Sports teams and clubs Books

Book SynopsisSheffield Wednesday Miscellany collects together all the vital information you never knew you needed to know about the Owls. In these pages you will find irresistible anecdotes and the most mindblowing stats and facts. Heard the one about the former player who was wrongly presumed dead for 95 years? How about the time the lads were drawn away from home in the Cup on ten consecutive occasions? Or the ex-Owl whose playing career wound up in Greenland and the Falkland Islands? Do you know which Wednesday winger drove to matches in an ice-cream van? The result of the 'secret' match played under the new Hillsborough floodlights? Or the depth of the floodwater on the pitch in 2007? All these stories and hundreds more appear in a brilliantly researched collection of trivia - essential for any Wednesday fan who holds the riches of the club's history close to their heart.

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Book SynopsisThe story of Scottish international football including contemporary and historic images of legends, key events, and matches. With individual diary entries for every day of the year, the book is full of heroes and villains, and tells the tales of the matches, characters, tournaments, and managers that have helped shape the story of Scottish international football. From the world's first international match against England in 1872 to Home Championship victories to World Cup heartaches and the tale of the Tartan Army, all the major football stories are covered.Scotland On This Day revisits all the most magical and memorable moments from the nation's footballing past, mixing in a maelstrom of quirky anecdotes and legendary characters to produce an irresistibly dippable dark blue-and-white history - with an entry for every day of the year. From that Partick afternoon in 1872 when Scotland drew with England in the first ever football international, right through to the SPL era, the Tartan Army have witnessed a host of successes in the British Championship, plus famous victories, heart-rending near misses and valiant defeats in World Cup and European Championships matches - as well as a few less defiant losses at Hampden. Timeless greats such as Denis Law, Jimmy McGrory and Ally McCoist, Joe Baxter, Kenny Dalglish and Dave Mackay all loom larger than life alongside the lesser-known heroes, one-cap wonders and managers who have helped shape the story of Scottish football.

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Book SynopsisCoventry City On This Day revisits all the most magical and memorable moments from the club's rollercoaster past, mixing in a maelstrom of quirky anecdotes and legendary characters to produce an irresistibly dippable Sky Blues diary - with an entry for every day of the year. From the club's formation on Monday 13th August 1883 through to the Premier League era, the City faithful have witnessed promotions and relegations, hard-fought derby matches, breathtaking Cup runs and triumphs - all featured here. Timeless greats such as Clarrie Bourton, Steve Ogrizovic and George Curtis, Tommy Hutchison, Gary McSheffrey and Dion Dublin all loom larger than life. Revisit 29th November 1961, the beginning of the club's revolution under Jimmy Hill. 3rd October 1970, when Willie Carr's backflick and Ernie Hunt's 'donkey kick' made history. Or Wednesday 13th May 1987, when the Sky Blues' Cup Final squad sang 'Go For It City!' live on Blue Peter.

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Book SynopsisCoventry City Miscellany collects together all the vital information you never knew you needed to know about the Sky Blues. In these pages you will find irresistible anecdotes and the most mindblowing stats and facts. Heard the one about the substitute who scored on his debut after just 26 seconds? How about the FA Youth Cup winners who were signed by Kenny Dalglish? Or the media pundit who scored in six successive top-flight matches? Do you know what Des Bremner and Gilles de Bilde have in common with Steve Ogrizovic? Which was the last side to win a League game at Highfield Road? And who was the only Irishman who didn't know where Dublin was? All these stories and hundreds more appear in a brilliantly researched collection of trivia - essential for any Coventry City fan who holds the riches of the club's history close to their heart.

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Book SynopsisCharlton Athletic On This Day revisits all the most magical and memorable moments from the club's rollercoaster past, mixing in a maelstrom of quirky anecdotes and legendary characters to produce an irresistibly dippable Addicks diary - with an entry for every day of the year. From the club's formation in 1905 through to the Premier League era, the red-and-white faithful have witnessed record-breaking dramas unfold: the greatest ever recovery in a league match; the first rise from the old Division Three to the old Division One, eventually finishing runners-up; the first ever substitute used; the first retention of a top-tier spot via the playoffs - plus an all-time Wembley classic. Timeless greats such as Derek Hales, Scott Parker, Jimmy Seed, Clive Mendonca, Sam Bartram and Eddie Firmani all loom larger than life in a history capped by a groundbreaking groundshare exile, and a glorious return to The Valley.

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Book SynopsisFifteen Fulham legends come together to tell the stories behind their favourite ever games for the club - enabling Cottagers fans of all ages to relive these magic moments through the eyes and emotions of the men who were there, playing their hearts out for the white shirt...John Mitchell and Les Strong recall 1975 FA Cup heroics, recounting stories of overturning Birmingham City in the semi-final before facing West Ham at Wembley as Second Division underdogs; George Cohen waxes lyrical about an eight-goal semi-final against Manchester United in 1958. Rodney McAree opts for the goal at Carlisle in 1997 that started Fulham's climb from the basement to the Premier League - while Simon Davies nominates the Europa League Final. Craven Cottage greats Steve Earle, Ray Lewington and Danny Murphy also turn in characteristic star performances, winding back the clock to relive treasured memories of the Match of Their Lives for Fulham.

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Book SynopsisFourteen Derby County legends come together to tell the stories behind their favourite ever games for the club - enabling Rams fans of all ages to relive these magic moments through the eyes and emotions of the men who were there, playing their hearts out for the white shirt...Steve Powell recalls playing against Liverpool at the Baseball Ground when he was just 16, in a match that virtually sealed Derby's first league championship; Jim Bullions recounts heroic stories of Wembley in 1946, when the Rams beat Charlton to lift the FA Cup. Michael Johnson waxes lyrical on beating Forest in a six-goal thriller - while Darren Moore nominates the win over West Brom in the 2007 Championship play-off final. County greats Johnny Morris, Dave Mackay and Marco Gabbiadini also turn in characteristic star performances, winding back the clock to relive treasured memories of the Match of Their Lives for the Rams.

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Book SynopsisA dozen Wolverhampton Wanderers legends come together to tell the stories behind their favourite ever games for the club - enabling Wolves fans of all ages to relive these magic moments through the eyes and emotions of the men who were there, playing their hearts out for the old gold shirt...Bert Williams and Sammy Smyth recall 1949 FA Cup glory, recounting stories of the spirited semi against Manchester United, topped off by Wembley victory over Leicester; Bill Slater opts for the international friendly against Honved that saw Wolves crowned unofficial 'Champions of the World' in 1956. John Richards waxes lyrical about his Wolves debut at the Hawthorns, while Derek Parkin selects the 1980 League Cup Final against Forest. Molineux legends Roy Swinbourne, Ron Flowers and Steve Bull also turn in characteristic star performances, winding back the clock to relive treasured memories of the Match of Their Lives for the Wolves.

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Book SynopsisSixteen Stoke City legends tell the stories behind their favourite ever games for the club - enabling Potters fans of all ages to relive these magic moments through the eyes and emotions of the men who were there, playing their hearts out for the red-and-white stripes...Terry Conroy recounts scoring in the 1972 League Cup Final, and Mark Stein remembers another Wembley win in the 1992 Autoglass Trophy. Denis Smith recalls when Stoke took on the best that Europe had to offer, and came so close to defeating mighty Ajax, while Peter Fox takes the unusual step of selecting a game in which he only played for half an hour - the 4-4 draw with Luton in 1982. Victoria Ground legends Dennis Herod, Tony Allen and Mark Chamberlain also turn in characteristic star performances, winding back the clock to relive treasured memories of the Match of Their Lives for the Potters.

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Book SynopsisThe only official book that tells the full story of the historic 2019 Grand Slam win for Wales.

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Book SynopsisGot, Not Got: The Lost World of Norwich City is an Aladdin's cave of memories and memorabilia, guaranteed to whisk you back to Carrow Road's fondly remembered 'Golden Age' of mud and magic - as well as a Canaries-mad childhood of miniature tabletop games and imaginary, comic-fuelled worlds. The book recalls a more innocent era of football, lingering longingly over relics from the good old days - Canaries stickers and petrol freebies, league ladders, big-match programmes and much more - revisiting lost football culture, treasures and pleasures that are 100 per cent Norwich City. If you're a lifelong Norwich fan, one of the army of obsessive soccer kids at any time from the Ron Saunders era to the early days of the Premier League, then this is the book to recall the mavericks - Fashanu, Fox and Peters, Townsend, Goss and Culverhouse - and the marvels of the Lost World of Football.

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Book SynopsisGot, Not Got: The Lost World of Ipswich Town is an Aladdin's cave of memories and memorabilia, guaranteed to whisk you back to Portman Road's fondly remembered 'Golden Age' of mud and magic - as well as a Blues-mad childhood of miniature tabletop games and imaginary, comic-fuelled worlds. The book recalls a more innocent era of football, lingering longingly over relics from the good old days - Tractor Boys stickers and petrol freebies, league ladders, big-match programmes and much more - revisiting lost football culture, treasures and pleasures that are 100 per cent Ipswich Town. If you're a lifelong Ipswich fan, one of the army of obsessive soccer kids at any time from the arrival of Bobby Robson to the early days of the Premier League, then this is the book to recall the mavericks - Mariner, Muhren and Mills, Holland, Beattie and Butcher - and the marvels of the Lost World of Football.

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Book SynopsisIrresistible anecdotes, irrepressible characters, mindblowing stats and facts. Here's all the vital information you never knew you needed to know about Leicester City, coupled with a day-by-day diary of magical and memorable moments from the Foxes' rollercoaster history. Heard the one about the 0-12 drubbing at Forest after the players had attended 'Leggy' Turner's wedding? How about the goal that keeper Peter Shilton didn't know he'd scored? Or the 1974 team's funky single 'This Is the Season for Us'? Turn back the clock to 30 May 1994 when the Foxes finally won at Wembley at their seventh attempt. Revisit 10 August 1968, when City smashed the British transfer record, paying Fulham GBP150,000 for Allan Clarke. Or 23 August 1972, when Frank Worthington scored on his debut at Old Trafford. A brilliantly researched collection of trivia - essential for any fan who holds the riches of blue-and-white history close to their heart.

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Book SynopsisNotes on a Season 2021/2022 - The Chase is an official club book that provides a fascinating look back at this unique campaign in the words of the Liverpool manager who made it all possible. This is the story of an unforgettable campaign in Jurgen Klopp's own words about another famous chapter in Anfield history.

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Book SynopsisBaseball is much more than the national pastime. It has become an emblem of America itself. From its initial popularity in the mid-nineteenth century, the game has reflected national values and beliefs and promoted what it means to be an American. Stories abound that illustrate baseball's significance in eradicating racial barriers, bringing neighborhoods together, building civic pride, and creating on the field of play an instructive civics lesson for immigrants on the national character.In A People's History of Baseball, Mitchell Nathanson probes the less well-known but no less meaningful other side of baseball: episodes not involving equality, patriotism, heroism, and virtuous capitalism, but power--how it is obtained, and how it perpetuates itself. Through the growth and development of baseball Nathanson shows that, if only we choose to look for it, we can see the petty power struggles as well as the large and consequential ones that have likewise defined our nation.By offering a fTrade Review"Chronicles the historic power struggles among those seeking to define and regulate pro baseball. . . . A fine book."--Library Journal"A People’s History of Baseball provides vigorous and fascinating challenges to the ways in which fans have related to a game that [Nathanson] says has been ‘virtually synonymous’ with America for well over a century.”--The Boston Globe"Nathanson's arguments are intriguing throughout."--The Journal of American History"Nathanson has researched thoroughly, writes persuasively, and does not shy away from challenging even the most revered narrative in baseball: Branch Rickey, Jackie Robinson, and the integration of Major League Baseball."--Journal of Sport History"A valuable and vibrant contribution to an expanding scholarly literature on American baseball."--The Historian"Mitchell Nathanson's A People's History of Baseball is a historical corrective. It examines Major League Baseball (MLB) through an "alternative lens" (219), one that provides a useful, critical perspective. The book's six chapters cover a lot of ground. A thoughtful, substantive exploration of some aspects of MLB's unsavory past and present, A People's History of Baseball is a welcome alternative to the far more numerous baseball romances published every spring."--Nine"An excellent social critique that tells provocative and overlooked back stories about baseball in American history and culture. A People's History of Baseball goes beyond the game itself and examines larger issues of nationalism, mass media, legal history, and race relations."--Robert Elias, author of The Empire Strikes Out: How Baseball Sold U.S. Foreign Policy and Promoted the American Way Abroad"Armed with convincing and creative arguments that challenge the many myths surrounding America's national pastime, A People's History of Baseball provides ample fodder for debate among sport history scholars as well as general readers interested in exploring the game's meaningful role in shaping the American identity."--Samuel O. Regalado, author of Viva Baseball! Latin Major Leaguers and Their Special HungerTable of ContentsAcknowledgments ix Prologue xi 1 A Game of Their Own 1 2 The Sovereign Nation of Baseball 28 3 Rickey, Race, and "All Deliberate Speed" 67 4 Tearing Down the Walls 108 5 "Wait 'Til Next Year" and the Denial of History 146 6 The Storytellers 180 Notes 221 Bibliography 261 Index 271

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Book SynopsisThe story of black professional baseball provides a remarkable perspective on several major themes in modern African American history: the initial black response to segregation, the struggle to establish successful separate enterprises, and the movement toward integration. This book presents the history of a great African American achievement.Trade Review"Lanctot takes us beyond the ball field where the Paiges and Gibsons played in forced segregation, and into the commercial and social realities of baseball in black communities. . . . Lanctot offers a rich array of facts that history lovers can feast on." * Washington Post *"A fact-filled and thought-provoking book that should be of interest and use to scholars and lay readers interested in sports history, business history, and African American history." * Enterprise and Society *"A meticulously researched history that explores the economics, strengths, shortcomings, and legacy of the Negro Leagues." * Pittsburgh Post-Gazette *"Without nostalgia, Lanctot offers a careful and balanced judgment on the Negro leagues, one that is likely to stand for some time." * New York Times *"Neil Lanctot has accomplished something I long thought impossible. He has produced an overview of the institution of black baseball as a business. . . . I doubt that there is a better researched and more exhaustive history of the Negro Leagues out there." * Rob Ruck, author of Sandlot Seasons: Sport in Black Pittsburgh *"This is a superb historical analysis of the Negro Leagues. . . . Lanctot provides, in my opinion, the most detailed and sophisticated examination of black baseball ever written." * David K. Wiggins, author of Glory Bound: Black Athletes in White America *Table of ContentsPreface PART I. SEPARATE BUT EQUAL? Chapter 1. A Fragile Industry and a Struggling Community. Chapter 2. External Threats and Internal Dissension Chapter 3. Growing Pains Chapter 4. A New Beginning Chapter 5. An Industry Transformed Chapter 6. Life Inside a Changing Industry PART II. INTEGRATION Chapter 7. On the Outside Looking In Chapter 8. Breakthrough and Setback Chapter 9. Integration and the Changing Postwar World Chapter 10. "The Golden Era Has Passed" Chapter 11. The End of a Business List of Abbreviations Notes Index

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Book SynopsisOutside the Limelight pulls back the curtain on Ivy League basketball. At a time when college sports have become a multimillion dollar industry, Kathy Orton reminds us of why some young men chase hoop dreams—not for an NBA contract, but for the love of the game. Trade Review"Orton, a Washington Post sports writer, makes a game effort of illuminating the inside game of a sport that has been remarkably monotonous in its outcome." * Bloomberg News *"Not many people are aware of the drama of Ivy League basketball. Outside the Limelight is a wonderful tribute to one of the most undervalued conferences in college basketball. I know. I've got the tuition bills." -- Tony Kornheiser * Washington Post and ESPN *"Growing up, I was very impressed with Bill Bradley, Jim McMillian and Heyward Dotson. They fueled my interest in going to an Ivy League school. I hoped we as a team could duplicate the success they had at their schools. Kathy Orton introduces college basketball fans to the Ivy League beyond the well-known names and tells the story of the joys and sorrows of a season." -- James Brown * Harvard '73 and CBS Sports/Showtime studio host *"In my book, there's no such thing as an Ivy League player. There is such a thing as a basketball player who happens to play in the Ivy League. As Outside the Limelight reveals, when they come out of the locker room and step across the white line, they are basketball players. Period." -- Pete Carril * former Princeton coach and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame member *"As someone who played in the Ivy League, and always wanted to write about it, Kathy Orton has beaten me to it. And good for her, for she's written a wonderful book that captures both the league's idiosyncrasies and its uniqueness. It's all here, the coaches trying to win in a league without athletic scholarships, the players grappling with their own basketball dreams, and the bus rides, too. In many ways the Ivy League is the last real amateur league in college basketball, a page out of a simpler basketball time, and Orton captures it all. I wish I had written it." -- Bill Reynolds * Brown '68 and Providence Journal sports columnist *"Journalist Orton followed Ivy League men's basketball during the 2005-06 season, as Penn and Princeton battled for the top spot and Harvard, Cornell, Yale, Brown, Dartmouth, and Columbia struggled to achieve winning records. This charming book recalls a time when colleges played basketball solely for the love of the sport. Highly recommended." * Choice *"Orton has honored [these players] with her thoughtful account." * Town Topics *"Orton provide[s] a fresh look at the non-scholarship, true student athletes in the game." * The Saratogian *Table of ContentsForeword Preface 1 Origins of a League Part I Great Expectations 2 A Mom-and-Pop Store 3 Great Scott 4 Multicultural Quakers 5 Getting Under Way 6 Roll Crimson Pride 7 Backdoor Cuts 8 A Tradition Tarnished 9 Bright Lights, Big Stages Part II The Heart of the Season 10 Harvardization 11 Conference Calls 12 We Interrupt This Season . . . 13 The Road Is the Thing 14 Everyone Onto the Court 15 Brothers in Arms 16 A Rivalry Like No Other 17 Topsy-Turvy Weekend 18 Dreams Deferred 19 And the Winner Is . . . Part III Tournament Hoopiness 20 The Wait of Expectations Epilogue

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Book SynopsisTells the behind-the-scenes story of the University of Georgia’s 2021 college football national championship season from the perspective of the man in charge: Kirby Smart.

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Book SynopsisNarrates Tony Barnhart’s experience with integration in small-town Georgia as a member of Greene County’s first integrated football team. The sportswriter, also known as Mr College Football, details the Tigers’ surprisingly successful season, the enduring relationships he formed with his teammates, and the difficulties of school sports integration.Trade ReviewGoogle ‘Mr. College Football,’ and only Tony Barnhart pops up. Barnhart has established himself with superb writing, copious research, and great integrity over a lifetime of sports journalism. I can think of no one else who has earned the respect of virtually every competitor, fan, and administrator. His role in the beginning of the blending of white and African American student-athletes is a story that must be told. The forming of his unique high school team is an important marker in racial progress. The fact of a championship shaped from the nightmare of racism is the triumph of the human spirit. The writing of this beautiful book is the gift of a genius who was there for all of it. Read it with care—your life will never be quite the same." - Bill Curry, former head football coach at Georgia Tech, Alabama, Kentucky, and Georgia State

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Book SynopsisA lively history of the ups and downs of a legendary team and its iconic players as they persevered through internal unrest and the turmoil of the Great Depression, pursuing a pennant that didn't come until 1948.Trade Review“Avid baseball fans, especially Cleveland fans, will enjoy No Money, No Beer, No Pennants.… A fine addition to any baseball fan’s bookshelf.” * Canadian Journal of History *“Though, as the title indicates, there aren’t too many happy events recorded in the book, it remains fascinating for the many stories and details Longert has pulled from his research.” * Akron Beacon-Journal *“Tribe fans will read it with great enthusiasm and baseball historians will reference it often, as Scott Longert brings much new, important information to the table. I particularly appreciated the backstories of the players and the conflicts that the team faced: old stadium versus new, radio broadcasts versus not, and day games versus night.”“Much has been written about the great Indians players of the 1930s, but not so much on the team itself, and the building of the stadium is a great backdrop. Longert knows his stuff and goes to the right sources, and excels at capturing life in baseball at a particularly critical time for Clevelanders as well as the country.”“In so many baseball books, the authors report on too many details of too many games. Longert is more selective, sometimes only recounting key moments of pivotal games. I was sorry when this book ended.” * Book Reviews by Charles *

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Book SynopsisLike other teams, the Cleveland Indians suffered as World War II drained rosters and distracted fans. But in 1945, star pitcher Bob Feller returned from naval service and was soon joined by the American League’s first Black players: Larry Doby and Satchel Paige. This book shows how, in 1948, they led the Indians to a World Series championship.Trade Review"Once again Scott H. Longert shows why he is a leading historian and storyteller of baseball in Cleveland. In Longert’s unique style, Victory on Two Fronts tells the story of how the intersection of World War II America, integration, and Cleveland’s baseball team shaped society and the national pastime. Just like Indians outfielder Pat Seerey…Longert [is] the ‘people’s choice’ when it comes to chronicling the hundred-plus years of baseball in Cleveland.”

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Book SynopsisLike other teams, the Cleveland Indians suffered as World War II drained rosters and distracted fans. But in 1945, star pitcher Bob Feller returned from naval service and was soon joined by the American League’s first Black players: Larry Doby and Satchel Paige. This book shows how, in 1948, they led the Indians to a World Series championship.Trade Review"Once again Scott H. Longert shows why he is a leading historian and storyteller of baseball in Cleveland. In Longert’s unique style, Victory on Two Fronts tells the story of how the intersection of World War II America, integration, and Cleveland’s baseball team shaped society and the national pastime. Just like Indians outfielder Pat Seerey…Longert [is] the ‘people’s choice’ when it comes to chronicling the hundred-plus years of baseball in Cleveland.”

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Book SynopsisAn updated edition of thebest-selling book The Eagles Encyclopedia celebrating the Super Bowl Champions, the E-A-G-L-E-S!Table of ContentsTable of Contents Preface Acknowledgements1. A Passion Play: Philadelphia and Football2. Professional Football in Philadelphia: The Early Years3. Bert Bell and the Birth of the Eagles4. Player Profiles5. The Coaches6. The Front Office7. The Golden Years: 1948-49, 1960, 19808. The Andy Reid Era9. The Super Season—201710. The Post-Season11. The Hall of Fame12. Milestone Moments13. The Eagles—Cowboys Rivalry14. The Stadiums15. SidelinesAppendix A: Year-by-Year HighlightsAppendix B: Stats, Records, All-Time Roster and Draft

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Book SynopsisThe NHL's New York Islanders were struggling. After winning four straight Stanley Cups in the early 1980s, the Islanders had suffered an embarrassing sweep by their geographic rivals, the New York Rangers, in the first round of the 1994 playoffs. We Want Fish Sticks the upheavals that followed through period sources and interviews with the people who lived it.Trade Review“There were times during the mid- to late 1990s when Barnum and Bailey had nothing on the New York Islanders. From a disastrous rebranding to ownership fiascos, they became a bad hockey joke. Thanks to Nick Hirshon’s narrative, it’s far more enjoyable to revisit today than it was to experience in real time.”—Howie Rose, television play-by-play broadcaster for the New York Islanders, 1995–2016“Hirshon skillfully captures perhaps the most colorful story in hockey history. Benefiting from original interviews with NHL players, We Want Fish Sticks takes readers on the ice and into the locker room for the stranger-than-fiction moments that defined the mid-1990s New York Islanders.”—Keith Jones, hockey studio analyst for NBC Sports“A great behind-the-scenes look at one of history’s most (in)famous team designs and an excellent primer on team design in general. Essential reading for any fan of uniforms, logos, and sports aesthetics.”—Paul Lukas, ESPN.com columnist and founder of Uni Watch"With We Want Fish Sticks, Hirshon captured what was one of the most unique stories in sports amidst what was an amazing era for hockey in New York."—Jason Schott, Brooklyn Fans“This part in Islanders history couldn’t have been more accurately documented. It was easily the most uncomfortable time for players and, with Mike Milbury at the helm, simply embarrassing. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the thoughts behind the changing of the brand. I now have a better understanding of the decision process. Clearly there needed to be much more dialogue on such an important change and how it would affect the Islanders’ image.”—Mick Vukota, New York Islanders franchise leader in penalty minutes"For readers who are interested in sports branding as well as hockey history, this is a must read."—Guy Who Reviews Sports BooksTable of ContentsList of Illustrations Foreword, by Éric Fichaud Acknowledgments Introduction 1. Birth of a Brand 2. A Frozen-Dinner Franchise 3. The Baymen and the Bruin 4. New Team, Dashed Dream 5. Dead in the Water 6. Spano for President 7. From Savior to Devil Epilogue Appendix: Interview with Graphic Designer Pat McDarby Notes Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisIn their seven years together, quarterback Johnny Unitas and coach Don Shula, kings of the fabled Baltimore Colts of the 1960s, created one of the most successful franchises in sports. Unitas and Shula had a higher winning percentage than Lombardi's Packers, but together they never won the championship. Baltimore lost the big game to the Browns in 1964 and to Joe Namath and the Jets in Super Bowl IIIboth in stunning upsets. The Colts' near misses in the Shula era were among the most confounding losses any sports franchise ever suffered. Rarely had a team in any league performed so well, over such an extended period, only to come up empty. The two men had a complex relationship stretching back to their time as young teammates competing for their professional lives. Their personal conflict mirrored their tumultuous times. As they elevated the brutal game of football, the world around them clashed about Vietnam, civil rights, and sex. Collision of Wills looks at the complicated relationshTrade Review"Gilden's detailed book captures the excitement of the Unitas-led Colts drives and provides a glimpse into one of pro football's greatest player-coach relationships."—Publishers Weekly"Jack Gilden's new book reminds us that the game, even in its golden era, has always had controversy. But it was usually well-hidden. Gilden uncovers much that we never suspected, in a book about two of the most legendary figures the game has ever known. . . . This one's not for the hero worshippers who wish only to think of their favorite teams as happy bands of brothers. It's about one of the greatest teams in football history—the late, lamented Colts before they were snatched from Baltimore—and the sheer contempt their quarterback and coach had for each other."—Michael Olesker, Baltimore Post-Examiner"The author does a fine job of re-creating the Colts' fierce rivalry with Vince Lombardi's Packers and presents well-rounded portraits of Shula, Unitas, and other principals such as owner Carroll Rosenbloom and players Tom Matte and Raymond Berry."—John Maxymuk, Library Journal"Both Unitas and Shula are members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, each carving out a glorious career. For seven years they both excelled in spite of each other, winning more games than even Vince Lombardi’s fabled Packers. Gilden brings that conflict into sharp focus with a compelling narrative and the perspective of people who admired both men."—Bob D'Angelo, Sport in American History"This is a very interesting and informative book on the Colts and the two legends who played an important role in making the Colts one of the best teams during the 1960's. Their role in changing the landscape of professional football cannot be overlooked and this book informs the reader of their importance."—Guy Who Reviews Sports Books"I enjoyed reading this book as the author was able to balance the conflicts we saw with Shula and Unitas in the context of the period of societal turmoil they played in. He was also able to interview many individuals from that time period that helped give greater strength to the story that was told. If you are a fan of the Colts and or 1960's football this book would be an excellent addition to your library."—Gridiron Greats Book Review"A revealing look behind the scenes of one of the game's most idolized players, and one of its most triumphant coaches—and how the two men won with remarkable consistency despite their sheer contempt for each other."—Michael Olesker, Baltimore Jewish Living“The Baltimore Colts of the 1960s are one of pro football’s great underreported stories. The fact that Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers took their headlines and championships doesn’t make them any less fascinating. With passion for the subject, extensive reporting, and sharp analysis, Jack Gilden brings to life Johnny Unitas, Don Shula, their team, their era, and their city. I thought I knew everything about Baltimore sports after covering them for more than three decades, but Collision of Wills taught me a lot.”—John Eisenberg, former Baltimore Sun sports columnist and author of The Streak: Lou Gehrig, Cal Ripken Jr., and Baseball’s Most Historic RecordTable of ContentsList of Illustrations Prologue 1. A Legend Departs and an Ambitious Young Man Arrives 2. Rise and Fall of the Colts 3. Complicated Men 4. Shula Encounters Unexpected Problems 5. The Colts’ Greatest Season Yet 6. Black, White, and the Browns 7. Story Lines 8. The 1964 Championship Game 9. The Conflict 10. Love Is Also a Collision Sport 11. Unprecedented Success 12. Changing Times 13. War 14. 1968 15. Super Bowl III 16. Denouement Afterword Acknowledgments Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA poignant and nostalgic narrative of the lives and travails of Minor League Baseball, focusing on the 1981 championship season of the New York Yankees' Triple-A farm club, the Columbus Clippers. That year was especially notable in the annals of baseball history as the year Major League Baseball went on strike in midseason.Trade Review"This book is an enjoyable reminder of that season for those of us who grew up in the Columbus area watching the Clippers and hoping to see our favorite players make the Yankees roster. Unfortunately, it’s also a reminder of the cruel realties of MiLB— most of the players at that level will never last long in the majors, often as victims of circumstance and not their own inabilities to play the game. Thanks to Herman’s book, readers will come to appreciate 'the greatest baseball team you’ve never heard of.'"—Willie Steele, NINE"Herman . . . recalls the magical season in this part memoir, mostly baseball history destined to become a baseball classic. . . . Using interviews, books, newspapers, and a range of other primary sources, Herman weaves a fascinating saga filled with humorous and tragic events of the era and is at his best recalling off the field stories. . . . A lively grand slam that will win over all sports fans, and anyone interested in a story well told."—Boyd Childress, Library Journal"Almost Yankees is Herman's look back at a team that was lost to him, and to many outside of its Columbus rooters. Now, both for him and especially for fans of that Yankees dynasty but really for anyone who likes stories of minor league ball in a bygone era, it's found again."—Jerry Milani, Gotham Baseball"Kudos for SABR member Herman and this fine volume about the 1981 Columbus Clippers."—John Vorperian, SABR Lajoie Chapter newsletter"J. David Herman provides meticulously detailed insight into this previously unmined chapter of Yankees history."—Yankees Magazine "Almost Yankees is one of the best books ever written about minor league baseball."—Mike Shannon, Minor Trips Digest"Almost Yankees, featuring interviews with 28 of the team's 36 players, is a well-researched and well-written labor of love."—Benjamin Hill, MILB.com“Columbus discovered America. David Herman discovered Columbus. What Herman, a great explorer in his own right, found was a cherished boyhood filled with baseball. Heroes. Homers. Memories. It’s pure Americana. Herman takes us back in time and lets us share in his life-changing summer. It’ll make you feel good.”—Dan Raley, author of Pitchers of Beer: The Story of the Seattle Rainiers“I was there, in Columbus working at Franklin County Stadium during the summer of 1981. Reading J. David Herman’s Almost Yankees is like sitting with an old friend, going over old times and telling stories of a time when baseball was still a game, the summer full of magic, and each of us, in our own way, still dreamed of making the major leagues. Almost Yankees is a book for anyone who has ever fallen in love with baseball.”—Glenn Stout, author of Young Woman and the Sea and series editor of The Best American Sports Writing“Almost Yankees is amazing. Thanks to J. David Herman for reminding me of one of the greatest years of my life in baseball through his words and stories in this book.”—Rick Rizzs, radio voice of the ’81 Columbus Clippers and longtime Seattle Mariners broadcasterTable of ContentsList of Illustrations Prologue 1. “I Wouldn’t Ship Anything to New York Just Yet” 2. Locked Out 3. For Openers 4. “A Ball Never Comes to Me” 5. Signs of Life 6. Hello, Baseball 7. “This Is Phil Rizzuto from Norfolk, Virginia” 8. The Grind 9. Flashing the H 10. Time to Get Up 11. “I Guess I’m in Charge” 12. Postseason 13. “There’s Something I’ve Got to Tell You” 14. Heroes Acknowledgments Notes on Sources Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisDaybreak at Chavez Ravine retells Fernando Valenzuela's arrival and permanent influence on Dodgers historywhile bringing redemption to the organization's controversial beginnings in Los Angeles.Trade Review"Daybreak At Chavez Ravine is a baseball education well worth signing up for."—Don Laible, wibx950.com"Daybreak at Chavez Ravine enhances the general sociological knowledge about the expansion of the Mexican-American audience for Los Angeles Dodgers baseball."—Charlie Bevis, Bevis Baseball Research blog“Finally, Fernando Valenzuela has the nuanced and textured biography he richly deserves, as Erik Sherman expertly traces the history of the region, the team, and the man billed as the ‘Mexican Sandy Koufax,’ who delivered on that promise and inspired a generation.”—Tyler Kepner, national baseball writer for the New York Times and author of The Grandest Stage: A History of the World Series“A beautiful and long-necessary ode to one of the most important and influential pitchers in Major League history. Sherman’s affection for the subject, combined with his trademark dogged reporting, makes Daybreak at Chavez Ravine a pure Fernandomania delight.”—Jeff Pearlman, New York Times best-selling author of The Last Folk Hero: The Life and Myth of Bo Jackson“Of all the tremors and earthquakes in Southern California in the last hundred years, the seismic shift in culture and dynamics in Chavez Ravine was caused by the explosion in popularity of one man—Fernando!”—Steve Garvey, longtime Dodgers first baseman and ten-time All-Star“Fernandomania! Graybeards will recall the fervor of 1981, when a chubby rookie with a screwball from Sonora rolled his eyes skyward and threw blanks. All these years later, Fernando Valenzuela remains mysterious by design, but Erik Sherman has unlocked his story, and it is a great one.”—John Thorn, official historian for Major League Baseball“Fernando Valenzuela changed baseball, the Dodgers, and the city of Los Angeles—all for the better. His incredible story, smartly told here by Erik Sherman, captures the imagination and reminds us of baseball’s unique ability to alter American culture. One of the game’s great heroes comes to life in this wonderful tale.”—Jonathan Eig, New York Times best-selling author of Luckiest Man and Opening Day“We may never know whether that seemingly unflappable rookie pitcher from Mexico was ever nervous in 1981 as he forever changed the Dodgers and the baseball world. But author Erik Sherman is the perfect guide, chronicling the everlasting excitement and emotion as he takes fans on a retro tour and appreciation of Fernandomania and beyond.”—Mark Langill, Dodgers team historian“What Fernando meant for all cultures was that nothing’s impossible. To this day, I see people’s jaws drop when they come face-to-face or even get a glimpse of him.”—Rick Monday, former Dodger All-Star center fielder and longtime team radio broadcasterTable of ContentsPreface 1. A Reluctant Hero 2. David versus Goliath 3. LA Goes Dodger Blue 4. The Mexican Experience North of the Border 5. Uncut Diamond 6. Prelude to Greatness 7. The Fable That Came to Life 8. A Star Is Born 9. The Kiss That Sparked a Movement 10. Fernandomania! 11. An International Frenzy 12. Manias 13. Mr. Valenzuela Goes to Washington 14. Struck Out 15. A Star-Spangled Return 16. The Lasorda Effect 17. Houston Has a Problem 18. Blue Monday 19. Speaking "Catcherese" 20. Comeback Kids 21. The Legend Grows 22. Missing the Party 23. Leaving LA in Style 24. The Long Road Back to Glory 25. Legacy Acknowledgments

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Book SynopsisThis brand-new edition of Classic Cavs counts down the fifty greatest Cleveland Cavaliers games, from their 67-loss inaugural NBA season in 1970–71 through the franchise’s renaissance following the triumphant return of LeBron James. The rich, colorful history of the Cavs is woven into tales that tie together the early games at rickety old Cleveland Arena, the incredible highs and heartbreaking lows played out at Richfield Coliseum, and the fierce battles waged at the “Q.” Knight ranks last-second nail-biters alongside satisfying routs and postseason epics, from the phenomenon known as the “Miracle of Richfield” to the Cavs’ trips to the NBA Finals. Included are the heroics of characters like Bingo Smith, Austin Carr, World B. Free, Mark Price, Craig Ehlo, Kyrie Irving, and, of course, LeBron James. Whether it was because of a fantastic finish or an amazing individual performance, each game included in Classic Cavs is worth remembering and revisiting, appealing to Cavaliers fans everywhere.

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Book SynopsisIn the first edition of Classic Pens readers were reminded of the franchise’s most memorable contests, from its beginnings in the 1960s through the 2010s. is new edition brings the team’s standout games up to date, including their triumphant 2016 Stanley Cup victory. During the Penguins’ early years, it wasn’t uncommon to buy a $5 ticket for a seat at the top of the Civic Arena (the “Igloo”) and at the end of the first period move to a seat in the first row behind the glass. Except for a few winning moments scattered through their first three decades, the idea of a full-season sold-out arena was too farfetched, never mind the thought of a Stanley Cup. The only constant was that the Penguins were always in financial trouble and often threatening to move out of the Steel City. The 1983–84 campaign proved to be the season that turned everything around. e Penguins’ prize was Mario Lemieux, an 18-year-old center from Montreal, Quebec, who would lift the Pens out of the canyon of last-place finishes to the lofty heights of backto-back Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992. Lemieux went on to become one of the greatest players the game had ever seen. He and teammates such as Jaromir Jagr, Tom Barrasso, Ron Francis, Joe Mullen, Kevin Stevens, Larry Murphy, and Paul Coffey soon made the Civic Arena the place to be. In 1999 Mario Lemieux, now in his 30s, headed a group that purchased the club. e new ownership began a renaissance in which players like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Marc-Andre Fleury, Kris Letang, and Jordan Staal again made the Pens a powerhouse on the ice, led them to a third Stanley Cup championship in 2009, and secured one of the best new buildings in the NHL: the Consol Energy Center. In 2016 the Penguins qualified for the playoffs for the tenth consecutive season, winning their fourth Stanley Cup by defeating the San Jose Sharks in a 4–2 series. In Classic Pens, author David Finoli’s tour of the best moments in the Penguins’ long history will evoke special memories from longtime fans and delight those who currently follow the team.

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Book SynopsisSearching for a home and a homerun-an overlooked era of Giants and San Francisco historyThe San Francisco Giants have been one of the most successful franchises in baseball in the twenty-first century as evidenced by the three World Series Championship flags flying in the breeze over Oracle Park, one of the most beautiful baseball venues in the world. However, the team was not always so successful on or off the field. The Giants and Their City tells the story of a Giants franchise that had no recognizable stars, was last in the league in attendance, and had more than one foot out the door on the way to Toronto when a local businessman and a brand new mayor found a way to keep the team in San Francisco. Over the next 17 years, the team had some very good years, but more than few terrible ones, while trying to find a home in a city with a unique and confounding political culture.The Giants and Their City relates how the team struggles to win ballgames, find its way back to the playoffs, but also to stay in San Francisco when, at times, it wasn't clear the city wanted them. This book is a baseball story about beloved Giants players like Vida Blue, Willie McCovey, Kevin Mitchell, and Robby Thompson, and includes interviews with Art Agnos, Frank Jordan, Dianne Feinstein, John Montefusco, Will Clark, Kevin Mitchell, Mike Krukow, Dave Dravecky and Bob Lurie among others. The book features descriptions of important events in Giants history like the Mike Ivie grand slam, the Joe Morgan home run, the 1987 playoffs, the 1989 team, the Dave Dravecky game and the earthquake World Series. It's also a uniquely San Francisco story that shows how sports teams and cities often have very complex relationships.Trade Review"The Giants and Their City is a fun book to read. It is about the San Francisco Giants and San Francisco, the city. It is also about something more than that. By looking at the team and one team owner, Bob Lurie, the author, Lincoln Mitchell, explains how baseball has changed over the years. This book should be read by anybody who loves baseball; especially SF Giants fans!! They'll learn a lot about MLB, the Giants, and my pal, Bob Lurie."- Willie Mays

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis“You don’t have to be a Yankees fan to love Yankee Miracles.”—Yogi BerraTrade Review"Much of sports can leave us skeptical if not cynical. But I defy anyone to read Ray Negron's remarkable story and not come away believing that there still can be genuine heart, soul, and even redemption in the games we watch and play." -- Bob Costas"Full of fondness and good memories, Negron’s affectionate memoir reveals that his love for the Yankees and his affection for Steinbrenner haven’t diminished over these many years." -- Publishers Weekly"Hard as it is to recommend yet another book about the Yankees—especially this bouquet by a longtime employee—it’s just as hard not to be touched by Negron’s story …Even avowed Yankee haters will be warmed by stories of Alex Rodriguez’s outreach to a local youth baseball team, Derek Jeter’s private chat with a young cancer patient in a corner of the Yankees clubhouse, and the gruff but heartfelt kindness Munson would extend to teammates, opposing players, and the young Negron." -- Booklist"With the assistance of Cook (co-author: Another Season: A Coach's Story of Raising an Exceptional Son, 1997, etc.), longtime New York Yankees employee Negron (One Last Time: Good-bye to Yankee Stadium, 2009, etc.) relates a series of heartwarming tales from his time with the storied franchise. The author, whose previous Yankee-related books have been aimed at children, here offers a biography that seems straight out of a 1930s movie. As a young troublemaker, he was caught spray-painting graffiti on Yankee Stadium by the team’s new owner, George Steinbrenner. Hours later, he found himself in uniform, shagging flies from his heroes as a batboy, a job that would lead to a lifetime working in baseball. Negron’s effort to show the kindhearted side of the notoriously prickly ‘Boss’ permeates this touching book. He joined the Yankee organization shortly after Steinbrenner’s purchase of the team, and he was there through the glory years of the 1970s, when the team included such icons as Thurman Munson, Reggie Jackson and Billy Martin. The author formed life-altering friendships with each of them, and he also features the triumphs and tragedies of other stars, including Mickey Mantle, Catfish Hunter, Dwight Gooden, Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter. Each chapter recounts a “miracle” from the author’s time with the team, and Negron provides ample insight into the real men behind the uniforms. Though he doesn’t hold back from showing their flaws, the lenses through which he views them are heavily rose-colored. A treasure-trove for sentimental Yankees fans and a feel-good read for all baseball fans." -- Kirkus Reviews"[Ray Negron’s] affectionate ode to the team and its former owner is a welcome salve to the Yankees’ often self-inflicted bruises." -- Sam Roberts - New York Times"Longtime Yankees advisor Negron's inside story of life with the team begins with what reads like an episode of Seinfeld." -- New York Post"An exciting new book by a New York Yankees insider... offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at America’s most storied baseball franchise and the man they called “The Boss”—Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.... [A]uthor Ray Negron recounts an unlikely career in baseball that had a most unexpected beginning and reads like a modern day version of Angels with Dirty Faces.... Yankee Miracles features a series of heartwarming tales illustrating the power of baseball to transform lives." -- Jim Meyers - Newsmax"The most storied team in baseball history has a few tales that even the most die-hard Yankees fans might not know… [An] inspiring story." -- ReadKiddoRead.com

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Book SynopsisA nostalgic examination of the first truly great period of Manchester United's illustrious history

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Book SynopsisIn Super Bowl XLVIII, the Seattle Seahawks triumphed over the Denver Broncos to secure the franchise's first championship. This commemorative edition features unique photographs and highlights from the Super Bowl in New Jersey and captures the team's road to the title. Taking readers through every exciting moment of this historic campaign through award-winning stories and photos from the News Tribune and the Olympian, Super Hawks highlights the Seahawks' season from their dominating win over San Francisco in the home opener to the team's ascent to the No. 1 spot in the NFC standings to Richard Sherman's unforgettable deflection in the final seconds of the NFC Championship Game. This keepsake also includes features on head coach Pete Carroll, quarterback Russell Wilson, running back Marshawn Lynch, Sherman, and more—accompanied by vivid color photographs every step along the way.

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Book SynopsisEvery baseball fan knows that Derek Jeter and Albert Pujols are among the best to ever play the game. But how do their high-priced contracts impact their teams’ abilities to compete for a World Series title? Which managers and executives are best at getting the most out of their roster, year-in and year-out? And how does sabremetrics play into all of this? In this book, veteran ESPN columnist Jayson Stark explores these questions and many more. Supplemented with insightful commentary from countless baseball insiders, it gives baseball fans a rare, fascinating glimpse into the why behind the game’s winners and losers.

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Book SynopsisWhether you're a die-hard booster from the early days of Conn Smythe or a new supporter of John Tavares and Auston Matthews, these are the 100 things all Maple Leafs fans need to know and do in their lifetime. Authors Michael Leonetti and Paul Patskou have collected every essential piece of Maple Leafs knowledge and trivia, as well as must-do activities, and ranked them, providing an entertaining and easy-to-follow checklist as you progress on your way to fan superstardom. 100 Things Maple Leafs Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die is the ultimate resource guide for true fans.

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Book SynopsisThe riveting true story of a sham school run by longtime con men whose scheme crashed and burned live on television In August of 2021, a high school football team became the talk of the nation. A featured matchup on ESPN pitted national powerhouse IMG Academy against a school called Bishop Sycamore—a program with an unfamiliar name, a barely functional website, and a long list of baggage. The supposedly elite Bishop Sycamore lost 56-0, embarrassing broadcasters and setting social media alight. Within days, the program fired its coach, deleted its website, and prompted a string of official investigations. The story of the school, however, began three years earlier when an unknown program called COF Academy launched in Columbus, Ohio. Journalist Andrew King and whistleblower Ben Ferree pushed for years to expose this exploitation of high school football and education systems which left vulnerable students in the crossfire and culminated in a series of lawsuits and criminal charges.Readers will learn how a pair of old friends hatched a disastrous plan in this rigorously reported tale of ambition, greed and the allure of sports.

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