or soccer for Americans, is the planet's spectator sport of choice. In the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, nestled in the country's southeastern heartland, futebol generates powerful, lifelong emotions. That Futebol Feeling captures the region's enthrallment with "the beautiful game," and shows us how and why play is central to the human condition. David Faflik profiles members of the most celebrated local team, Clube Atl矇tico Mineiro (CAM), as well as its passionate, never-say-die fans, to show how futebol and fandom shape their everyday lives and perspectives. He discovers bonds of work and play, as well as pride, identity, and community. Additionally, Faflik's analysis of Brazil's futebol culture reflects sports fandom worldwide. CAM stands as a symbol for a way of life in Minas Gerais, the birthplace of Pel矇. Faflik interrogates what playing the game means to those who dedicate their lives to the sport. He writes, "The feelings that football inspires are the best of me." That Futebol Feeling shares that special feeling with the rest of us.
Life Lessons from a Really Bad Golfer 2024
There are many things we can learn from those who have achieved feats of success. But what about the rest of us? Life Lessons from a Really Bad Golfer is a book of personal golf stories that relate helpful life truths. While there are attempts at humor, I have also tried to draw inspirational parallels for reflection.
Madden & Summerall
Madden & Summerall tells the inside story of how two unlikely partners became the greatest broadcast duo in NFL history. This is the story of how John Madden and Pat Summerall got to CBS and, although very different, how they became the greatest broadcast team of all time. It is told by Rich Podolsky, who worked alongside them both at CBS. Separately, they were great. Together, they were the greatest ever. Madden & Summerall is about two stalwarts of the game, but their story is not without controversy. Summerall was a five-sport star who became a broadcaster by accident. Uncharacteristically, he was a morning drive-time radio host before he found his path on TV. Madden was a bigger-than-life Super Bowl-winning coach, and he easily could have been a stand-up comedian. We all remember the great story-telling John Madden, who won sixteen Emmy Awards, but we don't remember how much he struggled his first two years on the air to find his way. In fact, he was almost fired after his first season. It wasn't until he was paired with Summerall that it all clicked. They were so different, yet so perfect together-like peanut butter meeting jelly for the first time. The book follows the intimate stories of their lives from childhood to death: before and during their great twenty-one-year partnership. Never-before-told insider stories (some fun, some scathing) from friends, family members, and dozens of ex-colleagues pepper these chapters.
Mari獺n Hossa (Autographed Edition)
A Stanley Cup champion and modern legend of the game, in his own words Mari獺n Hossa's life is a lesson in the value of determination and perseverance. Born into a hockey family that included his father, a former player and coach of the Slovakian national team, Mari獺n and his brother, Marcel, quickly fell in love with the sport. Before long, they began to display the level of skill that could lead to a professional career. But the odds of reaching the NHL from Trenč穩n, a town of 50,000 people nestled among the mountains of Slovakia, remained long. Determined to follow their dreams, the Hossas persevered and were each eventually drafted in the first round. After some outstanding years in Ottawa and Atlanta, Mari獺n moved on to Pittsburgh in 2008, where he helped lead the Penguins to the Stanley Cup Final against Detroit, a series his team lost. Prioritizing winning over dollars, Hossa signed with the Red Wings the following season, where he again reached the Final only to find heartbreak again, improbably against the team he had just left, the Penguins. It seemed that perhaps he would never raise Lord Stanley's Cup above his head. But Hossa persevered, refusing to give in. In 2009, he signed with the Chicago Blackhawks, and played a key role in the team's dynastic run the following decade, winning championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Then, yet another obstacle appeared in his path: an unusual and debilitating skin condition that compelled him to retire years before he'd planned. In this inspiring and entertaining autobiography, Hossa brings readers inside the dressing room, onto the celebratory team plane, and alongside one of hockey's greatest stars as he makes the biggest decisions of his career. Also featuring photos from Hossa's personal collection, this is an essential read for all hockey fans.
Hurley's Heroes
From rock bottom to national champions--this is the blueprint behind Dan Hurley's UConn resurgence. The UConn men's basketball program had won three national championships in a span of fifteen years, its most recent just four years earlier. But by 2018, the program was in shambles. The Huskies had finished with a losing record in consecutive seasons for the first time in nearly forty years. It had suffered a string of embarrassing, blowout losses, a mass wave of transfers out of the program and, worst of all, was embroiled in scandal involving recruiting and other violations. Enter Dan Hurley. A former Big East player and member of one of basketball's most famous families, Hurley had performed impressive renovation projects at his three previous stops, St. Benedict's Prep, Wagner College, and the University of Rhode Island. Now, Hurley was hired to clean up the mess at UConn and return it to past glories. He had a plan, a blueprint: recruit high-character, high-level kids and by his fifth season, he had turned the Huskies into national champions, the program's fifth title in twenty-four years. How has Hurley done it? Dogged recruiting. Intense practices. An eleven-month season, with players on campus all summer. And most importantly, establishing a culture at UConn that transcends whatever talent is on the floor and makes his teams as "connected" as any in the country. In Hurley's Heroes, award-winning UConn beat writer David Borges tells the inside story of a driven coach and his team's return to their rightful place among the NCAA's elite.
From Kenilworth to Glory
From Kenilworth to Glory: The Unstoppable Rise of Luton Town FC chronicles the incredible journey of a football club that has captured the hearts of its supporters through sheer determination and resilience. This book explores Luton Town FC's humble beginnings at Kenilworth Road and charts its rise through the ranks to achieve glory on the national and international stages.The narrative delves into the key moments and pivotal matches that defined the club's history, highlighting the contributions of local talent and the unwavering support of its passionate fanbase. The book also addresses the challenges and setbacks the club faced, including financial troubles and controversial leadership, and how it overcame these obstacles to emerge stronger.More than just a sports story, From Kenilworth to Glory is a testament to the power of community, unity, and perseverance. It provides an inspiring account of how Luton Town FC became a symbol of hope and pride for its city, showcasing the indomitable spirit that drives the club forward. This book is a must-read for football enthusiasts and anyone who believes in the transformative power of determination and teamwork.
The Physics and Biomechanics of Golf
'The Physics and Biomechanics of Golf' introduces a strictly unified approach to golf coaching and learning. The golf swing is very much regarded here as a single motion, whereby static analysis and positional rehearsal take a back seat to dynamics, forces and kinematics.Providing a comprehensive overview and theoretical framework of modern science based golf theory, coaching and academic research. Key topics covered include maximising power through optimisation of torque, ground reaction forces, leverage, the X-factor. The three distinct modalities of optimising smash factor for woods, irons and wedges are detailed, along with an indepth look at the wedge & pitching games, including technique, intent and outcome.This unique golf book outlines a biomechanics approach to analysing modern golf theory, distills empirical investigation into three key fundamentals giving the reader means by which to analyse their own golf mechanics and appropriate necessary golf swing adjustments necessary for maximal gains & efficiencies.
Swing with Precision Mastering Golf from Green to Tee
"Swing with Precision" delves into the comprehensive journey of mastering golf beyond just the physical swing. It highlights the intricate balance of mental toughness, physical fitness, strategic thinking, and social connectivity that golf offers. Through engaging stories, practical advice, and motivational insights, the book encourages golfers of all levels to see the game as a path to personal growth, resilience, and lifelong enjoyment. Readers will discover techniques to improve their game, fitness routines tailored to golf, and strategies for better course management. They will be inspired by stories of adaptive golfers who overcome challenges and find joy in the game. Additionally, the book sheds light on living the golf lifestyle, from travel adventures to integrating regular practice into daily life, all while building meaningful connections with fellow golfers. In essence, "Swing with Precision" is a celebration of golf as a transformative journey that enriches lives, builds character, and fosters enduring friendships, all centered around the shared love for the game.
World Soccer Records 2026
The best-selling collection of soccer facts, stats and stories is back for another fantastic new edition! World Soccer Records 2026 offers lively, fun and fascinating facts and stats from the world of international soccer. Focusing on all the major world and continental tournaments, national team records, exceptional matches and the stars who made it all possible, this exhaustively researched annual tells the stories of these key moments and the players and teams behind them. This new edition includes updated stats and facts for all recent major tournaments, awards and international teams. You'll also find the latest record-breaking achievements of more than 35 featured nations from around the world, including a sidebar with key stats, as well as updates and records for all the other FIFA members.
The Art of Tennis
"A masterpiece."--L. Jon Wertheim, author of Glory Days A celebration of the cultural influence of tennis that paved the way for the sport we love today. In its foundational years, tennis inspired paintings, ballets, music, fiction, poetry, theatre, and even clothing design. This book presents riveting exemplars from all the arts while also lovingly portraying the game of tennis as an art form of its own. Tennis is a game of precision, timing, athleticism, strategy, and, sometimes, a little luck. Small wonder this sport attracts so many players and fans--including artists and writers who see something transcendent in hitting a ball with a racket over a net and inside a rectangular field. As Weber writes, "The thrill of the thwack of the racquet and the perpetual state of suspense about what is coming next appeals to individuals from every walk of life....It has prompted the creation of sublime architecture and moved composers of music in wonderful new directions; it has seeded literary fantasy and been the source of hilarious cartoons. It has also, in fabulous ways, enabled human beings to demonstrate some of their most admirable qualities: courage, tenacity, generosity of heart." This book explores the charisma and spell the sport cast on the likes of Nabokov, Coco Chanel, Caravaggio, and Bonnard. And, of course, there is much about the players who gave the sport, in its early years, its special magic. Weber, best known for art world biographies, has been a lifelong tennis player and takes us through his own personal relationship with the sport: from his college-age summers in the 1960s working at New Hampshire's Tamarack Tennis Camp to a pickup game on a court in Guangzhou, China where he was struck, yet again, that tennis is its own language, understood by all who play it. Whether a reader is fluent in the language of tennis or just admires it as an outsider, The Art of Tennis will delight all lovers of the game.
A Season on the Drink
Based on the remarkable true story of personal redemption and the power of community.A broken team. A battle for dignity. A summer of softball that united them against the odds.Marty's fast-pitch softball team is far from typical. He and his unlikely teammates represent the Residence, a haven for chronic alcoholics--where forgotten men, written off by society, drown in their addictions. Yet they find something worth fighting for on a dusty Minnesota softball diamond: their dignity.As the men square off in a rec league against polished corporate teams with everything going for them, Marty and his gang must battle their inner demons and society's prejudices on an extraordinary path to redemption. The teammates form a fragile bond as they discover that their magical season offers more than just wins and losses--it's a chance to reclaim their identities and find purpose in a world that has long forgotten them.Based on a true story, A Season on the Drink chronicles this raw, unforgettable tale of redemption. Pat Harris masterfully weaves together themes of addiction, friendship, and resilience in this gripping narrative that transcends traditional sports literature. Through intimate portraits of the residents, the story reveals the transformative power of community and the unexpected joy found in life's darkest corners.Can the spirit of sports triumph over the crushing weight of addiction? As the season unfolds, these men discover that sometimes the greatest victories happen far from the scoreboard, in the quiet moments between pitches, where hope takes root and friendship blooms.
Brooklyn Dodgers Transactions, 1890-1957
Baseball transactions--trades, sales, purchases, free agents coming or leaving--have always had the ability to stir the interest and passion of fans. Whether it is the purchase or sale of a veteran star during the heat of a pennant race, a multi-player trade made during the dead of winter, or the offseason scramble for desirable free agents, player transactions engender more interest and heated debate among fans than almost any other aspect of the game. Baseball fans love trades; they love to hear about them, to read about them, and to talk about them. They even love those that are rumored but don't get made. This book covers the transactions of the Brooklyn Dodgers, one of the game's most storied teams, from their 1890 entry into the National League until their 1957 move to Los Angeles. For significant transactions, players and the deal are placed in historical perspective, covering why the Dodgers and the other team(s) involved made the exchange; the expectations the owners, general managers, and managers of the respective teams had for their new players; and, for most, what the players involved thought about their old and new teams. The history of the Brooklyn Dodgers trades represents a microcosm of the history of baseball, and that history is covered here in fine detail.
The Proper Golfing Handbook
Offers comprehensive guidance for golfers of all levels, from beginners to experts, with tips on technique, mindset, and injury prevention.The Proper Golfing Handbook uses words, photos and videos to explain all the key skills. The idea is to understand the theory first, then see it in action. This is a book that can be taken with you onto the golf course in your golf bag for when your game needs that instant fix.If you are a complete beginner the early chapters give a firm base on which to build your game: grip, stance, set-up, and a relaxed swing. These are the foundations to which you must return before each shot, and are the basis for the effortless power we all want.If you are an improver the book acts as your reset. It explains how to make all the different types of shot, and how to get out of trouble. And since golf is the ultimate psychological game it helps you find a more positive and realistic mindset. In short, The Proper Golfing Handbook shows how to fix your game for good.If you are an experienced golfer wanting to take your game to a new level, help is at hand. Use The Proper Golfing Handbook to check the basics, then learn how to fade and draw the ball, make high and low shots, and play from poor or sloping lies. It will also help you score better by managing the course.If you are a senior golfer Julian Mellor shows how to prepare your body for golf using exercises and good warm-up routines. He teaches a realistic swing for life, one that will avoid injury but still deliver power and accuracy.All golfers will appreciate the final chapter on common faults and how to fix them, and particularly how to reset mid-round if you 'lose it'.Read on, relax, get out of your own way and let the magic happen. Proper golfing is within your grasp!
The Encyclopedia of Minor League Baseball
When the pandemic hit in early 2020, baseball's minor leagues cancelled their seasons. A few independent leagues tried abbreviated schedules, but all Major League affiliates shut down--for the first time in more than 120 years. Since then, Major League Baseball has taken over governance of the minors, and leagues and teams have been eliminated. In its fourth and final edition, this book gives a complete accounting of the minor leagues as they were known from the late 19th century through 2019.
The Mayfly Boys
A nostalgic coming-of-age story set in the small river town of Mayfly, Missouri in the early 1960s, woven into a compelling mystery played out along the Mississippi River and the steep bluffs overlooking it. Enter the world of the Mayfly Boys-echoes of Mark Twain a century later.In the summer of 1963, twelve-year-old Jamie Fletcher, hungering for fame, conceives an ambitious plan to become the greatest basketball player in Mayfly's history. Raised in a strict Catholic family, young Jamie struggles to overcome numerous roadblocks thrown up by his parents, the nuns, and his arrogant pastor.Jamie struggles mightily to avoid eternal damnation due to certain "impure thoughts," mortal sins capable of sending him to hell at any moment "with one unlucky lightning strike." As he struggles with his adolescent yearnings, he regularly confesses his sins to his pastor, whom Jamie hates, particularly because of his dogmatic insistence that dogs can't go to Heaven.Following a tragedy, Jamie decides with the help of his friends, his brothers, and his faithful dog, Prince, to investigate their pastor. The boys uncover dangerous secrets, balancing a risky investigation with daily chores, while working simultaneously on basketball, their prayer lives and their cursing expertise.An enjoyable and satisfying immersion into life in the early 1960s, showcasing the marvels of a Catholic grade school, saving Pagan Babies, help from colorful locals, the terrors of river pirates and graveyards, the thrill of athletic excellence, the value of parenting, the yearning of young love, and the grace of manners as they were practiced not so very long ago.Humorously layered with a tongue-in-cheek examination of moral, theological and doctrinal issues of interest to all American Catholics and persons of faith.
When Minor League Baseball Almost Went Bust
When Minor League Baseball Almost WentBust is about the epic transformation the minor leagues underwent from the end of World War II to the onset of America's space race with the Soviet Union. By 1949, the minors' boom would reach its peak, with 59 leagues and 448 teams, but their downfall was just around the corner. This book, three years in the making, with contributions from 39 SABR members, contains stories about minor-league teams, individuals, and leagues that thrived, struggled, and mostly went defunct, because of changing cultural and economic trends beyond their controlfrom 1946 through 1963. The fabled Newark Bears of the International League announced after the 1949 season that they would leave New Jersey for Springfield, Massachusetts, because of poor attendance. This was a sign of things to come as fans in medium-sized cities began fleeing to the suburbs. Few minor-league teams made money during this era. Most teams traveled by bus, and owners, scrimping and saving, compromised the safety of their players by buying buses from their second or third owners, some beyond their normal life span. There were many reports of carbon monoxide poisonings and brake malfunctions. Tragic accidents in 1946 and 1948 claimed the lives of 14 players.There were bright spots and historic feats, of course. Jackie Robinson would integrate an affiliated team for the first time when he played for the Montreal Royals in 1946. Phenom Ron Necciai, playing for Bristol of the Appalachian League, accomplished a pitching feat on May 21, 1952, that most likely will never be challenged-pitching a nine-inning no-hitter in which he struck out all 27 batters. Unfortunately for Necciai, his arm went dead the next season, ending his career.By 1963, hundreds of minor-league teams had folded and minor-league baseball was at a critical crossroads. The American and National Leagues couldn't afford to let such a key resource for player development disappear. After extensive meetings, the AL and NL introduced a Player Development plan in which each major-league team would provide and pay the salaries of a full player and coaching roster to at least five minor-league teams. This stabilized the minors and set the way the minors would operate for the rest of the twentieth century and until 2020.
A Giant Among Giants
Willie McCovey, known as "Stretch," played Major League Baseball from 1959 to 1980, most notably as a member of the San Francisco Giants for nineteen seasons. A fearsome left-handed power hitter, McCovey ranked second only to Babe Ruth in career home runs among left-handed batters and tied for eighth overall with Ted Williams at the time of his retirement. He was a six-time All-Star, three-time National League home run champion, and 1969 league MVP, and he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1986 in his first year of eligibility. Known as a dead-pull line drive hitter, McCovey was called "the scariest hitter in baseball" by pitcher Bob Gibson. Born in Mobile, Alabama, McCovey encountered daunting hurdles, such as Jim Crow laws that prevented him from playing organized ball as a youth and playing for Major League managers such as Tom Sheehan and Alvin Dark, who took a dim view of his abilities. But neither that nor other difficulties on the field--the platooning, the slights, the unrelenting injuries--seemed to affect McCovey, as he remained grateful to be playing baseball. McCovey was the most treasured Bay Area icon of all, a humble, approachable superstar who earned the admiration of seemingly everyone he encountered. McCovey's life wasn't measured in his home run and RBI totals, though those were impressive. His greatest significance lay in the warmth and respect he extended and which others reciprocated. These elements elevated McCovey to a pantheon where relatively few athletes reside. He remains synonymous with not just the team he ennobled but also the city he represented. In A Giant among Giants, the first biography of McCovey, who passed away in 2018 at the age of eighty, Chris Haft tells the story of one of baseball's best hitters and most-beloved players.
50 Greatest Players in Cincinnati Reds History
In The 50 Greatest Players in Cincinnati Reds History, sports historian Robert W. Cohen examines the careers of the fifty men who made the greatest impact on one of Major League Baseball's oldest and most iconic franchises.
The Sport Mega-Events of the 2020s
This book explores various social, cultural, political and economic issues through the lenses of various sport mega-events in the twenty-first century, including the Olympic Games, and the World Cup and European Championships in football. In a time where sport mega-events are closely followed by controversies, legacy discourses and questions of their governance, the chapters within this book showcase why sport mega-events continue to ignite important questions for scholars, commentators, fans and sport and political authorities.By covering various topics emerging around sport mega-events such as physical activity, legacies, rhetoric, media coverage, environmental impacts, diplomacy and spectators' experiences, this book breaks new ground as it considers a range of longstanding and emerging socio-political issues relating broadly to the staging of spectacular sport mega-events in the present-day.This is a fascinating reading for students and researchers situated in sociology, sport management, event management, political science, sport studies, sport business, urban studies and leisure studies. The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of Sport in Society.
Five Gallon Bucket
When Jack was the basketball coach in Elk City during his second year (1966-67), he received the Coach of the Year award in Western Oklahoma. Jack loved basketball, but he wasn't always good at it. In fourth grade, he made his first attempt at a free throw and failed. For his birthday, he asked for a basketball. He realized he didn't have a basket when he shot outside.Out in the garage was an old rusty 5-gallon bucket-back then, they were made of metal, short and wide. Jack quickly cut out the bottom with a chisel and hammer, creating a basket, and the rest is history.Basketball was in his bones and his dreams. He played in college at Pittsburg State University. At 5'11 3/4" tall, Jack was told he had the skills but not the height to play pro basketball. Instead, he pursued coaching and became a high school basketball coach.In his short story, Five Gallon Bucket, Jack shares his experiences and thoughts on the sport, particularly from the lens of a basketball coach. His endearing musings give basketball lovers a glimpse into this retired coach's story of how the five-gallon bucket gave him purpose.
Mind Over Muscle
"Mind Over Muscle: Unleashing the Hidden Power of Young Athletes" offers a comprehensive exploration of the critical connection between developmental psychology and sports, guiding parents, coaches, and young athletes through the intricate landscape of growth and competition. Drawing on foundational theories such as Piaget's cognitive development and Erikson's social-emotional framework, this book presents a view into the experiences that shape youth athletes-where intrinsic motivation fosters genuine passion, and self-efficacy becomes vital for overcoming challenges. Through relatable stories of young athletes like Sarah, Alex, and Ella, readers will uncover the profound influence of parental support, the significance of team dynamics, and the necessity of resilience in the face of adversity. Each chapter outlines practical strategies to cultivate a balanced approach to competition that prioritizes personal growth and emotional well-being, equipping young athletes not just for success in their sport, but for life beyond the confines of the playing field. Empowering and insightful, this book serves as an essential resource for those dedicated to nurturing the next generation of athletes with a focus on holistic development and lifelong joy in sports.
Jude Bellingham
Every new generation of footballers produces a talent who transcends all others, shining the brightest on the biggest of stages and Bellingham is that player. A Champions League winner and La Liga champion with Real Madrid before his 21st birthday, Jude Bellingham is a player with the footballing world at his feet and a growing, global army of admirers. His seemingly effortless style on the pitch belies his inner steel and few players have ever made such an impact on the beautiful game in such a ridiculously short space of time. The young, outrageously gifted midfielder has come a long way since he cut his teeth as a 16-year-old in the second tier in England with Birmingham City. His three years in the German top flight with Borussia Dortmund that followed only underlined his star status and since his arrival at the Bernab矇u, Bellingham has proved he is already a fully-fledged member of the football elite. Barely 17 when he was first capped by England, he is a talisman for the Three Lions despite his age and it is now simply a question of when rather than if he inherits the coveted captain's armband and leads his country.
Foul Play
Football has an integrity problem. Whether it is the reckless behaviour of players on or off the pitch, television commentators bad-mouthing decisions during the game, or corrupt governance of the sport, football has a tarnished reputation. Big money means big public interest and an even bigger responsibility to make it a sport that is inclusive, professional and, at the very least, law-abiding. Dan Hough puts the game under scrutiny to find out why football has become the benchmark for bad behaviour in sport. He examines the role of players, governing bodies, managers and owners, referees, pundits and fans to show how they have all contributed to the game's failings and how all have a part to play in improving its integrity. Football matters and because it matters it needs fixing.
The Cricketers of 1945
The Cricketers of 1945 is the compelling, poignant, and above all human, story of the reawakening of English cricket in the immediate aftermath of the world's most destructive war.The book brings to life the summer's Victory Tests, played on home soil between England and Australia, as well as the personal stories of the players and their families, plus those of some of the hundreds of thousands of spectators who flocked to the matches to celebrate the return of something approaching normal life after the ordeal and sacrifice of the war years.This vivid account is illuminated by fresh archival research, encompassing the diaries and personal letters of both cricketers and cricket lovers, giving the reader a strong sense of what it was like to be alive at this unique time as much of the world awoke, or was still awakening, from the nightmare ordeal of the long years of conflict.
Wampus Cat Basketball History
Former Leesville High School Principal Billy Crawford and 1981 graduate Charles Owen have pieced together the first-ever history of Leesville Wampus Cat Basketball. The 200+ page book is an unofficial but well-detailed chronicle of the boys' and girls' t basketball teams from Leesville High School in Leesville, Louisiana. The book details every season back to 1950, and includes win/loss records, All-District and All-State selections, playoff appearances and other achievements. The "History of Wampus Cat Basketball" is an unofficial history and is the first of its kind in Vernon Parish and one of the first in the State of Louisiana. Owen and Crawford provide special sections on each head coach and provide a narrative for each season. The book is filled with pictures of players, coaches, fans and captures the greatest moments of Wampus Cat basketball. A special section in the book is dedicated to the 2001 Boys' State Championship team, coached by Grant Westerchil led by star Eric Woods. Other LHS stars like Nikita Wilson, Richard Reese, Richard Schwartz, Darnell Bradley, Shonte Kennedy, Sheronda Bowers, Faye Jean and Shirley Cavanaugh are highlighted for their individual and team accomplishments. Coaching greats like Billy Bennett, Joe Sowells and Hub Jordan are also highlighted for their achievements on the floor. This book is a great "coffee table" book for any high school basketball fan. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to Leesville High School basketball.
Wampus Cat Basketball History
Former Leesville High School Principal Billy Crawford and 1981 graduate Charles Owen have pieced together the first-ever history of Leesville Wampus Cat Basketball. The 200+ page book is an unofficial but well-detailed chronicle of the boys' and girls' t basketball teams from Leesville High School in Leesville, Louisiana. The book details every season back to 1950, and includes win/loss records, All-District and All-State selections, playoff appearances and other achievements. The "History of Wampus Cat Basketball" is an unofficial history and is the first of its kind in Vernon Parish and one of the first in the State of Louisiana. Owen and Crawford provide special sections on each head coach and provide a narrative for each season. The book is filled with pictures of players, coaches, fans and captures the greatest moments of Wampus Cat basketball. A special section in the book is dedicated to the 2001 Boys' State Championship team, coached by Grant Westerchil led by star Eric Woods. Other LHS stars like Nikita Wilson, Richard Reese, Richard Schwartz, Darnell Bradley, Shonte Kennedy, Sheronda Bowers, Faye Jean and Shirley Cavanaugh are highlighted for their individual and team accomplishments. Coaching greats like Billy Bennett, Joe Sowells and Hub Jordan are also highlighted for their achievements on the floor. This book is a great "coffee table" book for any high school basketball fan. All proceeds from the sale of the book go to Leesville High School basketball.
Believe
The remarkable story of the footballer who battled against the odds to achieve his dreams - only to see his country having to fight to survive after the shocking invasion of Ukraine. A fan favourite at Arsenal and previously at Manchester City, Oleksandr Zinchenko has been lighting up the Premier League with his fearless performances for many years. But his success has not come without its challenges. Having begun his career as a teenager at Shakhtar Donetsk, Zinchenko played amateur football when no club would sign him. But after he joined Manchester City in 2016 he would go on to experience exhilarating career highs, with four league titles in six years, before moving to Arsenal where he has played an integral part in their challenge for honours. He has shown heroism of a very different kind through his extraordinary campaigning in support of his homeland during the ongoing war. After the invasion of Ukraine, he decided he could make the greatest difference by using his platform to spread awareness and raise money to support his country. Written with candour and bravery, Believe is no ordinary tale of success on the pitch, but one of unwavering strength and integrity, tempered by sadness and anger. It provides unique insights into the methods of Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta and the machinations of elite football teams. It is the story of a selfless man who cares deeply for his homeland's welfare, and always tries to deliver his best on and off the field.
American Kings
Pull back the curtain on the most powerful position in all of sports. The New York Times bestselling author of It's Better to be Feared examines football's QB lifecycle: high school, college, the NFL, retirement--and all that comes with it. "A MUST BUY" -- New York Times / The Athletic A Boston Globe and NPR pick for Best Books of 2025 New York Book Festival - General Nonfiction Winner *** The Instant New York Times bestseller *** "An instant classic--not just a great sports book but a great cultural history."--Jonathan Eig, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of King: A LifeThe quarterback: the American equivalent of royalty, long glamorized, mythologized, and worshipped. Still, long before the Super Bowl trophies, massive contracts, brand deals, and millions of social media followers comes the dream. From the backyard to Pop Warner, from high school to college, from the NFL to the Hall of Fame, becoming the country's ultimate idol requires single-minded focus while navigating a maze of bad breaks, insecurities, jealousy, pressure, and fame. Long known as the outsider's guide into this elite world, Seth Wickersham's fresh reporting goes deep into the quarterback journey, measuring the distance between what the men who have traveled it expected and what they found at the end of the road. Through unprecedented access into the lives of dozens of quarterbacks and generational greats such as Johnny Unitas, John Elway, Peyton Manning, Warren Moon, Steve Young, and others, as well as those figures striving to be remembered, like Caleb Williams and Arch Manning, Wickersham reveals how this one position has become emblematic of success in American life. As an inside look into a uniquely American job and a uniquely American obsession with football, American Kings is a must-read for sports fans and anyone who wants to understand what the price of ambition tells us about the quest for achievement and status.
On the Road to Passing Better!
"Mastering the Pass" is a comprehensive guide designed specifically for young volleyball players who want to excel in the fundamental skill of passing. This book breaks down the essential techniques of passing, providing step-by-step instructions, visual aids, and expert tips to help players develop accuracy, control, and confidence on the court. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this book covers everything from proper hand positioning and footwork to advanced drills and game strategies. Written by experienced coaches and players, "Mastering the Pass" is an invaluable resource for any young athlete aiming to become a proficient and reliable passer in volleyball."
On the Road to being a Better Setter
On the Road to Being a Better Setter is a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of setting in volleyball, from basic techniques to advanced strategies. Suitable for all skill levels, this book provides practical exercises that enhance the setter's understanding and proficiency. It includes insightful tips and tricks gathered from experienced setters, offering valuable insights that help setters improve their craft and enjoy the game more. By exploring this book, setters will discover advanced strategies and creative approaches to setting, pushing the boundaries of their creativity and innovation. This will lead to the development of unique and memorable techniques, making this book an essential resource for any setter looking to elevate their game.
The Football Battalion
WESTMINSTER BOOK AWARD WINNER - Best Non-Fiction or Fiction by a Parliamentarian'An extraordinary story' - David Williamson, Chief Political Commentator at the Daily Express 'Lovely book ... a lot of unknown stories in there' - Paul Hawksbee, talkSPORT 'Excellent... a compelling analysis, drawing on social, political and military history, eye-opening but enlivened throughout by his keen eye for the humorous and hypocritical' - When Saturday ComesTHE POIGNANT STORY OF HOW PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLERS WENT TO WAR 1914. Britain is slowly becoming football-obsessed: players are becoming household names, attendance is increasing and George V attends the FA Cup Final in May. Then the war breaks out. In this fascinating work, equal parts footballing and military history, Christopher Evans explores how, once the war began, footballers were put under immense pressure to sign up, resulting in the formation of Football Battalions in England and Scotland. He recounts the wartime exploits of the leading footballers of the day. Some would return to leave their mark on the game; some would fade into obscurity; and some would never make it back. Among them are Vivian Woodward, an Olympic gold medallist and football's first superstar; Frank Buckley, who would emerge from the war a hero and go on to redefine the role of a football manager; and Walter Tull, Tottenham and Northampton hero, who faced racism both on the football field and battlefield before becoming the first Black man to win a commission and command a unit in the British Army. Drawing on archival material, this is a captivating exploration of the elite footballers who went to war.
Victory in Australia
DAILY TELEGRAPH AND MAIL ON SUNDAY SPORTS BOOKS OF THE YEAR 'Meticulously researched and (for any cricket fan) unputdownable... splendidly atmospheric' - THE TIMES 'A wonderful book... an excellent re-telling.' - MIKE ATHERTON 'A masterpiece that sets the bar for blending cricket and social history' - NICK HOULT, THE DAILY TELEGRAPH THE DEFINITIVE ACCOUNT OF AN EPIC ASHES BATTLE The Ashes series of 1954-55 marked a watershed moment in the history of English cricket. Under the leadership of Len Hutton, the national team's first professional captain, one of the greatest group of players ever to represent England won an Ashes series in Australia for the first time in more than 20 years. It is a feat that has been repeated only four times in more than 70 years since. But Hutton's men had to overcome the additional obstacle of losing heavily in the first Test - only one England team has managed to win an overseas Ashes series after such a monumental setback. The names of the cricketers who locked horns in 1954-55 resonate down the decades - Hutton's team included Denis Compton, Frank Tyson, Brian Statham, Trevor Bailey, Godfrey Evans, Peter May and Colin Cowdrey. Among their Australian opponents were Ray Lindwall, Keith Miller, Neil Harvey and Richie Benaud. In the 1950s, these players were not just elite sportsmen, they were household names. An Ashes series for the ages is brought thrillingly to life in this momentous slice of sporting and social history.
Strength Training for Lacrosse
The game of lacrosse requires athletes to be quick, agile, and powerful. Resistance training contributes significantly to the development of speed, agility, endurance, and strength, ultimately making a lacrosse athlete more formidable on the field. Developed with the expertise of the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), Strength Training for Lacrosse provides an overarching biomechanical analysis of lacrosse and specific analyses of the physical demands of each position: defenders, midfielders, attackers, and goalies. Using these analyses, you can design an effective training program that translates to performance on the field. You will also find the following: 10 detailed protocols to test strength, power, speed, agility, and high-intensity endurance capacity 13 total body resistance exercises with 8 variations 16 lower body exercises with 10 variations 29 upper body exercises with 21 variations 20 anatomical core exercises with 19 variations 53 sample programs for off-season, preseason, in-season, and postseason resistance training For each exercise, you will find a series of photos and a detailed list of primary muscles trained, beginning position and movement phases, breathing guidelines, modifications and variations, and coaching tips. You'll also gain a deeper understanding of what muscles are involved in each exercise so you can develop a complete and targeted resistance training program. Backed by the NSCA and the knowledge and experience of individuals who have years of experience as strength and conditioning professionals for lacrosse, Strength Training for Lacrosse is the authoritative resource for creating lacrosse-specific resistance training programs. Earn continuing education credits/units! A continuing education exam that uses this book is also available. It may be purchased separately or as part of a package that includes both the book and exam.
