Like many others I have always viewed horse racing with ambivalence. Previous and current generations of my extended family have had strong equestrian links but, on the matter of horse racing, opinions of family members have been split down the middle for decades. Attitudes were so powerful and entrenched that it was strictly forbidden, at family gatherings, to mention to Aunty … [Read more...]
“Talk it up!” – Nup, says Socrates. “If you’ve got nuthin’ useful to say, then shut up!”
Of all the dumb things that get yelled to members of a sports team from the sideline the most excruciatingly brain free is “come on… talk it up!” When did “talk among yourselves” become a thing? This is particularly so in soccer. Oh, soccer coaches have an array of stupid things that they bellow throughout a match (such as “give her an option” or “come on… let’s win those … [Read more...]
The secret to sublime soccer – great players see and create “Ma”
One of the most unheralded and beautiful elements of sport… well, of good sport, anyway… is the thing that the Japanese call Ma. Ma, or negative space, as it is sometimes called, is well-known in the spheres of art, design, architecture, drama, dance and music but, when used properly, is also one of the most powerful tools available to an athlete or sports team. This is … [Read more...]
Nothing better than a “hit up”… but
In recent weeks I have noticed that some of the more flamboyant National Rugby League teams have been breaking the unwritten rule that, when in possession deep in their own half of the field, big forwards must make “hit ups” to gain field position. Teams like Parramatta and Eastern Suburbs have occasionally taken the riskier option of making a few passes to get the ball away … [Read more...]
Super body surfing – The Master, Dix Ozier, and his tips, tricks and traps of the ancient art – (Part 2)
Body surfing is not mucking around in the shore break for people who can't ride a board. It's serious business! Get the low down on the sport for supermen right here! Former masters swimming world champion and world record holder, Dix Ozier, talks to Timothy Edwards about his first aquatic love, body surfing. Here in Part 2 Dix shares some tips to help beginner body surfers … [Read more...]