History of sport Books
Vision Sports Publishing Ltd The Biography of Leeds: The Story of the Whites
Book SynopsisAn affectionate, insightful portrait of the club beloved by millions of fans around the world.
£17.00
Birlinn General Three Weeks, Eight Seconds: The Epic Tour de
Book SynopsisThe 1989 Tour de France is arguably the greatest ever. It saw American rider Greg LeMond overturn a 50-second deficit to France's Laurent Fignon on the final stage on the Champs Elysees to snatch the title by a mere eight seconds. After three weeks and more than 2,000 miles in the saddle, these few seconds remain the smallest margin of victory in the race's 100+ year history.But as dramatic as that Sunday afternoon on the streets of Paris was, the race wasn't just about that one time-trial. During the previous fortnight, the leader's yellow jersey had swapped back and forth between LeMond and Fignon in a titanic struggle for supremacy, a battle with more twists and turns than the maziest Alpine mountain pass. At no point during the entire three weeks were LeMond and Fignon separated by more than 53 seconds.In Three Weeks, Eight Seconds, Nige Tassell brings one of cycling's most astonishing stories to life, examining that extraordinary race in all its multi-faceted glory with fresh interviews and new perspectives and laying bare that towering heights of adrenaline, agony, excitement, torment and triumph that it produced.
£9.49
Birlinn General The Greatest Show on Earth: The Inside Story of
Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Sunday Times Football Book of the Year 2022 One of the Financial Times Top 5 Best Sports Books of the Year The 1970 World Cup is widely regarded as the greatest ever staged, with more goals per game than any World Cup since. But more than just the proliferation of goals was the quality of the overall football, as some of the finest teams ever to represent the likes of West Germany, Peru, Italy and England came together for a tilt at the world title. But at the heart of the tournament were Brazil; captained by Carlos Alberto and featuring legends like Pelé, Gérson, Jairzinho, Rivellino and Tostão, the 1970 Seleção are often cited as the greatest-ever World Cup team. Using brand new interviews alongside painstaking archival research, Andrew Downie charts each stage of the tournament, from the preparations to the final, telling a host of remarkable stories in the players’ own words. The result is an immediate, insightful and compelling narrative that paints a unique portrait of an extraordinary few weeks when football hit peaks it has seldom reached since. This is Mexico 1970. Welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth.Trade Review'An account of arguably the best football World Cup, told almost entirely in quotes from the men who played in it' * Financial Times, FT Best Books of the Year *'the voices in this charming book—each one an aging football star’s—are eloquent to a man' -- Tunku Varadarajan * The Wall Street Journal *'For any football nurd out there it is fascinating because you don’t only speak about the beautiful final between Brazil and Italy, you go for the first round matches too. It is a really, really interesting read…' * Monocle Daily *'Phenomenal – a terrific read' -- Grant Wahl
£16.19
Quiller Publishing Ltd Badminton Horse Trials at 75
Book SynopsisIn 1949, the 10th Duke of Beaufort started Badminton Horse Trials with the idea of better preparing British riders for the Olympic Games after a disastrous showing on home ground the year before. His legacy is the world's oldest and most prestigious horse trials, which has captured the imagination of riders worldwide and in 2024 celebrates its seventy-fifth anniversary.Badminton is still an Olympic proving ground as well as a captivating place where dreams can be made or shattered, and the one all riders want to win. The centrepiece remains the cross-country course, a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators and is an imposing challenge for riders, no matter how experienced they are, in an egalitarian sport in which men and women compete on equal terms and the amateur can take on the Olympic gold medallist.This superbly illustrated book celebrates those riders and their horses, from Sheila Willcox's hattrick in the 1950s to New Zealander Mark Todd who came out of retirement to win
£36.00
Tangent Books Freedom Through Football: The Story of the Easton
Book Synopsis
£10.80
Nine Elms Books My Life on the Line: Everything you didn't know
Book SynopsisThey come out of the football stadium tunnel first, but all eyes are on the well-paid athletes behind them. No one pays the referee or the referee's assistants any attention - until they make a mistake. Then all hell breaks loose. They can't explain - or defend themselves against the crowd's abuse. Gavin Muge threads an entertaining personal football memoir together with his own attempts to scale the peak of the professional game as a match official. His football life has led to encounters with a cast of stars from Gary Lineker to Paul Gascoigne, Arsene Wenger and Roy Keane. He officiated at the infamous Riot of Upton Park in 2009 and has witnessed many examples of the darker side of the game. Gavin has also shared the excitement and the pain of the average football supporter and now has the experience to try to make sense of it all in My Life on the Line. See if you agree with him! And pit your knowledge against Gavin's with the book's Chapter Challenges and his Quiz.Table of ContentsIntroduction PART 1 A FOOTBALL SELF-PORTRAIT. Chapter 1: Hatters' Tea Party Me, Eric Morecambe and a Lifelong Commitment to Luton Town FC Chapter 2: Playing Peak Me, Gary Lineker and the Player of the Year Award Chapter 3: Pitch Battles Me, Millwall and the Way it was Then Chapter 4: Maturity Me, Gazza and Marriage PART 2 SIDELINE OR FRONT LINE? Chapter 5: Earning My Stripes Rungs on the Ladder Chapter 6: Match Day 'Arsene Wenger's having a party/Bring your vodka and your Charlie' Chapter 7: "Look at the Bizzies" The Riot of Upton Park, Part 1 Chapter 8: "If we leave, we won't be coming back" The Riot of Upton Park, Part 2 PART 3 WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE? Chapter 9: No Time to be Star Struck Me, Roy Keane, Paulo Di Canio & a Bollocking from Mark Noble Chapter 10: The Long and Winding Road Nearly There Chapter 11: The Best Party Reflections on a Career PART 4 THE UNOFFICIAL GUIDE TO LIFE AS A FOOTBALL OFFICIAL. Chapter 12: 1863 and All That The Laws of the Game and how we got them Chapter 13: So You Want to be a Referee's Assistant A Few Insights Chapter 14: We Need to Talk About VAR Cure-All or Confusion? PART 5 THE WIDER VIEW. Chapter 15: Match Officials in World Cup History The Hand of God, etc Chapter 16: Where are We Now and Where Are we Going? A Brighter Future with some changes to the Game Chapter 17: Match Fixing & the Power of Money Stuff Happens PART 6 EXTRA TIME. Chapter 18: Gavin's Football Quiz Answers at the Back Chapter 19: Fun Stuff Jokes, Quotes and Anecdotes Chapter 20: Poetry in Motion That Goal APPENDIX. Being a Match Official - The Details Links to YouTube Clips Bibliography Acknowledgements Author profiles
£9.49
Sandstone Press Ltd Running Hard: The Story of a Rivalry
Book SynopsisFor one brilliant season in 1983 the sport of fell running was dominated by the two huge talents of John Wild and Kenny Stuart. Wild was an incomer to the sport from road running and track. Stuart was born to the fells, but an outcast because of his move from professional to amateur. Together they destroyed the record book, only determining who was top by a few seconds in the last race of the season. Running Hard is the story of that season, and an inside, intimate look at the two men by Steve Chilton, the author of It’s a Hill, Get Over It and The Round.Trade Review'An in-depth and inspirational account of the fierce rivalry between John Wild and Kenny Stuart, two of mountain running's finest-ever exponents. Steve Chilton explores the background, the characters and the head-to-head battle for the title of 1983 British Champion between these two ultra-hard men of the fells, and captures the unique spirit of running in its purest and most extreme form.'-Julian Goater, author of The Art of Running Faster; 'Running Hard is a funny, in depth insight into well-known and not so well known champions but, cleverly and importantly, also the characters behind these champions. It's these characters that bring the book alive and make you wish you were stood on the fells watching their battles in real life and then listening to their post-race banter afterwards.'-Nicky Spinks, double Bob Graham Round record holder; 'Recollections of races and post-race celebrations by such top fell runners as Jos Naylor, Billy Bland, Hugh Symonds, Jack Maitland and Malcolm Patterson are filled with insight and humour, and demonstrate the unique blend of intense rivalry and friendship that typifies fell running.'-Jeff Norman, Olympic marathoner and former Fell Runner of the Year; 'A fascinating book that paints a captivating picture of an exciting head to head race for the ultimate championship title. Steve's race reports are as edge-of-your-seat as a car-chase in a film; you'll be devouring the words and turning the pages fast. He brings to life a whole new world of fell-running history - a must-read for every off-road runner.'-Claire Maxted, editor of Trail Running magazine; 'There is something primeval about hill running: a simple test of man versus mountain. The sport is a modern-day survival of the fittest and in the 1983 hill running season, two men literally seemed to be running for their lives.'-Jonny Muir, author of Isles at the Edge of the Sea; 'Kenny Stuart and John Wild are two of the greatest ever fell runners, with records that still stand today. This meticulously researched book is a compelling and fascinating account of their lives, and their rivalry and friendship.'-Steve Birkinshaw, fastest person to complete the 214 Wainwrights in one round; 'Two great athletes changed the face of fell running forever. Picture John Wild, road racing professional and international track and cross country champion, and Kenny Stuart, champion fell runner and winner of many classic mountain races, duelling over the toughest of terrains and weather conditions. Read of their courage, mental toughness and strategies in a modern, but almost Boys Own, battle and decide for yourself who is Wilson of the Wizard and who the Tough of the Track.'-Steve Jones, former holder of World Best time for marathon;
£11.39
Bonnier Books Ltd F2: Galaxy of Football: Attack of the Football
Book SynopsisThe ultimate football adventure story from the world's greatest football duo, The F2When the evil Galaxico aliens steal the game of football from planet Earth, it's up to Jez and Billy (and the help of their trusty time machines) to assemble the greatest team to have ever played the beautiful game in the hope of stealing it back! From the 1958 World Cup Final, to the year 3000, The F2 travel through time and call upon some of heroes of footballs past, present and future to help in their quest to reinstate the joys of playing the game. With cameos from Pele, Steven Gerrard, Cristiano Ronaldo (and his granddaughter from the future, Julia Ronaldo!), this is a wonderful football story of good vs evil!
£13.49
Polaris Publishing Limited Cricket 2.0: Inside the T20 Revolution - WISDEN
Book SynopsisWISDEN BOOK OF THE YEAR 2020 Winner of The Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2020 Heartaches Cricket Book of the Year ‘Fascinating . . . essential reading’ – Scyld Berry ‘A fascinating book, essential for anyone who wishes to understand cricket’s new age’ – Alex Massie, Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack ‘An invaluable guide’ – Mike Atherton, The Times ‘excellent . . . both breezily engaging, and full of the format’s latest, best and nerdiest thinking’ – Gideon Haigh, The Australian ‘The century’s most original cricket book . . . An absorbing ride . . . some of their revelations come with the startling force of unexpected thunder on a still night’ – Suresh Menon, editor Wisden India Almanack Cricket 2.0 is the multi award-winning story of how an old, traditional game was revolutionised by a new format: Twenty20 cricket. The winner of the Wisden Almanack Book of the Year award, the Telegraph Sports Book Awards’ Cricket Book of the Year and selected as one of The Cricketer’s greatest cricket books of all time, Cricket 2.0 is an essential read both for Test and T20 cricket lovers alike, and all those interested in modern sport. Using exclusive interviews with over 80 leading players and coaches – including Jos Buttler, Ricky Ponting, Kieron Pollard, Eoin Morgan, Brendon McCullum and Rashid Khan – Tim Wigmore and Freddie Wilde chronicle this revolution with insight, forensic analysis and story-telling verve. In the process, they reveal how cricket has been transformed, both on and off the field. Told with vivid clarity and insight, this is the extraordinary and previously misunderstood story of Twenty20, how it is reshaping the sport – and what the future of cricket will look like. Readers will never watch a T20 game in quite the same way again. “For people that love cricket it’s really important to read it,” said Miles Jupp. “I found it extraordinary.” Trade Review'the first essential study of the T20 game, studded with analysis and big-name interviewees' * Wisden *'Wigmore and Wilde take us on an absorbing ride . . . well written, some of their revelations come with the startling force of unexpected thunder on a still night' -- Suresh Menon * The Hindu *'A lucid and thoughtful guide to the T20 phenomenon' * The New Statesman *'Cricket 2.0 is the definitive book for those looking to understand the T20 format – both on and off the pitch' -- Nasser Hussain'Cricket 2.0 takes about as long to read as the average T20 game, and might be time better spent than a good many of them, being both breezily engaging, and full of the format’s latest, best and nerdiest thinking' -- Gideon Haigh * The Australian *'A fascinating insight into how the newest format has impacted on the game at every level including Test cricket. Essential reading for T20 fans and traditional followers' -- Scyld Berry * The Telegraph *'An invaluable guide by two smart young writers to the story of T20 cricket, to the strategies that underpin it and to the players who have made the format' -- Mike Atherton * The Times *'T20 is here to stay and we should celebrate and cherish all the skills involved . . . it is only going to get bigger' -- Michael Vaughan * The Telegraph *'Tim and Freddie are the torchbearers of tomorrow, we must listen to them' -- Harsha Bhogle * CricBuzz *
£13.49
Polaris Publishing Limited Behind the Silver Fern: The All Blacks in their
Book SynopsisBehind the Silver Fern is a comprehensive history of rugby’s most famous yet enigmatic team, the New Zealand All Blacks, told by the men who have had the honour of wearing the iconic black jersey. From the legendary 1905 ‘Originals’ all the way through to the World Cup team of 2019, this unique history of the All Blacks lifts the lid on their experiences like never before. Thanks to exhaustive archival research and exclusive new material garnered from a vast array of interviews with players and coaches from across the decades, Tony Johnson and Lynn McConnell unveil the compelling truth of what it means to play for the most successful team in the history of sport – all the glory and the drama on the field, the great friendships off it, and the bonds of a brotherhood that extend far beyond the bright lights of a Test match. Absorbing and illuminating, this is the ultimate history of All Black rugby – told, definitively, by the men who have been there and done it.
£12.34
Polaris Publishing Limited Aberdeen European Nights: Stories from Aberdeen’s
Book SynopsisAberdeen have competed on the European stage since season 1967/68 and have enjoyed some epic encounters along the way, culminating in the club’s greatest ever victory – beating Real Madrid 2–1 in the 1983 Cup Winner's Cup final. Ally Begg charts a path through Aberdeen's storied history in Europe, vividly brining to life the most interesting, exciting, and unforgettable games by interviewing players from Aberdeen and their rivals and augmenting them with his own richly rendered memories. Aberdeen European Nights takes the reader on a nostalgic romp around the continent, crossing beyond the Iron Curtain and building a fortress at home at Pittodrie. Humorous, quirky and insightful, it is the perfect book for Aberdeen fans, young and old.
£16.19
Polaris Publishing Limited Going For 55: Rangers’ Journey Back to the Top of
Book SynopsisIn February 2012, Rangers faced an uncertain future and fans feared for their club as a Scottish institution was plunged into crisis. Just months later, Rangers would start out on what those supporters christened 'The Journey' as they attempted to make their way back to the top of the game from the Third Division. The years that followed were amongst the most tumultuous and controversial in the club's illustrious history as financial results became as important and noteworthy as football ones. Through it all, Rangers supporters followed near and far. In May 2021, Rangers completed their journey as Steven Gerrard's side were crowned Premiership champions. Going for 55 tells the story of the campaign, giving insight and offering analysis into how Gerrard revolutionised the club and restored Rangers to their place at the top of Scottish football. With interviews from the money men who funded the rebuilding job, the staff and players that made the dream a reality and those in the press that saw history being made, this is a sporting tale like no other.
£16.19
Polaris Publishing Limited Glory, Glory Man Utd: A Celebratory History
Book SynopsisFrom is genesis as Newton Heath LYR Football Club founded in 1878 all the way to the global sporting and commercial superpower that it is today, this is the history of Manchester United Football Club as you have never seen it before. Lifelong Red Devils’ fan Neville Moir has distilled this extraordinary history into an amusing, fascinating and easy to read anthology. This entertaining volume is an instructive, if sometimes irreverent – but always affectionate – guide to some of the groundbreaking firsts, controversies, innovations, characters, achievements and disasters that have shaped one the greatest sporting institutions on the planet. Whether an expert or a novice, this compendium is perfect for all Man United fans, young and old, around the world.
£13.49
Polaris Publishing Limited Behind the Dragon: Playing Rugby for Wales
Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE TELEGRAPH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 2020 - RUGBY BOOK OF THE YEAR This is a complete history of the Welsh rugby union team – told by the players themselves. Based on a combination of painstaking research into the early years of the Wales team to interviews with a vast array of Test match players and coaches from the Second World War to the present day, Ross Harries delves to the very heart of what it means to play for Wales, painting a unique and utterly compelling picture of the game in the only words that can truly do so: the players' own. Behind the Dragon lifts the lid on what it is to pull on the famous red shirt – the trials and tribulations behind the scenes, the glory, the drama and the honour on the field, and the heart-warming tales of friendship and humour off it. Absorbing and illuminating, this is the ultimate history of Welsh rugby – told, definitively, by the men who have been there and done it.Trade Review'Ross Harries has written a history book like no other' -- Peter Jackson * The Rugby Paper *'A tremendous book. What an array of fantastic characters and insights ... both laugh out loud and poignant' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'Punchy, revelatory, irresistible' -- Alan Pearey * Rugby World *'An epic story by the men who created legends in the Welsh jersey' -- Stephen Jones * The Sunday Times *
£15.29
Polaris Publishing Limited An Illustrated History of English Rugby: Fun,
Book SynopsisThe English rugby team has been scrummaging its way around the rugby fields of the world since 1871. James Stafford’s An Illustrated History of English Rugby takes you on a thrilling journey through a century and a half of glory, failure, mediocrity and brilliance. Mixing stats and facts with player profiles, match reports and social history, this book is perfect for hardcore and casual fans aged eight to 80. Packed with delightful illustrations from Raluca Moldovan, this follow up to Stafford’s best-selling An Illustrated History of Welsh Rugby will give readers a new appreciation of the stars of today and the pioneers of yesteryear.
£12.34
Polaris Publishing Limited World in their Hands: The Story of the First
Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Sunday Times Rugby Book of the Year 2023 World in their Hands recounts the remarkable events that led to a group of friends from south-west London staging the inaugural Women’s Rugby World Cup in 1991. The tournament was held just 13 years after teams from University College London and King’s contested a match that catalysed the growth of the women’s game in the UK, and the organisers overcame myriad obstacles before, during and after the World Cup. Those challenges, which included ingrained misogyny, motherhood, a recession, the Gulf War and the collapse of the Soviet Union, provide a fitting framing device for a book that celebrates female achievement in the face of adversity. Although ostensibly a story about women’s rugby, this is a tale that has rare crossover appeal. It is not only the account of a group of inspirational women who took on the institutional misogyny that existed in rugby clubs across the globe to put on a first ever Women’s Rugby World Cup. It is also the compelling and relatable tale of how those women, their peers and others in the generations before them, reshaped the idea of what it means to be a woman, finding acceptance and friendship on boggy rugby pitches. At the time, with the men’s game tying itself up in knots about professionalism and apartheid, these women were a breath of fresh air. Three decades on, their achievements deserve to be highlighted to a wider audience.Trade Review'A remarkable and inspirational story' -- Sarah Mockford * Rugby World *'A hilarious, thoroughly interesting and endearing read about those who paved the way for women's rugby today. One of the best rugby stories in history - men's or women's - told perfectly' -- Jessica Hayden * The Times *'An uplifting and outstanding effort to tell the story of the amazing pioneers behind the 1991 World Cup. This is a story that deserved its own spotlight and Martyn has done a terrific job in bringing it all together' -- Ali Donnelly * Scrumqueens *'Thomas has done brilliantly to unearth a treasure trove of important stories from those who have made women’s rugby what it is today. An extraordinary, empowering and truly engaging read' -- Fiona Tomas * The Telegraph *
£16.19
Polaris Publishing Limited Gallus: Scotland, England and the 1967 World Cup
Book SynopsisThere are two kinds of people in this world. Those who insist that football is just a game, and those who know better. Take the April 1967 clash between England and Scotland. Wounded by their biggest rivals winning the World Cup just nine months earlier, Bobby Brown's Scots travelled to Wembley on the mother of all missions. Win and they would take a huge step towards qualifying for the 1968 European Championship, end England’s formidable 19-game unbeaten streak, and, best of all, put Sir Alf Ramsey’s men firmly back in their box. Lose? Well, that was just unthinkable. Meanwhile, off the pitch, the winds of change were billowing through Scotland. Nationalism, long confined to the margins of British politics, was starting to penetrate the mainstream, gaining both traction and influence. Was England’s World Cup victory a defining moment in the Scottish independence movement? Or did it consign Scotland to successive generations of myopic underachievement? Michael McEwan, author of The Ghosts of Cathkin Park, returns to 1967 to explore a crucial ninety minutes in the rebirth of a nation. Trade Review'Written with the quality and flair Wembley '67 deserves. Brilliantly captures Scotland's magical day' -- Michael Grant * The Times *'A meticulously researched, crisply-written work of elegant storytelling' -- Daniel Gray * Nutmeg *'Wonderful sports writing. A glorious retelling of an imperious age, when Scotland ruled the world, kind of' -- Tom English * BBC Sport *'The definitive account of when we were kings, told with a swagger and style that befits those Wembley heroes' -- Hugh MacDonald'Superbly and entertainingly researched - and so much more than just an account of a famous Scottish victory' -- Dougie Donnelly
£18.00
Danann Media Publishing Limited NBA Scrapbook: Discover the Players, the Matches,
Book SynopsisNBA Scrapbook is packed with rare photographs images and on the page facsimile memorabilia and provides an incredible insight into the history NBA and its legendary players and coaches. Featuring a wide variety of superb on the page rare memorabilia from the archives covering the NBA?s hugely successful history including match tickets match programs cards and promotional material. Spanning the decades and covering all the NBA?s most iconic eras, we uncover the fascinating stories and incredible accomplishments of the greatest basketball players of all time, from the game?s first superstars, Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell and Jerry West, to the modern-day greats of the late Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Kevin Garnett.
£18.69
Polaris Publishing Limited Winning the Fight: My Autobiography
Book Synopsis'Maggie has changed the way the game is played forever' - The Sunday Times Maggie Alphonsi is not only a national sporting icon, the face of international women’s rugby and star player of the England side that won the World Cup in 2014. She is also an inspirational and totemic figure who transcends sport. The compelling story of her life makes her achievements even more extraordinary. Hers is an against-all-the-odds tale, becoming the best player in the world despite having to battle against racism, sexism, and prejudice. It is a book forged from the raw emotion, passion, and testimony of an iconic player, who rose to the elite of world sport when the world was seemingly stacked against her. It is a moving and revealing story of a woman who was not prepared to be defined by anyone but herself and gives the reader a unique insight into how she met her goals.Trade Review'a moving and important book' -- Donald McRae * The Guardian *
£18.00
Polaris Publishing Limited The Men in the Arena: England, Australia and the
Book SynopsisThe ultimate World Cup showdown, in the words of those who were there. From 1997 to 2003 England and Australia battled for domination of the rugby world in one of the greatest rivalries the sport has ever known. In The Men in the Arena, William Hill shortlisted authors Peter Burns and Tom English explore every aspect of the teams’ journey to the 2003 Rugby World Cup final, telling the story primarily in the words of the protagonists at the centre of the battle. Featuring exclusive new interviews with players and coaches from both teams plus an array of superstars who faced them from New Zealand, Ireland, France, Wales and beyond, this is the inside story like it has never been told before. 'A splendid re-telling of English rugby's most celebrated story. Cracking stuff from start to finish' - Robert Kiston, The GuardianTrade Review'Highly recommended, a deep dive into one of the best-known rivalries between two rugby nations when both were at the peak of their powers. Great stuff. A fantastic, exciting read' -- Rob Robertson * Daily Mail *'A splendid re-telling of English rugby’s most celebrated story. Cracking stuff from start to finish' -- Robert Kitson * The Guardian *'Sensational. For those who screamed and celebrated in 2003, this book is as good as it gets' -- Alex Payne * The Good, the Bad and the Rugby *'A brilliant book' -- Chris Jones * BBC Sport *'Another absolute classic' -- Paul Williams
£18.00
De Coubertin Books Broken Dreams
Book Synopsis
£18.70
De Coubertin Books A Man in a Hurry
Book Synopsis
£11.69
Danann Media Publishing Limited The History of the Cheltenham Festival
Book SynopsisA glorious celebration of the world's greatest jump-racing event,showcasing 100 years of the incomparable Cheltenham Gold Cup
£22.50
Lake 7 Creative Enter the Jungle: Photographs and History of the
Book SynopsisGet the beautiful book that presents the history of the Cincinnati Bengals football team, with full-color photography and fascinating text.The Cincinnati Bengals are a proud and storied franchise. Some of the NFL’s all-time best players—and all-time great teams—have donned the orange and black. Each season is precious to the fans, whether we won two games or twelve, because it reminds us of special memories: trips to the stadium with parents and children, watching on TV with neighbors and friends, shared camaraderie with strangers, and more.Team reporter, podcaster, debut author, and lifelong Bengals fan James Rapien presents the perfect keepsake for Bengals sports fans. Enter the Jungle collects the team’s rich history and pairs it with professional, full-color photography to create a stunning book for any coffee table or bookshelf. It presents a season-by-season summary, which includes the team’s schedule, starting lineups, and statistical leaders. James also takes a closer look at the best players and greatest wins. The book is rounded out with the author’s picks for every all-decade team. With a foreword by Dan Hoard, voice of the Bengals, Enter the Jungle truly has it all for anyone who loves Cincinnati’s favorite team!Book Features Fascinating summary of every Bengals football season Schedules, starting lineups, and statistical leaders The author’s picks for every all-decade team Full-color photography from throughout the team’s history Score a copy of Enter the Jungle for yourself, and you can give it as a winning gift too.Table of ContentsFootball Abbreviations Foreword A Bit of NFL History Author’s Notes Introduction 1968 1969 1970 Paul Brown 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 Ken Anderson 1977 1978 1979 All-1970s Team 1980 1981 Super Season 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 A Game for the Ages 1989 All-1980s Team 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 Hall-of-Famers 1998 1999 All-1990s Team 2000 Dillon Runs Wild 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Playoffs, at Last 2006 2007 2008 2009 All-2000s Team 2010 2011 Best Catches 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Marvin Lewis 2018 2019 All-2010s Team 2020 2021 AFC Champions 2022 Photo Credits Sources About the Author
£19.79
Scratching Shed Publishing Ltd From the Mountaintop: An archive history of
Book SynopsisThe rich archive history of Batley Cricket, Athletic and Football Club - from its birth in 1880 through joining the breakaway Northern Union, which subsequently became rugby league, to the current Bulldogs. All of which makes the 'Gallant Youths' one of the oldest clubs in the world, playing on a ground that is among sport's most historic venues.
£13.99
Running Press,U.S. New York Times Story of the Yankees
Book SynopsisThis real-time, historical record of the New York Yankees from their hometown newspaper allows you to experience over a century of the pride, power, and pinstripes of Major League Baseball''s most successful team.There has never been a team that has won as many World Series titles, hit as many home runs, or had as many great superstars as The New York Yankees. The New York Times Story of the Yankees includes more than 390 articles chronicling the team''s rich history through the best writing on the ball club by beloved Times reporters like Arthur Daley, Red Smith, George Vecsey, Tyler Kepner, and more. Organized by era, the book covers the biggest stories and events in Yankee history, such as the purchase of Babe Ruth, Roger Maris''s 61st home run, and Derek Jeter''s last game.This completely up-to-date through 2020 edition, including the Aaron Boone era and the rise of Aaron Judge, is illustrated with hundreds of black-and-white photogra
£19.80
Headline Publishing Group Strong Women: Inspirational athletes at the top
Book SynopsisOverpower. Overtake. Overcome. – Serena WilliamsThroughout history, every woman pulling on spikes, lacing up boots and picking up a racquet has been a rebel – and this explosive book aims to uncover the often hidden histories behind 50 of these incredible pioneers.From the first Black woman to be a professional softball player, Betty Chapman, to the iconic 'Battle of the Sexes' match won by Billie Jean King, and from trans trailblazer Laurel Hubbard to Emma Raducanu's unforgettable US Open win, award-winning sports journalist Suzanne Wrack celebrates sporting giants at the absolute top of their games.Table of ContentsBetty Chapman - USA • Ann Glanville - UK • Sam Kerr - Australia • Hélène de Pourtalès - USA • Lily Parr - UK • Alice Milliat - UK • Babe Didrikson Zaharias - USA/Norway • Fanny Blankers-Koen - Netherlands • Althea Gibson - USA • Katherine Switzer - USA • Pat Gregory - UK • Cheryl White - USA • Mia Hamm - USA • Billie Jean King - USA • Junko Tabei - Japan • Nadia Comaneci - Romania • Ann Bancroft - USA • Steffi Graf - Germany • Hassiba Boulmerka - Algeria • Brandi Chastain - USA • Béatrice Hess - France • Cathy Freeman - Australia • Serena Williams - USA • Wodjan Ali Seraj Abdulrahim Shahrkhani - Saudi Arabia • Nicola Adams - UK • Trischa Zorn - USA • Christine Sinclair - Canada • Rachel Blackmore - Ireland • Elisabeta Lipă - Romania • Amélie Mauresmo - France • Kiran Gandhi - USA • Caster Semenya - South African • Ada Hegerberg - Norway • Megan Rapinoe - USA • Suzann Pettersen - Norway • Brigid Kosgei - Kenya • Sahar Khodayari - Iran • Naomi Osaka - Japan • Allyson Felix - USA • Becky Hammon - American/Russian • Laurel Hubbard - New Zealand • Tatyana McFadden - Russia • Stephanie Frappart - France • Simone Biles - USA • Khalida Popal - Afghanistan • Emma Raducanu - UK • Hilary Knight - USA • Kaiya McCullough - USA • Sun Wen - China • Rachael Hayhoe-Flint - UK.
£13.59
Octopus Publishing Group How to Fix Modern Football
Book Synopsis*****Shortlisted for Sports Entertainment Book of the Year in the Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2021 'A manifesto to cure modern football's cornucopia of ills.' - i paper 'A brilliant book.' - Ian Wright With diving players, abusive fans, feckless agents and the dreaded VAR, football has taken a wrong turn. Now, Chris Sutton, the nation's most forthright football pundit, takes an un?ltered look at 25 aspects of the modern game that need to be changed right away - and offers practical and, at times, controversial solutions.From the standard of referees to the lunacy of the managerial merry-go-round, from shameful racist abuse to exploitative ticket prices and the shocking treatments of ex-players with dementia, How to Fix Modern Football leaves no stone unturned in.As a former top-level player, Chris knows the game inside out. Now observing from the commentator's perch, his perspective is shot through with passion, humour and occasionally a little anger.Sutton is a man on a mission, determined to get under the skin of the game he loves and to call out exactly what's going wrong.
£11.69
Chartwell Books Legendary Ballparks
Book Synopsis
£22.95
Quarto Publishing PLC The The Hurt Business: A Century of the Greatest
Book SynopsisFrom Jack London to Joyce Carol Oates, The Hurt Business is the ultimate boxing book covering a century of the greatest fighter and the writers who have followed 'the sweet science'. Beginning with Jack London's account of the 1910 championship bout between Jack Johnson and James Jeffries (for which the Call of the Wildman called for and coined the term "The Great White Hope"), and ending with Carlo Rotella's 2002 homage to Larry Holmes ("Champion at Twilight"), The Hurt Business is a near century's worth of rip-roaring reveal. Some of it comes ringside, like Norman Mailer et; some of it comes from the gym, like Pete Hamill's "Up the Stairs with Cus D'Amato"; and some of it comes from so far behind the scenes you feel as if you've been eavesdropping - Thomas Hauser's excerpt from The Black Lights. For fans of Norman Mailer's The Fight or George Kimball's Four Kings: Leonard, Hagler, Hearns, Duran and the Last Great Era of Boxing, The Hurt Business belongs on the shelves of any fan of boxing or sublime sports writing.Trade Review'For a nimble sample of prizefighting prose, Don King couldn't have put together a better card.' Time Magazine
£18.70
Pitch Publishing Ltd Everton Greatest Games: The Toffees' Fifty Finest
Book SynopsisEvertonians know what it is to experience greatness. Since the club first came to life in 1878 there have been titles won, European adventures and trips to Wembley. The fans have seen records broken, legends make their mark, matches of undeniable class. Every decade that Everton have been in existence has yielded moments of wonder, games that supporters at the time have cherished for their entire lives and which fans of subsequent generations have looked back on with undeniable pride. From the earliest days, when St Domingo's first morphed into something recognisable as a modern football club, the whole span of Everton's narrative is covered here. Those earliest title wins, those earliest finals, Dean, Lawton, Hickson, the Holy Trinity, Latchford, the glory of Kendall, the agony of Wimbledon, the joy of Royle and restoration under Moyes. Everton Greatest Games is more than just a selection of the moments that have stirred the soul of Blues. It is the story of Everton, the tale of how a church team grew into an English giant.
£12.74
Vertebrate Publishing Ltd Grit Blocs: 100 of the finest boulder problems on
Book SynopsisGrit Blocs by Dave Parry showcases 100 of the finest must-do boulder problems on the gritstone outcrops, edges and quarries of the Pennines.The gritstone crags of Northern England are internationally renowned and are home to some of the best bouldering in the world. With an emphasis on high-quality photography, Grit Blocs presents a selection of the very best boulder problems in these areas – covering the Peak District, Yorkshire, Lancashire and North East England.The classic problems are there – Careless Torque on Stanage and Flying Arete at Almscliff – but, as the sport of bouldering continues to evolve, there are also lesser-known and newer gems to discover: Archery at West Nab, The Lash at Birk Gill and Ouzel Thorn at Thorn Crag, amongst others.The stunning photography is accompanied by texts that expand on the context and characteristics of the boulder problem and give you a flavour of what each problem is like, with a bit of bouldering history thrown in too.Let Grit Blocs inspire your next climbing adventure – whether you’re a seasoned grit aficionado or new to the sport, you’ll find something to engage and animate you.Table of ContentsFOREWORDINTRODUCTIONGRITSTONE – BEHIND THE SCENES100 OF THE FINEST BOULDER PROBLEMSNorth PenninesYorkshireLancashirePeak DistrictMAPEPILOGUEGRADESACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
£21.25
Vertebrate Publishing Ltd Statement: The Ben Moon Story
Book Synopsis'Ever since I first set foot on rock at the tender age of seven years, climbing has been the most important thing in my life. In fact I would go so far as to say it is my reason for living and as long as I am able to climb I hope I will. It is from climbing I draw my inspiration for life.' On 14 June 1990, at Raven Tor in the Derbyshire Peak District, twenty-four-year-old Ben Moon squeezed his feet into a pair of rock shoes, tied in to his rope, chalked his fingers and pulled on to the wickedly overhanging, zebra-striped wall of limestone. Two minutes later he had made rock-climbing history with the first ascent of Hubble, now widely recognised as the world's first F9a. Born in the suburbs of London in 1966, Moon started rock climbing on the sandstone outcrops of Kent and Sussex. A pioneer in the sport-climbing revolution of the 1980s and a bouldering legend in the 1990s, he is one of the most iconic rock climbers in the sport's history, In Statement, Moon's official biography, award-winning writer Ed Douglas paints a portrait of a climbing visionary and dispels the myth of Moon as an anti-traditional climbing renegade. Interviews with Moon are complemented with insights from family and friends and extracts from magazines and personal diaries and letters.
£18.00
Vertebrate Publishing Ltd The Year: Reawakening the legend of cycling’s
Book SynopsisIn 1939 British cyclist Tommy Godwin cycled 75,065 miles in a single year. Think about that for a second: it’s an average of over 200 miles each day. And it’s a mark that still stands after almost eighty years. In The Year, Dave Barter resurrects the legend of the year record – a challenge nearly as old as bicycles themselves – and the cyclists who pushed themselves to establish and break it. Barter uncovers the stories behind these riders who would routinely cycle over a hundred miles a day in the race to set new records. Americans such as John H. George who recorded over 200 ‘centuries’, nineteen double ‘centuries’ and three triple ‘centuries’ in the late 1800s. The British advertising executive Harry Long, whose annual tallies of over 20,000 miles in the early twentieth century led to the founding of the formal cycling year record and Cycling magazine’s Century Competition. The Englishman of French descent, Marcel Planes, whose 1911 record of 34,666 miles stood for over twenty years. Not forgetting the legends of the job-seeking Arthur Humbles, the one-armed vegetarian communist Walter Greaves, the ‘keep-fit girl’ Billie Dovey and the staggering mark set by Godwin who left a youthful Bernard Bennett trailing in his wake. Meticulous research through the annuals, archives and news stories of the bicycling world is backed up with insights from the families of these legendary cyclists, as well as Dave’s own analysis of the riders’ years in numbers. There is no more difficult challenge in cycling. The Year is the definitive story of these phenomenal cyclists.
£9.49
University of Illinois Press The Revolt of the Black Athlete
Book SynopsisTrade Review"A useful addition to any syllabus for students of American politics or of journalism and in particular sports journalism."--Irish Independent"A must read for all scholars, activists, athletes, and sport enthusiasts. . . . Edwards commandingly expresses how the collective voices and unified actions of Black athletes can evoke institutional change. The Revolt of the Black Athlete uncovers the axiom by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., that, 'a threat to justice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,' even at institutions of higher education."--Billy D. Hawkins, author of The New Plantation: Black Athletes, College Sports, and Predominantly White NCAA Institutions"When whites respond to black protests with anger and resentment, unable to see the experiences of those who don't enjoy white privilege, that indicates that we have a lot of work yet to do. The re-printing of The Revolt of the Black Athlete comes at a perfect time to help us do that work and Dr. Edwards gives us an amazing example of someone who has spent his life not just talking the talk, but walking the walk."--Theresa Walton-Fisette, President of the North American Society for the Sociology of Sport"What The Revolt of the Black Athlete is about, at its heart, is organizing: the slow, laborious, never-complete process of working to constitute a collectivity that can seek to contest and overthrow the conditions of its subjection." --Los Angeles Review of Books"Edward's essential position in the movement, his memory of the events, and his ability to connect them to present-day activism make this book a must-read."--Journal of Sport History"The book remains highly relevant to the current climate of athletic activism and stands out as an important piece of sport history as well as a road map for critical discussions of sport." --idrottsforum.org"If there's a book that synthesizes and gives historical context to the wave of social activism that's swept through modern sports, it's this one. . . .Through Edwards' eyes, we see the awakening of black athletes to their own power not as a surprise but as an inevitability." --The Undefeated"The book remains highly relevant to the current climate of athletic activism and stands out as an important piece of sport history as well as a road map for critical discussions of sport." --idrottsforum.org "The legendary Harry Edwards illuminates this edition with a deeply probing and personal half-century of perspectives, reflections, and wisdom. Edwards must have written this masterpiece with the assistance of a crystal ball. A generation later, it remains relevant to the current climate of athletic activism, and cannot be read without profit."--Al-Tony Gilmore, Historian and Archivist Emeritus, National Education Association "There could not be a more timely moment in history to offer a new release of this classic. This was the work, by the man, that was the most influential in leading me to do the work that I do. No other work, particularly at the time of publication, ventured to either explain or provide guidance to the athlete and society on the black athlete. La plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose. The name changes and subtle progress over 50 years are admitted differences, but this work remains indispensable for us all."--Kenneth L. Shropshire, author of In Black and White: Race and Sports in America "Edwards provides a unique insight and a compelling depiction of the critical race issues that generally had been ignored. This classic provocative and seminal book contributes significantly in addressing current issues facing the Black Athlete. A classic read!"--Fritz G. Polite, author of Sport, Race, Activism, and Social Change: The Impact of Dr. Harry Edwards' Scholarship and Service "The reissue of Harry Edwards's groundbreaking The Revolt of the Black Athlete is right on time. Relevant as ever, necessary reading for all, it remains a classic, a game-changer, and a roadmap for critical discussions of sport. It is a clarion call for those that straddle the difficult line between sports fan and freedom dreamer."--David J. Leonard, author of After Artest: The NBA and the Assault on Blackness
£15.19
Baylor University Press Tommy Bowman
Book SynopsisTells the story of Tommy Bowman's impact on not only Baylor basketball, but Baylor as a whole. Tommy Bowman quietly arrived at Baylor in 1966 for the fall semester. He found himself, almost by surprise, integrating the Baylor basketball team.Table of Contents Introduction Preface: 1965 1. Once Upon a Time in Athens, Texas 2. Tommy goes to College 3. Freshman Season: Fall of 1966 4. Carroll Dawson 5. Freshman Season: SWC Play, 1967 6. The Summer of Love 7. Sophomore Season: Fall of 1967 8. James Cash 9. Sophomore Season: SWC Play, 1968 10. Meeting Jackie 11. Junior Season: Fall of 1968 12. Junior Season: SWC Play, 1969 13. Senior Season: Fall of 1969 14. Senior Season: SWC Play, 1970 15. Graduation 16. Life after Basketball Epilogue
£14.36
Human Kinetics Publishers History and Philosophy of Sport and Physical
Book SynopsisHistory and Philosophy of Sport and Physical Activity, Second Edition With HKPropel Access, seamlessly blends the historical and philosophical dimensions of the study of human movement. The text follows a chronology of human movement from our origins as hunter-gatherers to the present, offering philosophical and ethical analyses alongside explorations of cultural shifts that have emerged from different ethnic, racial, gender, and national traditions.The second edition of History and Philosophy of Sport and Physical Activity is ideal for instructors who teach history and philosophy in a single course. Each chapter provides a historical scaffolding that leads into philosophical discussions about the issues raised. The text eschews dense blocks of text in favor of accessible writing and an interactive student experience.Updates to the latest edition include expanded coverage of diversity, equity, and inclusion topics; a deeper exploration of epistemology; a discussion of alternate forms of physical activity; and new material about the ethics of research. Contemporary topics of discussion such as the Exercise Is Medicine (EIM) movement, athlete biodata collection, and transgender and nonbinary athletes in sport are thoroughly explored.Discussion questions and study questions at the end of each chapter challenge students to reflect on the course material and share their ideas. Historical profile sidebars throughout the chapters allow students to gain greater insight into historical figures and events. Throughout the text, students are prompted to access related online activities in HKPropel. These short exercises connect philosophical inquiry to historical events and modern-day issues and serve as important tools for improving students’ reasoning skills. Instructors are supported with a comprehensive instructor guide that includes sample responses to the downloadable student exercises, section references for the downloadable study questions, and sample discussion and assignment prompts related to the discussion questions. The instructor guide also includes ideas and instructions for semester-long student projects.History and Philosophy of Sport and Physical Activity, Second Edition, presents a thorough integration of philosophy and history, capitalizing on the strengths of both disciplines.Note: A code for accessing HKPropel is included with all new print books.Table of ContentsIntroduction: History, Philosophy, and Kinesiology The Evolution of Kinesiology The Humanities and the Sciences The Nature of History and Philosophy The Subject Matter of KinesiologyChapter 1. Bodies, Brains, and Cultures Making Sense of Our Story Developing a Brief Chronology of Our Story Great Leaps Forward Patterns of Culture in Hunter-Forager Societies The Origins of Sport The Complexities of Work and Play in Hunting and Foraging SocietiesChapter 2. The Transition From Super Endurance Predators to Farmers A Revolution in How We Lived The Impact of the Neolithic Revolution on Human Vigor and Health Physical Activity as a Tool and as a Jewel The Difficulties of Interpreting Ancient Sporting Cultures A Model of Traditional SportChapter 3. Ancient Greece and the Shape of Modern Sport and Physical Education The Foundation of Western Civilization Myth, Religion, and the Origins of Greek Physical Culture The Birth of Philosophy The Ancient Sporting Festivals The Olympic Games Greek Sporting Culture Sources of Evidence for Ancient Greek Sport Greek Recreation and Physical EducationChapter 4. Continuity and Change in Physical Cultures Monuments to Sporting Spectacles Comparing Mesoamerican and Roman Spectacles of Blood Opposition to Gladiatorial Contests The Ethics of Brutality in Sport Contrast and Continuity The Enduring Martial Traditions Religious and Intellectual Opposition to Martial Sports Similarities and Differences Between Eastern and Western Sport Global Continuities and ContrastsChapter 5. The Expansion of the West and the Birth of the Modern World The Birth of the “Modern World” The Renaissance, Neoclassical Revivals of Sport, and the “Nature of Man” The Emergence of “Modern” Debates on Human Nature The Protestant Reformation and Sport, Physical Education, and the Body The Scientific Revolution and Modern Attitudes Toward Sport, Physical Education, and the BodyChapter 6. Great Britain and the Birth of Modern Sport Sport as a Critical Modern Institution The Rationalization of Ethics Under Utilitarianism Rationalization and Gambling Games for the Common Folk The Rationalization of Fair PlayChapter 7. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity The Emergence of Modern Sport Liberty, Equality, and Morality The Role of Fraternity in Modern Sport Fraternity, Partisanship, and Spectatorship Fraternity, Partisanship, and CommercialismChapter 8. Games and Empires The Paradoxical Power of Sport Conquest, Colonialism, and the Spread of Western Sport Sport in Its Best Light The Subaltern Dilemma Sport as a Revolutionary Force Sport, Colonialism, and American ImperialismChapter 9. The Rise of International Sportsworlds Reviving the Olympic Games Olympic Growing Pains Social Exclusion and Other Harsh Realities of the Early Olympics The Globalization of Modern Sport Sport in Black and White and Technicolor The Ethics of CommercialismChapter 10. The West and the Rest Traditional and Indigenous Sport in an Age of Modernity Western Appropriations of Eastern Muses The Effectiveness of Folk Psychology and Folk Medicine Encounters With the “Other” Holistic Kinesiology The Emergence of Countercultural Movement PracticesChapter 11. The Golden Age of Modern Sport Phenomenology Cold War Sport Modern Science and Sport The Ethics of Performance Enhancement Breaking Gender Barriers Beyond the Gender Binary The Cold War and the Politics of Race in American Sport The Global Dimensions of Race and Sport Sport in Living ColorChapter 12. Snapshots From Our Times Do Global Connections Create Global Identities? Global Consumer Culture The Emergence of New Global Forms
£84.80
Human Kinetics Social Issues in Canadian Sport
£61.20
Meyer & Meyer Sport (UK) Ltd League of Their Own: The Secrets of Club Soccer
Book SynopsisA League of Their Own provides readers with a closer look at the FIFA Club World Champions, such as FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Manchester City. Readers will catch a glimpse into the history of these clubs while also learning about the individual philosophies of some of the top coaches. This book discusses different tactical philosophies as well as how these tactical approaches have been adjusted by some of soccer's greatest coaches, such as Pep Guardiola, Jose Mourinho, Luis Enrique, and Louis van Gaal. Finally, readers will be taken through case studies of each individual team with a step-by-step analysis of how these tactical setups are successful and how they can be exploited. Each case study will provide a discussion of how each team sets up when in attack, defending, and in transition.Not only addressing how and why these tactical setups are powerful, this book also breaks down and specifies just how lesser teams can exploit the subtle weaknesses by adjusting their attacking, defending, and transition strategies. Winning the tactical battle on the pitch creates endless possibilities, and perhaps evens the playing field to continue intrigue of the game.
£12.30
Simon & Schuster Ltd Mister
Book SynopsisThe remarkable story of how British coaches took football to the world, and continue to influence the game around the globe
£9.49
Duckworth Books Scheisse Were Going Up
Book SynopsisScheisse! recounts the extraordinary story of Union Berlin, the German Bundesliga's most spirited football club, interwoven with a witty history of contemporary Berlin.Trade Review'Fascinating' Daily Mail'A wonderful journey into the heart of a very unique club' Raphael Honigstein'The history and culture of a special football club deserve a special kind of chronicling – and Holden has executed it to perfection' Patrick Barclay'An engrossing portrait' Philip Oltermann'For the first time, Scheisse is a good thing! A captivating read on one of the most unique clubs in world football' Archie Rhind-Tutt'A beautifully crafted set of stories that reveal a personal history of one of Germany’s most special clubs and cities' Jonathan Harding'Holden superbly captures the myth, history and spirit that make Union so very special and beloved' Andreas Michaelis'A fascinating tale that is expertly told' Adam Bate'A must-read for any football romantic, regardless of where you're from and what team you support' Cristian Nyari
£8.99
Quercus Publishing Answered Prayers: England and the 1966 World Cup
Book Synopsis'Magnificent, moving, often funny and deeply researched account . . . Is this just a book for those who know football? Far from it: this is a story of glory and the impermanence of fame' Sunday Times (Book of the Week)'Like Alf Ramsey's 1966 team, this book has depth, it has riches and it's a winner - the finest piece of sports writing I have read in ages and a superb piece of contemporary history' Peter Hennessy England. 1966. The World Cup.Duncan Hamilton watched England beat West Germany as an eight-year-old boy in the company of his father and grandfather. He recalls 'Wembley, spread out in the sun; the waving flags; the delirious, joy-of-all-joys moment of the final whistle; the trophy sparkling in the late afternoon light'.But, seeing the whole game again during the misery of the first Covid lockdown, finally made him realise what Alf Ramsey and his players had no inkling of, which was what came next for them. How, for many of those boys of summer, almost everything after that shimmering moment amounted to an anti-climax or a setback. How '66 was not a beginning, a guaranteed path towards more success, but a slow decline and fall, and also a disproportionate number of disappointments. And how the triumph of '66 was dulled through constant repetition, the same images always flashed before us.Hamilton recognised, too, how many myths and misconceptions had grown around the match. He decided to revisit '66, tracing the very roots of a story - as well as the hidden figures within it - that really began during the era of post-War austerity.Answered Prayers provides, at last, a full account of English football's greatest achievement and the failures that followed it. We see the institutional inability to appreciate Ramsey and his players, who were taken for granted; the political machinations of the blazered fools who ran the Football Association; the short-sighted blunderers of the Football League.With his matchless insight and descriptive power, Hamilton tells history afresh and shows us, for the first time, the scale of what was won and what was lost.PRAISE FOR DUNCAN HAMILTON'Hamilton has a perceptively humane understanding of men for whom football was never just a game' Guardian'A marriage of prose and detail so fine and fastidious that it takes the breath away' Independent'Justifiably prize-winning' Mail on SundayTrade ReviewTerrific. As good on post-war Britain as Peter Hennessy. Informed and heart-breaking. -- Stephen FrearsAn expert observer of different forms of Englishness, he treats sportspeople as three-dimensional humans. * Financial Times *Absorbing. Like all the best football books, Answered Prayers is not just about football; it's about hope and despair, friendship and enmity, and the character it takes to handle them. * Guardian (Book of the Week) *Magnificent, moving, often funny and deeply researched account . . . Is this just a book for those who know football? Far from it: this is a story of glory and the impermanence of fame. * Sunday Times (Book of the Week) *Like Alf Ramsey's 1966 team, this book has depth, it has riches and it's a winner - the finest piece of sports writing I have read in ages and a superb piece of contemporary history. Duncan Hamilton's great gift is the blending of character, mood and moment. Even Ramsey might have showed a spasm of emotion were he here to read it. -- Peter HennessyThis may well be one of the best books ever written about football. * Choice Magazine *Brilliant...Hamilton, arguably Britain's greatest sportswriter, tells [Ramsey's] tale with his wonderful panache. He is the master of the vivid phrase... Dry humour is never far from the surface in this book's pages. * Daily Express *Hamilton has a gift for treating sportspeople as humans * Financial Times (Book of the Year) *A highly poignant, history of England's World Cup victory in 1966. * Daily Express (Book of the Year) *The finest sports book of the year by one of the country's most garlanded sports writers. * Daily Mail *
£21.25
Running Press,U.S. The Boston Globe Story of the Red Sox
Book SynopsisThe Boston Red Sox are the most winning baseball team in the 21st century with four World Series titles, and they''re not slowing down any time soon. Two of the most prominent organizations in Boston, The Boston Globe and the Boston Red Sox, combine to share a tour de force history of the heralded baseball franchise from the very beginning in 1901, when they were known as the Boston Americans. The Boston Globe Story of the Red Sox includes more than 300 articles chronicling the team''s rich history as told through the best sports writing and coverage from the beloved Globe reporters, led by veteran sports columnist and an EPPY Award finalist Chad Finn. Relive some of the biggest moments in franchise history, such as their first baseball title ever in 1901, Carlton Fisk''s wave home run in 1975, David Ortiz''s postseason heroics, and the most dominant Red Sox team ever in 2018.With a foreword from beloved former Sox pitcher and broadcaster, Dennis
£22.50
Cornerstone 89: Arsenal’s Greatest Moment, Told in Our Own
Book Synopsis‘Isn’t it lovely to have moments in your life where you think, oh, nothing can beat that. Nothing.’ George GrahamAnfield, May 26th 1989. The final day of the Division One season. An iconic underdog story.Set against the backdrop of Hillsborough disaster, and during an emotional era in football long before the Premier League as we now know it, 89 is an oral history of a sporting moment so unusual it felt instantly historic. Drawing on years of research, writer Amy Lawrence brings together fascinating and never-before seen testimony from the voices who were there, on the pitch, off it, and beyond. 89 creates a definitive and kaleidoscopic portrait of a match that changed English football forever. ‘Once it hits the net I’m just thinking ecstasy really. It’s incredible. I’ve done what I wanted to do. That’s that feeling. I’ve done it.’ Michael ThomasTrade ReviewFascinating for any sports fan and truly a gold mine for Arsenal supporters -- Alan Davies, for 'Invincible'This book is so full of exclusive interviews you'll soon feel like part of the squad. A worthy tribute to one of English football's best ever teams * Shortlist, for 'Invincible' *Unbeatable insight. The inside story of one of English football's greatest teams -- Henry Winter, for 'Invincible' * Daily Telegraph *I picked it up and couldn't put it down. Brilliantly depicts a piece of football history -- David Dein, Arsenal Vice-Chairman (1983-2007), for 'Invincible'
£11.69
University of Illinois Press Ballists Dead Beats and Muffins Inside Early
Book SynopsisTrade Review"Highly entertaining with useful appendices." --Spitball Magazine"Provides a wealth of detail about the origins of the Illinois game and the teams who played it from Chicago down south to Cairo and nearly every town in between." --St. Louis Post-Dispatch"A delightful collection of history and baseball anecdotes for both casual and serious baseball fans." --Illinois Times"Ballists, Dead Beats, and Muffins makes clear that there was a simplicity, innocence, and freshness to baseball in Illinois in these years, even as Sampson details the movement—probably inevitable—toward a more competitive and more professional level of play." --Third Coast Review"Effectively blends history and nostalgia, sparking an appreciation of the National pastime. . . . This 250-page gem by Robert D. Sampson is an exhaustive focus on baseball's early style and sweep when gentlemanly players, civic leaders, and hosts of spectators stressed the bliss more than the score." --Community Word“Detailed studies of baseball during these crucial years are rare, with ones that focus on a single state even more so. Bob Sampson’s Ballists, Dead Beats, and Muffins is thus both timely and valuable, confirming some long-accepted assumptions and forcing reexamination of others. Highly recommended!”--Peter Morris, author of Baseball Fever: Early Baseball in MichiganTable of ContentsAcknowledgments Prologue A Dying Ember First Inning Baseball Fever and Pioneers Second Inning Organizing Clubs, Funding, Travel, and the Game’s Rituals Third Inning Playing Fields, Gambling, and Injuries Fourth Inning The Game and Its Players Fifth Inning Sharing the Fun Sixth Inning Barriers of Race and Gender Seventh Inning Trouble in Baseball’s Eden Eighth Inning Representative Teams Ninth Inning The Thrill Departs Epilogue Ghosts Appendix A Illinois Baseball Teams, 1865-70 Appendix B Bloomington’s Fifth Ward School-Grounds Neighborhood Appendix C Illinois Baseball Players, 1865-70 Notes Bibliography Index
£68.25
University of Illinois Press Degrees of Difficulty
Book SynopsisHow the Cold War era changed the trajectory of women's gymnastics Electrifying athletes like Olga Korbut and Nadia Comaneci helped make women's artistic gymnastics one of the most popular events in the Olympic Games. But the transition of gymnastics from a women's sport to a girl's sport in the 1970s also laid the foundation for a system of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse of gymnasts around the world. Georgia Cervin offers a unique history of women's gymnastics, examining how the high-stakes diplomatic rivalry of the Cold War created a breeding ground for exploitation. Yet, a surprising spirit of international collaboration arose to decide the social values and image of femininity demonstrated by the sport. Cervin also charts the changes in style, equipment, training, and participants that transformed the sport, as explosive athleticism replaced balletic grace and gymnastics dominance shifted from East to West. Sweeping and revelatory, Degrees of Difficulty tells a story of interTrade Review"Degrees of Difficulty is an important read and makes the case for necessary changes to a sport that millions love to watch but whose institutional history few understand." --Journal of Sport History"Georgia Cervin's Degrees of Difficulty is an enthralling analysis of elite women's gymnastics, from a scholar's and insider's view. Through carefully applied lenses of gender, race, power, and politics, Cervin exposes the historical underbelly of cheating, bribery, abuse, and political manipulation in one of the world's most popular Olympic Sports."--Kevin B. Wamsley, coauthor of Sport in Canada: A History, fourth edition
£999.99
University of Illinois Press From Football to Soccer
Book SynopsisRediscovering soccer's long history in the U.S. Across North America, native peoples and colonists alike played a variety of kicking games long before soccer's emergence in the late 1800s. Brian D. Bunk examines the development and social impact of these sports through the rise of professional soccer after World War I. As he shows, the various games called football gave women an outlet as athletes and encouraged men to form social bonds based on educational experience, occupation, ethnic identity, or military service. Football also followed young people to college as higher education expanded in the nineteenth century. University play, along with the arrival of immigrants from the British Isles, helped spark the creation of organized soccer in the United Statesand the beautiful game's transformation into a truly international sport. A multilayered look at one game's place in American life, From Football to Soccer refutes the notion of the U.S. as a land outside of football history.Trade Review"From Football to Soccer enhances the history of soccer in America by focusing on the United States and the early years of the game." --Journal of American History "An excellent addition. . . From Football to Soccer undoubtedly adds much to the historiography of soccer in the United States." --Journal of Popular Culture "Bunk presents an innovative look at early American soccer history that should help put to rest any notion of the United States as a place exceptional among soccer-playing nations. Individual chapters within From Football to Soccer can stand alone as readings for undergraduate courses, and the book is a valuable resource for all who study the history of football codes." --Journal of Sport HistoryTable of ContentsCoverTitleCopyrightContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction1. Indigenous Football in North America2. The Schoolboys’ Game3. Manly Games of Celebration and Escape4. Steel City Soccer5. Soccer Goes Pro6. Collen Bawns and Bonnie Lassies7. Women and Soccer in the Early Twentieth Century8. Soccer Goes to War9. Ethnic and Industrial SoccerConclusionNotesBibliographyIndexBack cover
£17.99
Superscript Publishing In the Field and On the Field A Highlight History
Book Synopsis
£22.46