UNC-Duke Is Most-Watched Men's College Basketball Game In ESPN History
Tar Heels defeated Blue Devils on historic night.
March 7, 2006
CHAPEL HILL --- Coverage of North Carolina'S 83-76 win at No. 1 ranked Duke on March 4 set a record for the largest audience for a men's college basketball in ESPN history (more than 26 years), according to Nieslen Media Research.
It was also the fourth most-watched basketball game - men's or women's, college or pro - in ESPN history. The game, which was featured live on both ESPN (traditional coverage) and ESPN2 (from "Above the Rim" camera) as part of the new Full Circle initiative, was seen by an average of 3.78 million households on the two networks combined. Every other ESPN entity also covered the game for Full Circle; however, the Nielsen numbers only reflect ESPN and ESPN2's audience.
Some additional noteworthy facts:
· ESPN's single network coverage garnered a 3.5 rating, the network's highest-rated men's college basketball game in more than four years (Maryland at Duke posted a 3.5 in Jan. 2002). ESPN2's "Above the Rim" coverage generated a 0.7 rating, 40% higher than the network's per-game season average.
· The previous high for a men's college basketball audience was 3.44 million homes for the 1990 NCAA Tournament game between Princeton and Arkansas.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Thursday, March 02, 2006
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Jason McElwain: Autistic basketball player shines
Jason McElwain: Autistic basketball player shines
Max sent me an email about this story. You might have seen it alread, but if you didn't- David Edwards sent the video over. " Jason McElwain, an autistic high school basketball team member in Rochester NY, served as the coach's assistant and spirit leader for several years. On the final game of the season the coach let him finally put on a jersey with the rest of the team. Watch what happens then..." Pretty amazing stuff!
Read more on the story here.
"My first shot was an air ball (missing the hoop), by a lot, then I missed a lay-up," McElwain recalls. "As the first shot went in, and then the second shot, as soon as that went in, I just started to catch fire."
"I've had a lot of thrills in coaching," Johnson says. "I've coached a lot of wonderful kids. But I've never experienced such a thrill."
Thursday, February 09, 2006
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
A. Part One: Introduction and The Foundations of life skill coach
In the book's first chapter, Smith introduces the reader to his personal background. Smith grew up in the Midwest as the son of a father who was a high school sports coach and a mother who was a teacher. (12) He also briefly reviews his basketball career beginning when he was a player at the University of Kansas and then an assistant coach at the Air Force Academy and the University of North Carolina before accepting the head coaching position at the University of North Carolina in 1961. (13)
Still in the first part of the book, Smith first introduces the reader to the broad details of his philosophy in the second chapter, titled "Play Hard; Play Together; Play Smart." (14) "Hard meant with effort, determination, and courage; together meant unselfishly, trusting your teammates, and doing everything possible not to let them down; and smart meant with good execution and poise, treating each possession as if it were the only one in the game." (15) In this chapter Smith discusses how and why he taught his players his philosophy. (16) Smith recognized that occasionally his teams would have bad luck or face a particularly good team or player on their best night, but he believed that if his teams simply concentrated on those things within their control, then they would generally be successful. (17) Smith provides a more detailed description of his philosophy's three components later in the book in Parts Two, Three, and Four, but this early exposure provides a terrific introduction to Smith's philosophy. In fact, when coupled with the business perspectives in Part One, the authors' point is virtually complete, leaving little but a more detailed discussion to follow in the remaining chapters. The detailed discussions of the philosophies' three components later in the book actually produce one of the book's weaknesses--repetitiveness of concepts and anecdotes. (18)
In these early chapters, Smith comes as close as he ever does throughout the entire book to fully buying into Bell's thesis on coaching and business leadership by stating that
[the co-author] believes that readers can take things from our
[basketball coaching] philosophy and benefit from them, and I agree
that could be the case. Whether you're leading a basketball team, a
nurses' school, a small insurance office, or a large corporation,
there are certain common denominators. Honesty, integrity,
discipline administered fairly, not playing favorites, recruiting
the right people, effective practice and training, and caring are
foundations that any organization would be wise to have in
place.... (19)
Also in these initial chapters Smith identifies one of the weaknesses in trying to apply his coaching philosophy to other business-related industries admitting that, "[m]aybe it was easier for me to lead my players, who wanted to be there, than it is for a business manager to lead members of her sales department who feel they have to be there." (20) The business reality that requires leaders to deal with experienced employees who generally have greater freedom to switch employers than a typical college scholarship athlete has to transfer universities is rarely recognized throughout the book and is one of its fundamental weaknesses.
This part of the book also contains the first of many perspectives written by a former player which sets the theme for all the other perspectives throughout the book. (21) The initial perspective strongly supports the authors' goal for the introduction, which is to establish Smith as a caring, brilliant leader who was interested more in molding each player's individual character than he was in building individual players. (22) Despite the enormous on-court successes of his teams, players, and assistant coaches, it is clear throughout the book that Smith is most proud of the fact that the vast majority of his players developed into outstanding citizens. (23) In fact, ninety-six percent of his players earned their undergraduate degrees, and more than thirty-three percent continued on to earn graduate or professional degrees. (24) There is little doubt that this success is largely based on the lessons he taught his players while at North Carolina. (25) The life lessons discussed in the personal perspectives, the passion with which they are written, and the near reverent awe the writers seem to have for Smith are common threads in the player perspectives sprinkled throughout the book. (26)
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in
D. Final Thoughts
While the book contains several excellent leadership techniques that leaders in various industries should follow, the book does have several weaknesses. First, the foundational source for the book, Smith's basketball program, is not the ideal model upon which to apply the business leadership principles the authors want to develop because most leaders face a much wider variety of challenges than a college athletics coach. Further, except for the owners themselves, business leaders rarely have the autonomy or the authority that a head coach at a major university has to implement their leadership strategies. The coach holds virtually all the "cards" with regard to scholarships and playing time which allows him to influence and motivate players in ways not available to most leaders. (41)
Next, the leadership strategies required for a few hours a day over a six-month basketball season are somewhat different than the longer term strategies needed for a long-term, 365 days a year business. Finally, in the business application section i of each chapter's leadership principal, Bell appropriately uses numerous anecdotes from the corporate world to support each point. However, Bell rarely identifies the specific name of a leader or company in his examples, referring to them only in the abstract such as "a vice president of sales in a pharmaceutical company with large sales force ..., (42) and "I know a CEO that...." (43) These vague references prevent the investigative-minded reader from testing the validity of the Bell's assertions with regard to these anecdotes. (44)
Despite these weaknesses, the authors effectively translate Smith's coaching philosophy and leadership principles to a wide variety of business challenges. The authors cover several helpful leadership concepts such as identifying ways to effectively deal with the varying personalities, backgrounds, and agendas that the people in one's organization bring with them, as opposed to simply implementing a one-size-fits-all bureaucratic management system. Thought-provoking and entertaining, The Carolina Way's readers will be better equipped to handle their own personal leadership challenges. The reader will also come away with a tremendous appreciation and respect for Dean Smith as a leader and coach, but more importantly, one will acquire an appreciation of him as a human being who has positively influenced generations of young men.
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in
D. Final Thoughts
While the book contains several excellent leadership techniques that leaders in various industries should follow, the book does have several weaknesses. First, the foundational source for the book, Smith's basketball program, is not the ideal model upon which to apply the business leadership principles the authors want to develop because most leaders face a much wider variety of challenges than a college athletics coach. Further, except for the owners themselves, business leaders rarely have the autonomy or the authority that a head coach at a major university has to implement their leadership strategies. The coach holds virtually all the "cards" with regard to scholarships and playing time which allows him to influence and motivate players in ways not available to most leaders. (41)
Next, the leadership strategies required for a few hours a day over a six-month basketball season are somewhat different than the longer term strategies needed for a long-term, 365 days a year business. Finally, in the business application section i of each chapter's leadership principal, Bell appropriately uses numerous anecdotes from the corporate world to support each point. However, Bell rarely identifies the specific name of a leader or company in his examples, referring to them only in the abstract such as "a vice president of sales in a pharmaceutical company with large sales force ..., (42) and "I know a CEO that...." (43) These vague references prevent the investigative-minded reader from testing the validity of the Bell's assertions with regard to these anecdotes. (44)
Despite these weaknesses, the authors effectively translate Smith's coaching philosophy and leadership principles to a wide variety of business challenges. The authors cover several helpful leadership concepts such as identifying ways to effectively deal with the varying personalities, backgrounds, and agendas that the people in one's organization bring with them, as opposed to simply implementing a one-size-fits-all bureaucratic management system. Thought-provoking and entertaining, The Carolina Way's readers will be better equipped to handle their own personal leadership challenges. The reader will also come away with a tremendous appreciation and respect for Dean Smith as a leader and coach, but more importantly, one will acquire an appreciation of him as a human being who has positively influenced generations of young men.
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
C. Part V: Lessons Learned
Failing to provide any significant "lessons learned," this part of the book should more aptly have been titled, Other Stuff Unrelated to the "Carolina Way. '" In fact, the whole part could have been discarded because it added little to the authors' thesis. The last chapter, titled "Hopes for the Future," is a particularly unnecessary and distracting chapter in this otherwise engaging book. In "Hopes for the Future," Smith rambles on about such varied topics as a proposition to pay college players a stipend, fighting the war on poverty, abolishing the death penalty, and improving the social status of teachers. (38) While all these may be valid subjects worthy of debate, their undeveloped placement in a leadership book is completely inappropriate. Unfortunately, following Smith's ramble, Bell decides to add several of his own unrelated, unsubstantiated, and unproven musings. Even when he actually references leadership principles in the last part of this chapter, Bell does not develop the brand new leadership topics he raises. (39)
While this part of the book is generally disappointing, one very valuable portion is the chapter on Smith's experience as coach of the 1976 Men's Olympic Basketball Team. Unlike his treatment of his job at North Carolina, where he viewed the process and individual development of his players as his primary objectives, his only goal as coach of the Olympic team was to win. (40) This chapter discusses the different leadership skills necessary to lead a makeshift organization to success in a very limited amount of time. This chapter is especially applicable for military environments, particularly in an age of transformation, where different teams of people are being put together at various times to accomplish critical, but often short-term, missions. While completely independent of Coach Smith's true "Carolina Way" philosophy, this is a critical chapter in the book because in many situations, such as combat or professional business, winning is the primary goal and Smith's general coaching philosophies do not address such a concept.
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
B. Parts Two, Three and Four: Playing Hard," Playing Together," Playing Smart
These three separate parts of the book form its core. These parts detail and fully develop how Smith executed his coaching philosophy. Each part is divided into chapters specifically focusing on one part of the overall concept. Among the most helpful chapters in these parts from a leadership perspective for the typical business, government, or military leader are the chapters on "Recruiting the Players," "Team Building Techniques," and "One-on One Meetings." (27)
In "Recruiting the Players," the authors emphasize the need to carefully select employees, focusing not only on each employee's abilities, but also on how each of their goals and attitudes will fit with organizational goals. "Hire smart, manage easy" and "hire slowly, ... fire quickly" are the themes of this chapter. (28) These concepts strongly support the authors' thesis because they have near universal applicability across the spectrum of leadership challenges. (29)
In "Team Building Techniques" Smith discusses rewarding players, praising performances that are beneficial to the team, and showing respect for all players who are trying their best for the team, regardless of the outcome of their efforts. (30) The practical benefits of these approaches are highly lauded in both the player perspectives and the business perspectives sections of the chapter. (31) The authors provide several examples of how these techniques can be applied to business in ways such as starting each meeting by praising individual efforts, large or small, that helped the team, (32) and by treating with greater respect those senior employees who are not part of the management team. (33)
Finally, in the chapter titled "One-on-One Meetings," Smith outlines his methods and reasons for holding one-on-one meetings with his players throughout the year. (34) The premises of this idea are that leaders do too much "doing" and not enough teaching, and that most employees are too hurried in their daily activities to get a good feel and understanding of the company's goals and missions. (35) The authors suggest that leaders should have monthly meeting with each employee. (36) The authors assert, generally, that by conducting regular one-on-one meetings, a leader can remain in-tune with employees, and the employees can remain in-tune with the leader's expectations. (37) Military leaders would be wise to recognize the value of Smith's practices and apply them to both mandatory and discretionary counseling sessions with the troops under their command or influence. In addition to the value of leaders directly communicating their expectations and performance assessment of their subordinates, such individual counseling sessions also provide an opportunity for subordinates to raise problems or concerns that they might not otherwise be comfortable raising in the more formal work setting. By discussing the concerns, the leader should better be able to further the organizations goals.
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
The Carolina Way: Leadership Lessons from a Life in Coaching
Introduction life skill coach
Play hard," play together; play smart. (3)
This simple, three-term phrase constituted Dean Smith's entire coaching philosophy during his remarkable thirty-six year career as the head basketball coach at the University of North Carolina. (4) Smith's philosophy of "play hard; play smart; play together" is presented in this book as the "Carolina Way." (5) Throughout the book, Smith strips down this already simple coaching philosophy and defines good leadership as simply caring about people. (6) This deeply held belief and practice of Smith's proves to be the message of The Carolina Way--even more so than Smith's coaching philosophy itself. The Carolina Way offers leaders, aspiring leaders, college basketball fans, and mere supporters of human decency an inside look at the means and methods Smith used to become a premier coach, teacher, and leader. As such, it is a highly recommended read.
Smith's thesis is that good leadership qualities are transferable from one occupation to another. (7) This thesis was apparently not one that Smith thought consciously of during his coaching career and seems mainly attributable to co-author Gerald Bell (8) and book contributor John Kilgo. (9) However, Smith generally accepts their idea and develops it throughout the book.
The authors use a compelling three-pronged approach to support their thesis. Each chapter begins with Smith detailing some aspect of his coaching philosophy, including personal anecdotes about his success or failure in implementing that particular aspect of his philosophy. Smith follows each of those entries with powerful and often emotional testimonials from former players or others associated with the program. (10) As Smith astutely points out, his players "were students in the classroom known as North Carolina basketball, and their observations provide the thread that ties the entire book together in a way that would otherwise be impossible." (11) Following the testimonials, Bell applies a business perspective to each of Smith's coaching philosophies. Though the book is primarily credited to Smith, the book is driven by this application of Bell's business perspectives to Smith's coaching philosophies.
The authors break the book into five parts--The Foundations; Playing Hard; Playing Together; Playing Smart; and Lessons Learned. The middle three parts of the book deal with the tripartite elements of Smith's coaching philosophy and are similar to each other in their structure. However, the first and last parts differ substantially in both their structure and focus and are reviewed independently from the middle three pans. Each part of the book has individual chapters and each chapter is presented in the three-part style discussed above--Smith's presentation of his philosophy in action, personal testimonials, and business applications and anecdotes.
more life skill coach later to come!Tuesday, February 07, 2006
Ball finger spin B-ball finger spin
Buzz Braman, a former 76ers shooting coach who showed Shaq and Penny Hardaway a thing or two about handling the ball, gives you the lowdown:
COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group
1. Hold the ball in your right hand with the circumference-line design (the line that looks like the equator or part of a mini basketball court) horizontal and nearly level to the floor. Focusing on the line will help you balance the ball. Quickly turn the ball counter-clockwise, snapping your wrist, and release the ball so it spins.
2. Since you won't be able to control it at first, just let the ball spin out and hit the ground. When you've mastered the spin (when it spins fast and level to the floor and drops to approximately the same place), try tossing it up in the air while in motion.
3. When you can control the ball in the air like a chef with pizza dough, you're ready to try sliding your index finger down under the ball's center of gravity, pointing the finger straight up. Once you've mastered that, you can spin almost anything--even a pencil.
COPYRIGHT 2003 Weider PublicationsCOPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group
getting ready for March Madness buzzer beaters!
This is a must see, check it out all right here! March Madness, get ready here we come! This is just an amazing march madness teaser of a great buzzer beater, final four finisher! This is truly amazing buzzer beater, march madness buzzer beater, and this is just must see video!
Amazing buzzer beater here!
Amazing buzzer beater here!
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
One on One
by Nancy N. Rue
And the score stands 13 to 10 with Dad in the lead. Nathan takes a jumper, he misses. Dad snags the rebound. He takes it back, he shoots—14 to 10! Nathan snatches the ball, tries a crossover. Dad steals it—he scores! It’s over! Dad, 15. Nathan, 10!”
Nathan ignored his older brother David’s commentary and tapped the basketball out of his father’s hand. He made a neat layup, softly hitting the backboard and swishing the net.
“Doesn’t count,” David said. “Dad already won.”
“I know,” Nathan said. He continued to dribble the ball. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see his father wiping off his neck with a towel.
“You’re learning to get those rebounds,” Dad said.
“You oughta just let him take the ball after you score, Dad,” David said. “He might have half a chance that way.”
“No way!” Nathan said. “I gotta learn to play defense.”
“That’s right,” Dad said. He tossed the towel toward Nathan. He caught it but threw it on the grass.
“I don’t need it,” he said. “I’m not done practicing.”
“You’re crazy,” David said. “I’m gonna see what there is to eat.”
Dad snatched the towel and snapped it playfully at David’s leg. “Play me a game, Dave,” he said.
David shook his head. “Maybe later.”
“You could outplay me any day if you’d practice.”
“Later,” David said and disappeared into the house.
Nathan dribbled out to the three-point line and eyed the shot. Dad watched as he released the ball. It bounced hard against the backboard and rolled off into Mom’s azalea bushes.
“You know what you did wrong?” Dad asked.
Nathan nodded and went after the ball. When he came out of the bushes, Dad was still standing there.
“You’re getting better,” he said.
“You think I’ll ever be as good as you?” Nathan asked.
Dad only grinned. “Just keep practicing, son.”
Practice Makes Perfect
As his father went into the house, Nathan thought, Wonder what he meant by that? If I keep practicing, I might be as good as him? Or I will be?
Either way, it was something Nathan had to do.
Ever since he was little, he’d known his father was a star in high school and college. There were pictures and trophies all over the basement. A year ago, when he was 10, Nathan had asked why Dad didn’t become a big-time player. That’s when Nathan learned his father had suffered a knee injury, which kept him from competing again.
“Your father would love nothing more than for one of you boys to follow in his footsteps,” Mom had told Nathan. “If you or David were to get a basketball scholarship, he’d love you for it.”
Nathan thought about those words now as he imagined himself flying through the air, headed for a slam dunk. He’d never made one, although he’d watched his father and brother by the hour, hurling themselves at the basket, jumping high enough to shove the ball into the net.
Nathan had watched every basketball game on TV—really watched it. He even prayed that God would let him beat his father.
And it had to be fair and square. When Nathan first begged his father to teach him to play, Dad had said, “I will, but I’m going to teach you the right way. I’ll never let you win. If you ever do beat me, it’ll be fair and square.”
Nathan shook off the sweat and went for the basket.
His jump didn’t get him high enough to touch the rim, but at least he was in the net.
Later that night, Nathan lay on his bed.
He closed his eyes and whispered: “God, please would You help me be a great basketball player? I want Dad to love me for it.”
Even after praying, Nathan felt heavy inside.
If I can’t get my father to love me, he thought, how can I expect God to?
Friendly Competition
The next day Nathan woke up early as usual. The minute his shoes were tied, he was on the driveway warming up. An hour later, David came out, lazily scratching his chest and squinting at his brother.
“You really are crazy, you know that?” he said.
Dad appeared in the doorway, grinning. “You gonna let him give you a hard time, Nathan?”
Nathan shrugged and kept dribbling.
“I sure wouldn’t,” Dad said.
David’s eye twinkled. “What would you do if I gave you a hard time?”
“I’d challenge you to some one-on-one,” Dad said.
David laughed.
“Let’s go.”
“Aw, man,” David groaned.
“Let’s see the ball,” Dad said.
Reluctantly, Nathan tossed it to him. Dad dribbled and waited for David to join him on the three-point line.
“You’ll need to get off the court, Nathan,” Dad said. “I might mow you down.”
Nathan felt as if a bee had just stung him. He moved off the court and slumped down on the grass.
“You gonna be the sportscaster?” Dad asked.
Nathan shrugged.
Dad took a shot and made it. David checked it up, and the game was on. When Dad made his first layup, Nathan didn’t say anything. David took up the commentary.
“Dad makes his first shot. A one-pointer. But he misses a jumper. David rebounds, takes it back and comes in for the kill. He charges the basket. It’s . . . a . . . slam . . . dunk. The score stands one to one!”
“Come on, Dad!” Nathan yelled. “Don’t let him score again!”
But David did score. And then Dad did. Then David again.
They played for 10 minutes. Through it all, David kept “announcing,” but Dad kept his focus on the ball. By the time the score stood 14 to 14, Dad’s shirt was soaked and his face was red. David wasn’t breathing hard at all.
“Next basket wins,” David said in a low voice. Dad dribbled a perfect crossover and broke for the hoop. But David blocked the shot, grabbed the ball and sank a pretty fadeaway jumper.
“That’s the game!” David cried. “The kid takes it, 15 to 14!”
Dad grinned and leaned over, pressing his hands on his knees. Nathan could see his chest heaving.
Getting the Point
Nathan’s chest was doing some heaving of its own. Before the tears could make their way up his throat, Nathan scrambled into the house. He barely made it to his bedroom.
Dad found him there a few minutes later. When he heard him at the door, Nathan quickly sat up and smeared the tears from his face. If Dad saw them, he didn’t say. He just perched on the edge of the bed.
“Have I told you that I’m proud of you?” Dad said.
“For what?”
“For the way you go after what you want.”
“Big deal,” Nathan said. “David doesn’t try at all, and he’s the one who beat you!”
“Some people are naturals, and some people have to work at it. Doesn’t mean they both can’t be good.”
“But I want to be great.”
“Are you mad at David because he’s a natural and you’re a worker?”
Nathan shook his head.
“Then who are you mad at?”
“Myself,” Nathan said.”
“Why?”
Nathan shrugged. He wanted to blurt out, “I want you to love me for what I do!”
Dad rifled his fingers through Nathan’s hair. “I love you, son,” he said. “Don’t take things so hard.”
Nathan pulled away. “Would you love me no matter what I did?” he said.
Dad looked a little surprised. “Of course.”
“Even if I robbed a bank, you’d love me?”
“Sure. I’d be angry. But I’d try to do what Jesus would do. Why are we talking about this?”
Nathan looked down at his shoes.
“Have you somehow gotten the idea I’m going to love you more if you play basketball?” Dad asked.
“That’s what Mom said.”
Dad’s eyebrows went up to his sweaty hairline. “What did she say?”
“She said if me or David got a basketball scholarship, you’d love us for it.”
A smile twitched at the corners of Dad’s mouth. “She only meant I would love it if you did that. She didn’t mean I’d love you any more or less.”
“But wouldn’t you be more proud of me if I was like Michael Jordan?”
“What’s that got to do with love?” Dad said.
Nathan didn’t answer.
“You know what?” Dad said. “I think you and I ought to do something together today besides play basketball.”
“Like what?”
“Go fishing—just you and me? What do you say?”
“What about David?” Nathan said.
Dad grinned. “David has a date with his snacks and the telephone. This is gonna be one-on-one, just a different kind.”
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And the score stands 13 to 10 with Dad in the lead. Nathan takes a jumper, he misses. Dad snags the rebound. He takes it back, he shoots—14 to 10! Nathan snatches the ball, tries a crossover. Dad steals it—he scores! It’s over! Dad, 15. Nathan, 10!”
Nathan ignored his older brother David’s commentary and tapped the basketball out of his father’s hand. He made a neat layup, softly hitting the backboard and swishing the net.
“Doesn’t count,” David said. “Dad already won.”
“I know,” Nathan said. He continued to dribble the ball. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see his father wiping off his neck with a towel.
“You’re learning to get those rebounds,” Dad said.
“You oughta just let him take the ball after you score, Dad,” David said. “He might have half a chance that way.”
“No way!” Nathan said. “I gotta learn to play defense.”
“That’s right,” Dad said. He tossed the towel toward Nathan. He caught it but threw it on the grass.
“I don’t need it,” he said. “I’m not done practicing.”
“You’re crazy,” David said. “I’m gonna see what there is to eat.”
Dad snatched the towel and snapped it playfully at David’s leg. “Play me a game, Dave,” he said.
David shook his head. “Maybe later.”
“You could outplay me any day if you’d practice.”
“Later,” David said and disappeared into the house.
Nathan dribbled out to the three-point line and eyed the shot. Dad watched as he released the ball. It bounced hard against the backboard and rolled off into Mom’s azalea bushes.
“You know what you did wrong?” Dad asked.
Nathan nodded and went after the ball. When he came out of the bushes, Dad was still standing there.
“You’re getting better,” he said.
“You think I’ll ever be as good as you?” Nathan asked.
Dad only grinned. “Just keep practicing, son.”
Practice Makes Perfect
As his father went into the house, Nathan thought, Wonder what he meant by that? If I keep practicing, I might be as good as him? Or I will be?
Either way, it was something Nathan had to do.
Ever since he was little, he’d known his father was a star in high school and college. There were pictures and trophies all over the basement. A year ago, when he was 10, Nathan had asked why Dad didn’t become a big-time player. That’s when Nathan learned his father had suffered a knee injury, which kept him from competing again.
“Your father would love nothing more than for one of you boys to follow in his footsteps,” Mom had told Nathan. “If you or David were to get a basketball scholarship, he’d love you for it.”
Nathan thought about those words now as he imagined himself flying through the air, headed for a slam dunk. He’d never made one, although he’d watched his father and brother by the hour, hurling themselves at the basket, jumping high enough to shove the ball into the net.
Nathan had watched every basketball game on TV—really watched it. He even prayed that God would let him beat his father.
And it had to be fair and square. When Nathan first begged his father to teach him to play, Dad had said, “I will, but I’m going to teach you the right way. I’ll never let you win. If you ever do beat me, it’ll be fair and square.”
Nathan shook off the sweat and went for the basket.
His jump didn’t get him high enough to touch the rim, but at least he was in the net.
Later that night, Nathan lay on his bed.
He closed his eyes and whispered: “God, please would You help me be a great basketball player? I want Dad to love me for it.”
Even after praying, Nathan felt heavy inside.
If I can’t get my father to love me, he thought, how can I expect God to?
Friendly Competition
The next day Nathan woke up early as usual. The minute his shoes were tied, he was on the driveway warming up. An hour later, David came out, lazily scratching his chest and squinting at his brother.
“You really are crazy, you know that?” he said.
Dad appeared in the doorway, grinning. “You gonna let him give you a hard time, Nathan?”
Nathan shrugged and kept dribbling.
“I sure wouldn’t,” Dad said.
David’s eye twinkled. “What would you do if I gave you a hard time?”
“I’d challenge you to some one-on-one,” Dad said.
David laughed.
“Let’s go.”
“Aw, man,” David groaned.
“Let’s see the ball,” Dad said.
Reluctantly, Nathan tossed it to him. Dad dribbled and waited for David to join him on the three-point line.
“You’ll need to get off the court, Nathan,” Dad said. “I might mow you down.”
Nathan felt as if a bee had just stung him. He moved off the court and slumped down on the grass.
“You gonna be the sportscaster?” Dad asked.
Nathan shrugged.
Dad took a shot and made it. David checked it up, and the game was on. When Dad made his first layup, Nathan didn’t say anything. David took up the commentary.
“Dad makes his first shot. A one-pointer. But he misses a jumper. David rebounds, takes it back and comes in for the kill. He charges the basket. It’s . . . a . . . slam . . . dunk. The score stands one to one!”
“Come on, Dad!” Nathan yelled. “Don’t let him score again!”
But David did score. And then Dad did. Then David again.
They played for 10 minutes. Through it all, David kept “announcing,” but Dad kept his focus on the ball. By the time the score stood 14 to 14, Dad’s shirt was soaked and his face was red. David wasn’t breathing hard at all.
“Next basket wins,” David said in a low voice. Dad dribbled a perfect crossover and broke for the hoop. But David blocked the shot, grabbed the ball and sank a pretty fadeaway jumper.
“That’s the game!” David cried. “The kid takes it, 15 to 14!”
Dad grinned and leaned over, pressing his hands on his knees. Nathan could see his chest heaving.
Getting the Point
Nathan’s chest was doing some heaving of its own. Before the tears could make their way up his throat, Nathan scrambled into the house. He barely made it to his bedroom.
Dad found him there a few minutes later. When he heard him at the door, Nathan quickly sat up and smeared the tears from his face. If Dad saw them, he didn’t say. He just perched on the edge of the bed.
“Have I told you that I’m proud of you?” Dad said.
“For what?”
“For the way you go after what you want.”
“Big deal,” Nathan said. “David doesn’t try at all, and he’s the one who beat you!”
“Some people are naturals, and some people have to work at it. Doesn’t mean they both can’t be good.”
“But I want to be great.”
“Are you mad at David because he’s a natural and you’re a worker?”
Nathan shook his head.
“Then who are you mad at?”
“Myself,” Nathan said.”
“Why?”
Nathan shrugged. He wanted to blurt out, “I want you to love me for what I do!”
Dad rifled his fingers through Nathan’s hair. “I love you, son,” he said. “Don’t take things so hard.”
Nathan pulled away. “Would you love me no matter what I did?” he said.
Dad looked a little surprised. “Of course.”
“Even if I robbed a bank, you’d love me?”
“Sure. I’d be angry. But I’d try to do what Jesus would do. Why are we talking about this?”
Nathan looked down at his shoes.
“Have you somehow gotten the idea I’m going to love you more if you play basketball?” Dad asked.
“That’s what Mom said.”
Dad’s eyebrows went up to his sweaty hairline. “What did she say?”
“She said if me or David got a basketball scholarship, you’d love us for it.”
A smile twitched at the corners of Dad’s mouth. “She only meant I would love it if you did that. She didn’t mean I’d love you any more or less.”
“But wouldn’t you be more proud of me if I was like Michael Jordan?”
“What’s that got to do with love?” Dad said.
Nathan didn’t answer.
“You know what?” Dad said. “I think you and I ought to do something together today besides play basketball.”
“Like what?”
“Go fishing—just you and me? What do you say?”
“What about David?” Nathan said.
Dad grinned. “David has a date with his snacks and the telephone. This is gonna be one-on-one, just a different kind.”
Copyright © 2005 Focus on the Family.
All rights reserved. International copyright secured.
(800) A-FAMILY (232-6459)
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Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Winning is a by product of Arete
1. Questionable, unsportsmanlike tactics employed to influence the odds of winning are never worth the price in loss of self-respect.
2. Degrading remarks or actions aimed at spurring players on to greater effort may bring temporary success but results in long-range failure.
3. Anger is poor substitute for reason.
4. Your players tend to ecom what they believe you think they are.
5. Teenagers, by nature, are idealistic.
6. Attitudes such as jealousy and discontent among players are often nurtured by well-meaning adults whose eyes are set only upon the glamorous aspects of winning.
7. Patience and love are the most powerful tools in coaching.
8. Today's heartbreaks turn into tomorrow's strengths.
9. Gracefully accept unfortunate events beyond your control.
10. Work hard to influence the outcome of importatt things within your control.
11. Never "second-guess" yourself on decisions made with integrity, intelligence and with a glance from the heart.
12. The most essential thing in coaching, and a coach's greatest challenge, is to teach players to never give up!
--Coach Wilbur Braithwaite
2. Degrading remarks or actions aimed at spurring players on to greater effort may bring temporary success but results in long-range failure.
3. Anger is poor substitute for reason.
4. Your players tend to ecom what they believe you think they are.
5. Teenagers, by nature, are idealistic.
6. Attitudes such as jealousy and discontent among players are often nurtured by well-meaning adults whose eyes are set only upon the glamorous aspects of winning.
7. Patience and love are the most powerful tools in coaching.
8. Today's heartbreaks turn into tomorrow's strengths.
9. Gracefully accept unfortunate events beyond your control.
10. Work hard to influence the outcome of importatt things within your control.
11. Never "second-guess" yourself on decisions made with integrity, intelligence and with a glance from the heart.
12. The most essential thing in coaching, and a coach's greatest challenge, is to teach players to never give up!
--Coach Wilbur Braithwaite
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
How to be a Champion
You wonder how they do it and
you look to see the knack,
You watch the foot in action
or shoulder or the back,
But when you spot the answer
where the higher glamors works
You'll find in moving higher
up the laurel covered spire,
That most of it is practice
and the rest of it is work.
you look to see the knack,
You watch the foot in action
or shoulder or the back,
But when you spot the answer
where the higher glamors works
You'll find in moving higher
up the laurel covered spire,
That most of it is practice
and the rest of it is work.
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
got rock? Poems, basketball poems, inspirational poems, motivational poems
Check out more cool basketball poems here
got rock
Poems, basketball poems, inspirational poems, motivational poems
Should the waves of life come crashing down,
and there's fear and trembling beneath that frown,
Don't worry what others may say or mock,
Think of the limpet stuck to the rock.
Under 1,000's and 1,000's of waves each day,
The limpet's not worried if he'll be okay
For his faith isn't based on the size of the sea,
And if the next wave might knock him free.
He's just a sea creature who's stuck to a rock.
How can this apply to our own Christian walk?
Well, we have a Rock that we can cling to,
When life's little problems seem too big to chew.
And our Rock is more solid than any you'll find,
And you can ask Him to help you---He really won't mind.
so where do you find Him, home much does He cost?
You couldn't possibly buy Him and He's never been lost.
Our Rock's name is Jesus, It's not quite the same.
He's there cause He loves you and He's calling your name.
got rock
Poems, basketball poems, inspirational poems, motivational poems
Should the waves of life come crashing down,
and there's fear and trembling beneath that frown,
Don't worry what others may say or mock,
Think of the limpet stuck to the rock.
Under 1,000's and 1,000's of waves each day,
The limpet's not worried if he'll be okay
For his faith isn't based on the size of the sea,
And if the next wave might knock him free.
He's just a sea creature who's stuck to a rock.
How can this apply to our own Christian walk?
Well, we have a Rock that we can cling to,
When life's little problems seem too big to chew.
And our Rock is more solid than any you'll find,
And you can ask Him to help you---He really won't mind.
so where do you find Him, home much does He cost?
You couldn't possibly buy Him and He's never been lost.
Our Rock's name is Jesus, It's not quite the same.
He's there cause He loves you and He's calling your name.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
basketball basics - 101
The Basics!
Basketball players move a ball on a court by dribbling, passing, and shooting. Points are scored when a player shoots the ball through the hoop. A basket (or field goal) counts as either two or three points, and free throws count one point each. The team scoring the greater number of points in the allotted time wins the game.
What's Needed?
A basketball, basketball sneakers, socks, shorts, and matching jersey.
How long is a game?
A basketball game is generally divided into two halves, each ranging from twelve to twenty-four minutes (depending on the league). Many youth leagues play four quarters (as does the National Basketball Association). Play starts with a “jump ball” at center court. After each quarter (or at halftime) teams switch sides. Each team is permitted a certain number of time-outs per half (again depending on league rules). If a game ends in a tie, overtime periods of up to five minutes are usually played until one team outscores the other to win.
Great Shot
Jump Shot - A shot performed while jumping in the air in which the ball is released at the highest point off the ground. It is often used when shooting over a defender trying to block the ball.
Lay-up - Describes when a player moves to the hoop with the ball, steps up toward the rim, and rolls the ball off his or her fingertips into the basket.
Bank Shot - A shot in which the ball first touches the backboard before it goes into the hoop. A player will often try a bank shot when shooting from a difficult angle.
Dunk (or Jam) - A player jumps in the air and slams the ball into the basket.
Hook Shot - A one-handed shot usually taken from near or inside the key. The shooter faces sideways to the hoop and arcs the ball over the defending player.
Free Throw - A free shot taken from the foul line as the result of a foul. If a player is fouled while in the act of shooting the ball and misses the shot, he or she is given two free throws. If the shooter is fouled but makes the basket then only one free throw is taken. Also, if a non-shooting player is fouled and the opposing team is over its limit of “team fouls,” the fouled player goes to the line to shoot a “one-and-one.”
Let's Get Personal!
Personal Foul - Called when illegal body contact occurs between opposing player. Common examples are holding, charging, tripping, blocking, pushing, or interference. A personal foul results in either a player taking free throws or a team losing possession of the ball.
Charging - Called when a player moving with the ball runs into a defender who has established a set guarding position. Possession of the ball goes to the defense.
Blocking - A defensive player may not stand in the way of a dribbling player unless that defender has established a legal guarding stance.
Technical Foul - Called against any player or coach for unsportsmanlike conduct such as swearing or arguing with a referee. A technical foul awards the other team at least one free throw and possession of the ball. If a player or coach receives two technical fouls, he or she is removed from the game.
Three-second Violation - An offensive player without the ball may not stand in the free-throw lane for more than three seconds. Infraction of this rule results in a “turnover.”
Five-second Rule - A closely guarded player holding the ball has five seconds to either pass or advance the ball toward the hoop. When called, possession of the ball goes to the opposite team.
Ten-second Rule - After an “inbound,” offensive players have ten seconds to move the ball from their own “backcourt,” over the midcourt line into their “frontcourt.”
Backcourt Violation - An offensive player with the ball may not cross back over the half-court line once he or she has advanced the ball beyond midcourt. Doing so results in a turnover.
Inbound Violation - Players have five seconds to inbound the ball. If unable to do so the ball goes to the other team.
special thanks to Manhattanville College good luck this season!http://govaliants.com/
Basketball players move a ball on a court by dribbling, passing, and shooting. Points are scored when a player shoots the ball through the hoop. A basket (or field goal) counts as either two or three points, and free throws count one point each. The team scoring the greater number of points in the allotted time wins the game.
What's Needed?
A basketball, basketball sneakers, socks, shorts, and matching jersey.
How long is a game?
A basketball game is generally divided into two halves, each ranging from twelve to twenty-four minutes (depending on the league). Many youth leagues play four quarters (as does the National Basketball Association). Play starts with a “jump ball” at center court. After each quarter (or at halftime) teams switch sides. Each team is permitted a certain number of time-outs per half (again depending on league rules). If a game ends in a tie, overtime periods of up to five minutes are usually played until one team outscores the other to win.
Great Shot
Jump Shot - A shot performed while jumping in the air in which the ball is released at the highest point off the ground. It is often used when shooting over a defender trying to block the ball.
Lay-up - Describes when a player moves to the hoop with the ball, steps up toward the rim, and rolls the ball off his or her fingertips into the basket.
Bank Shot - A shot in which the ball first touches the backboard before it goes into the hoop. A player will often try a bank shot when shooting from a difficult angle.
Dunk (or Jam) - A player jumps in the air and slams the ball into the basket.
Hook Shot - A one-handed shot usually taken from near or inside the key. The shooter faces sideways to the hoop and arcs the ball over the defending player.
Free Throw - A free shot taken from the foul line as the result of a foul. If a player is fouled while in the act of shooting the ball and misses the shot, he or she is given two free throws. If the shooter is fouled but makes the basket then only one free throw is taken. Also, if a non-shooting player is fouled and the opposing team is over its limit of “team fouls,” the fouled player goes to the line to shoot a “one-and-one.”
Let's Get Personal!
Personal Foul - Called when illegal body contact occurs between opposing player. Common examples are holding, charging, tripping, blocking, pushing, or interference. A personal foul results in either a player taking free throws or a team losing possession of the ball.
Charging - Called when a player moving with the ball runs into a defender who has established a set guarding position. Possession of the ball goes to the defense.
Blocking - A defensive player may not stand in the way of a dribbling player unless that defender has established a legal guarding stance.
Technical Foul - Called against any player or coach for unsportsmanlike conduct such as swearing or arguing with a referee. A technical foul awards the other team at least one free throw and possession of the ball. If a player or coach receives two technical fouls, he or she is removed from the game.
Three-second Violation - An offensive player without the ball may not stand in the free-throw lane for more than three seconds. Infraction of this rule results in a “turnover.”
Five-second Rule - A closely guarded player holding the ball has five seconds to either pass or advance the ball toward the hoop. When called, possession of the ball goes to the opposite team.
Ten-second Rule - After an “inbound,” offensive players have ten seconds to move the ball from their own “backcourt,” over the midcourt line into their “frontcourt.”
Backcourt Violation - An offensive player with the ball may not cross back over the half-court line once he or she has advanced the ball beyond midcourt. Doing so results in a turnover.
Inbound Violation - Players have five seconds to inbound the ball. If unable to do so the ball goes to the other team.
special thanks to Manhattanville College good luck this season!http://govaliants.com/
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
back to school
back to school, back to school supplies, back to school ideas, going back to school
Everything you wanted and more what to give this year for back to school, back to school supplies, back to school ideas, going back to school
It's that time of year of again! When the stores start getting stocked with all kinds of crazy school supplies, and everyone is talking about school time again!
We here at Sacred Hoops want you rather your a kid, a parent, or a teacher to have a great transition to the new school year!
Let's start off with a few things to know about back to school, back to school ideas, back to school supplies, back to school transition, back to school health and so much more!
The new and cool things to get or do this summer:
1. got to get a new pair of nikes!
2. got to get a some new styling jeans
3. got to get a books! books are in this year, and you must read them!
4. got to get a computer...though it's not a must. It's the most pratical idea to get.
5. got to get healthy
What not to get before this school year
1. don't get a new ipod...they are sort of out.
2. don't get sucked into the old school comeback game systems...just wait until the new and better comes out!
3. don't get new lunch box or anything...brown baggin it back in!
4. don't get stuck with the hectic and crazy pace...take time!
5. don't get all caught up in trends...be your own person!
Now, for teachers check out some of these cool games and icebreakers for you. To help you get to know your students better, and getting back to school flow again!
What are you waiting for check these awesome icebreakers here!
Stay healthy, check out back to school great tips for all to help you watch your weight and stay healthy.
Sometimes there is fear, scared, and anxiety with kids of all ages going back to school. Rather they are on there way to college, middle school, high school, or maybe just there first day of school point! Here are some great tips tha we hav for you as parents and children to try!
1. Start a tradiation together to do every year a new school year starts. (such as.. before school starts is going to visit the school and talking with any teachers that may be around)
2. Make sure they get plenty of rest the night before the first day of school...sometimes it might mean for them to take a tylenol to help them rest better.
3. Have a prayer at the pole for you kids. Take your kid or kids and go to there school and pray with them and for them at the pole! Why not start the school year off with prayer we couldn't think of any better way!
4. Help them get organized and there classes down! structure, organization, repeat, plan, and repeat!
5. Get them in a normal day routine. Rather it's a routine with breakfast every morning which would be a great routine. Routine of afterschool activities, or whatever it is..if it's just a normal routine. It helps kids do better in school to have a solid scheduled routine that they can get a hang of!
Featured store of the week
Shop TheSportsAuthority.com for Basketball Gear!
You'll find the greatest basketballs for any player, and we all know
that the basketball presaeason is starting soon! Throw in an goal,
basket, and a great pair of shoes and get the hoops working today!
Everything you wanted and more what to give this year for back to school, back to school supplies, back to school ideas, going back to school
It's that time of year of again! When the stores start getting stocked with all kinds of crazy school supplies, and everyone is talking about school time again!
We here at Sacred Hoops want you rather your a kid, a parent, or a teacher to have a great transition to the new school year!
Let's start off with a few things to know about back to school, back to school ideas, back to school supplies, back to school transition, back to school health and so much more!
The new and cool things to get or do this summer:
1. got to get a new pair of nikes!
2. got to get a some new styling jeans
3. got to get a books! books are in this year, and you must read them!
4. got to get a computer...though it's not a must. It's the most pratical idea to get.
5. got to get healthy
What not to get before this school year
1. don't get a new ipod...they are sort of out.
2. don't get sucked into the old school comeback game systems...just wait until the new and better comes out!
3. don't get new lunch box or anything...brown baggin it back in!
4. don't get stuck with the hectic and crazy pace...take time!
5. don't get all caught up in trends...be your own person!
Now, for teachers check out some of these cool games and icebreakers for you. To help you get to know your students better, and getting back to school flow again!
What are you waiting for check these awesome icebreakers here!
Stay healthy, check out back to school great tips for all to help you watch your weight and stay healthy.
Sometimes there is fear, scared, and anxiety with kids of all ages going back to school. Rather they are on there way to college, middle school, high school, or maybe just there first day of school point! Here are some great tips tha we hav for you as parents and children to try!
1. Start a tradiation together to do every year a new school year starts. (such as.. before school starts is going to visit the school and talking with any teachers that may be around)
2. Make sure they get plenty of rest the night before the first day of school...sometimes it might mean for them to take a tylenol to help them rest better.
3. Have a prayer at the pole for you kids. Take your kid or kids and go to there school and pray with them and for them at the pole! Why not start the school year off with prayer we couldn't think of any better way!
4. Help them get organized and there classes down! structure, organization, repeat, plan, and repeat!
5. Get them in a normal day routine. Rather it's a routine with breakfast every morning which would be a great routine. Routine of afterschool activities, or whatever it is..if it's just a normal routine. It helps kids do better in school to have a solid scheduled routine that they can get a hang of!
Featured store of the week
Shop TheSportsAuthority.com for Basketball Gear!
You'll find the greatest basketballs for any player, and we all know
that the basketball presaeason is starting soon! Throw in an goal,
basket, and a great pair of shoes and get the hoops working today!
Don't be a benchwarmer! Get in the game this Christmas with Official NBA headwear from lids.com Basketball Caps.
adidas basketball store$$ Premier
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Basketball Gear from Sportmant $$ Premier
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back systems, Uniforms-Socks and more.
Dick's Sporting Features Basketball Equipment$$ Premier
Fans of the hoop game are going to love Dick's Sporting Goods for their
large selection of basketballs, basketball equipment, and basketball
equipment. With their In the Spotlight Specials, a huge selection of
apparel and footwear for adults and children, as well as balls,
portable and in-ground backboard systems, court accessories. Look for
NBA memorabilia too Shop Dickssportinggoods.com for NBA Basketball
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Fogdog Sports$$ Premier
Shop for great Basketball fan gear here! Fogdog Sports carries a
complete line of sporting good products. Now you can relive every dunk,
jumper and block along the way with Fogdog's exclusive NBA event
merchandise.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Easy Guides To Choose Different Sport Shoes
Easy Guides To Choose Different Sport Shoes
Wearing the right shoes is an important aspect of foot health. Better to be careful when choosing shoes. If you buy wrong shoes it can cause foot problems. Even though, that doesn’t mean the right shoes can correct your problem. It can only prevent problem on your foot.
If you like sports -- basketball, golf or just walking -- choose the best shoes. Bad shoes can lead not only to foot and ankle problems, but leg, hip, and even back pain as well. That's because alignment begins with your feet and moves up to influence the rest of your body.
Sure there are other activities you do during your life time. Starting with walking around the house or traveling to work or maybe doing exercise and other activities, there are always shoes for all situations. Each shoe has their own characteristic such as look, feel, smell and how the shoes react to you, the wearer.
Here are some checklists you need to know when buying shoes.
* Check the shoes closely by touching it.
* Check whether the soles is strong and flexible when gripping the surface
* Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces.
* Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area.
* Shoes made of leather are best because leather breathe like skin and mold to your foot.
* Don’t buy shoes if not comfortable.
* Don't plan on shoes stretching with wear.
* Try shoes for both feet. Each foot is often different size.
* Do shoes shopping at the end of the day because feet swell to their largest at that time. That’s why always buy shoes for the biggest foot.
* Size depends on shoe make and style, too. Don't insist you always wear one size if the next feels better.
* The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open.
If you already know what you should do before buying shoes, another thing you have to consider is deciding which shoes for what occasion. Obviously you would not play tennis wearing your high heel dress shoes, right?
Here are some of the shoes that most people would have:
1. Dress shoes: This include dress boot, bridal shoes, prom shoes etc. You can wear dress shoes to formal occasion such as to a dinner, job interview or school event. At least you need one pair of dress shoes, specially the simple traditional dressy shoe which is a mid height heel at about 2.5 or 3 inches high, black and opened toe.
2. Casual Shoes: This includes sneaker, sandal, boot, etc. This is for more relax occasion. It can be any shoes with various colors, style and for any occasion. This shoe is more reflecting your taste, your favorite colors and your interests. Casual shoes can be inexpensive, since it is made of different material, not merely leather. The color is so various, that you can choose what ever color you like. You can wear it for shopping, relaxing, to cinema etc.
3. Athletic Shoes: It includes all sport shoes. There are so many brands that you can choose, but there are a few brand which specialize in sport footwear such as Adidas. You wear athletic shoes during your exercise, jogging, walking, running and other sport activities. However, currently there are some people also consider this type of shoes as casual shoes, so they wear it everyday for their activity. That’s okay too.
Shoes not only influence how others perceive you but they also influence how you views yourself. From the style you chooses and how well you are maintained, people can determine the stock your places on their appearance. Show yourself that you are a classy person by wearing the right shoes!
About The Author
Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit her Website http://www.basketballshoes101.info.
Wearing the right shoes is an important aspect of foot health. Better to be careful when choosing shoes. If you buy wrong shoes it can cause foot problems. Even though, that doesn’t mean the right shoes can correct your problem. It can only prevent problem on your foot.
If you like sports -- basketball, golf or just walking -- choose the best shoes. Bad shoes can lead not only to foot and ankle problems, but leg, hip, and even back pain as well. That's because alignment begins with your feet and moves up to influence the rest of your body.
Sure there are other activities you do during your life time. Starting with walking around the house or traveling to work or maybe doing exercise and other activities, there are always shoes for all situations. Each shoe has their own characteristic such as look, feel, smell and how the shoes react to you, the wearer.
Here are some checklists you need to know when buying shoes.
* Check the shoes closely by touching it.
* Check whether the soles is strong and flexible when gripping the surface
* Insoles should be cushioned to absorb the jolts of walking on hard surfaces.
* Arch supports distribute weight over a wider area.
* Shoes made of leather are best because leather breathe like skin and mold to your foot.
* Don’t buy shoes if not comfortable.
* Don't plan on shoes stretching with wear.
* Try shoes for both feet. Each foot is often different size.
* Do shoes shopping at the end of the day because feet swell to their largest at that time. That’s why always buy shoes for the biggest foot.
* Size depends on shoe make and style, too. Don't insist you always wear one size if the next feels better.
* The heel should fit snugly and the instep should not gape open.
If you already know what you should do before buying shoes, another thing you have to consider is deciding which shoes for what occasion. Obviously you would not play tennis wearing your high heel dress shoes, right?
Here are some of the shoes that most people would have:
1. Dress shoes: This include dress boot, bridal shoes, prom shoes etc. You can wear dress shoes to formal occasion such as to a dinner, job interview or school event. At least you need one pair of dress shoes, specially the simple traditional dressy shoe which is a mid height heel at about 2.5 or 3 inches high, black and opened toe.
2. Casual Shoes: This includes sneaker, sandal, boot, etc. This is for more relax occasion. It can be any shoes with various colors, style and for any occasion. This shoe is more reflecting your taste, your favorite colors and your interests. Casual shoes can be inexpensive, since it is made of different material, not merely leather. The color is so various, that you can choose what ever color you like. You can wear it for shopping, relaxing, to cinema etc.
3. Athletic Shoes: It includes all sport shoes. There are so many brands that you can choose, but there are a few brand which specialize in sport footwear such as Adidas. You wear athletic shoes during your exercise, jogging, walking, running and other sport activities. However, currently there are some people also consider this type of shoes as casual shoes, so they wear it everyday for their activity. That’s okay too.
Shoes not only influence how others perceive you but they also influence how you views yourself. From the style you chooses and how well you are maintained, people can determine the stock your places on their appearance. Show yourself that you are a classy person by wearing the right shoes!
About The Author
Diana Claire lifelong for footwear led her became footwear reviewer. Visit her Website http://www.basketballshoes101.info.
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Sports Supplement
Sports Supplement
Sports Supplement – what is it?
We are all aware of what is a nutrition or diet supplement, but what is a sports supplement? A sport supplement is a subcategory of nutrition supplements. The sports supplement is associated with rising sport results, intensifying training, lowering the consequences like muscle pane, etc. Many athletes use some type of sports supplement or supplements, but if you are an athlete you need to be careful as some of the chemicals used in production of supplements or some of the supplements themselves can be on the banned substance list.
Sports Supplement – caffeine.
Caffeine is an example of a sports supplement. Athletes have used caffeine for a long time as it helps them to stay alert and improve endurance. A good thing about caffeine is that there was a lot of research done about it. According to many sport researchers, caffeine supplements claim that caffeine improves athletic performance, increases energy, delays fatigue, improves fat burning, and enhances body fat loss.
Sports Supplement – protein.
Protein is another example of a sports supplement. According to many athletes, high protein diets help to increase muscle mass and gain strength. Unfortunately there is no scientific proof of that nowadays. Protein supplements claim that protein supports muscle growth, increases muscle strength and mass, improves recovery, etc. Again, no research is available to prove these claims.
Sports Supplement – creatine.
Creatine is yet another example of a sports supplement. According to many sport researchers, creatine supplements seem to enable muscles to work harder before becoming fatigued. Creatine supplements claim that creatine improves high power performance of short duration, increases muscle mass, delays fatigue. If you are an athlete, you need to be careful about using creatine sports supplements as there is very little research regarding safety of creatine.
About the Author
Additional interesting content
at www.nutritional-supplement-4u.com
Sports Supplement – what is it?
We are all aware of what is a nutrition or diet supplement, but what is a sports supplement? A sport supplement is a subcategory of nutrition supplements. The sports supplement is associated with rising sport results, intensifying training, lowering the consequences like muscle pane, etc. Many athletes use some type of sports supplement or supplements, but if you are an athlete you need to be careful as some of the chemicals used in production of supplements or some of the supplements themselves can be on the banned substance list.
Sports Supplement – caffeine.
Caffeine is an example of a sports supplement. Athletes have used caffeine for a long time as it helps them to stay alert and improve endurance. A good thing about caffeine is that there was a lot of research done about it. According to many sport researchers, caffeine supplements claim that caffeine improves athletic performance, increases energy, delays fatigue, improves fat burning, and enhances body fat loss.
Sports Supplement – protein.
Protein is another example of a sports supplement. According to many athletes, high protein diets help to increase muscle mass and gain strength. Unfortunately there is no scientific proof of that nowadays. Protein supplements claim that protein supports muscle growth, increases muscle strength and mass, improves recovery, etc. Again, no research is available to prove these claims.
Sports Supplement – creatine.
Creatine is yet another example of a sports supplement. According to many sport researchers, creatine supplements seem to enable muscles to work harder before becoming fatigued. Creatine supplements claim that creatine improves high power performance of short duration, increases muscle mass, delays fatigue. If you are an athlete, you need to be careful about using creatine sports supplements as there is very little research regarding safety of creatine.
About the Author
Additional interesting content
at www.nutritional-supplement-4u.com
Sunday, July 10, 2005
The Origins Of Basketball
The Origins Of Basketball
Do you know the origin of basketball?
The origins of the game of basketball can be traced back to a gentleman by the name of Dr. James Naismith. In 1861, Naismith was born in Almonte, Ontario, Canada. During his early school days, Naismith would play a game called duck on a rock whereby the child would endeavor to knock the duck off the top of the rock with a toss of another rock.
Later on, Naismith would go on to McGill University in Montreal and would later become McGill University's Athletic Director. He would subsequently move on to YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts and in 1891, the game of basketball began.
Given the cold Massachusetts winters, Naismith needed to find a recreational activity that could be played indoors and he preferred a sport that would develop skill and one that was not exclusively relying on strength. The first game was played with two peach baskets for goals and a soccer ball.
Further to his credit, Naismith became a medical doctor specializing in sports physiology and a Presbyterian minister. Naismith was able to see his beloved sport of basketball, gain acceptance in numerous countries through the YMCA since 1893. As well, the sport of basketball was brought forth at the Berlin Olympics in 1936. As we speak, the game of basketball has become a very popular professional sport.
About The Author
Catherine Kenyeres is a freelance writer and publisher for http://www.best-4u-tickets.com. Catherine has written numerous articles for the sports enthusiast.
Do you know the origin of basketball?
The origins of the game of basketball can be traced back to a gentleman by the name of Dr. James Naismith. In 1861, Naismith was born in Almonte, Ontario, Canada. During his early school days, Naismith would play a game called duck on a rock whereby the child would endeavor to knock the duck off the top of the rock with a toss of another rock.
Later on, Naismith would go on to McGill University in Montreal and would later become McGill University's Athletic Director. He would subsequently move on to YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts and in 1891, the game of basketball began.
Given the cold Massachusetts winters, Naismith needed to find a recreational activity that could be played indoors and he preferred a sport that would develop skill and one that was not exclusively relying on strength. The first game was played with two peach baskets for goals and a soccer ball.
Further to his credit, Naismith became a medical doctor specializing in sports physiology and a Presbyterian minister. Naismith was able to see his beloved sport of basketball, gain acceptance in numerous countries through the YMCA since 1893. As well, the sport of basketball was brought forth at the Berlin Olympics in 1936. As we speak, the game of basketball has become a very popular professional sport.
About The Author
Catherine Kenyeres is a freelance writer and publisher for http://www.best-4u-tickets.com. Catherine has written numerous articles for the sports enthusiast.
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