Sports Biographies

"Not in my wildest boyhood dreams did I ever envision that a World Series would come along and I'd be the seventh game pitcher." Despite all odds, and a grueling nine-year stint in the minors that would dash most any other ballplayer's hope of reaching the major leagues, Jack Sanford found himself starring in the dramatic 1962 World Series, which pitted the San Francisco Giants against the mighty New York Yankees. This is the story of Jack's turbulent journey from a working-class childhood in Wellesley, Massachusetts, to baseball's ultimate stage; it is the story of perseverance in the face of continual discouragement; and it is the story of one boy's greatest dream turning, in an instant, into the unshakable nightmare that would haunt him the rest of his life.

Cardinal Dreams revitalizes the legacy of Charlie Peete, a key figure in integrating the minor leagues with the breakout potential to be the first established Black position player for the St. Louis Cardinals. Peete changed the world for the better and left a lasting impact on baseball before his tragic death at just 27 years old.

The first full biography to explore the complex and controversial life story of the most successful female motorsports champion ever.

The OU Radio broadcast team was in the Cotton Bowl press box in 2011, waiting for the obligatory 11 AM kick off between OU and Texas. Coach Merv Johnson was talking of the rain soaked 15-15 game in 1984, and how OU actually won. "We had the ball on a fumble before the (controversial) Stansberry play", Merv said. I later looked at the highlights and he was correct.It dawned on me that I need to write this down. (I was in my 5th game as the new statistician with the OU radio group.) I then started privately recording interesting interactions and a recap after Sooner games. Coach Merv had famously said he would not write a book, because he did not want to move, but I would still document happenings that maybe my daughters and Coach's family may appreciate. I later decided Sooner fans may enjoy some of this stuff too, and we would still not have to relocate.

Amy Leslie's book is a fascinating collection of personal sketches of some of the greatest cricket players of all time. From the early pioneers of the sport to the modern-day superstars, these sketches offer a unique insight into the lives and personalities of these cricketing legends. If you are a fan of cricket or sports biographies, this book is a must-read.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

Arthur Rowe was an innovator at a time when English soccer was wedded to the tactics of Arsenal''s Herbert Chapman, whose style bypassed the midfield and much-depended on expensively imported talent. When other clubs who lacked similar spending power adopted Chapman''s approach, the English game morphed into a heavy dependence on longball football, beef-and-muscle, luck, and the defensive frailties of opponents. Rowe''s approach, with which he gained instant success wherever he coached, depended instead on short, first-time passing to feet.Before injury ended Rowe''s Spurs playing career he had captained the club into the First Division and was also capped by England. Then, on the eve of the Second World War, the FA selected him to visit Hungary where he passed on his soccer beliefs to locals such as Gusztáv Sebes (who would utilise a very similar style to Rowe''s when coaching Hungary to two punishing defeats of England in the 1950s).When selected as manager of his boyhood side in 1949 Arthur immediately won successive Championships, yet his thrilling ''push-and-run'' style was oddly disparaged by certain of his club directors. Unable to rebuild, Rowe''s ageing side gradually faltered until poor health saw him step down in 1955. However ''pupil'' Bill Nicholson, benefiting from a level of financial support Arthur could only dream of led Spurs to their glories of the early 1960s.Simultaneously Arthur, with ''push-and-run'', was leading high-scoring and entertaining Crystal Palace into the of the decade. Sadly, further ill-health would see Rowe revert to a backroom role, but, contributing to youth development he saw Palace reach the First Division in a year earlier than his prediction. The club has rarely looked back since.''Push-and-run'' had pre-dated ''Total Football'' by two decades and the tactics of Sebes, Cruyff, Arteta, Guardiola and others can legitimately be traced back to this unfairly overlooked visionary.

"I leaned over the edge to let anyone see and touch the medal that Northern Ireland had brought away from the Olympics. It wasn't mine, it was ours."In September 1972, after years of hard work, sacrifice and dedication, Mary Peters won the gold medal for the pentathlon at the Munich Olympics. Her skill as an athlete could not be disputed, yet this was to mark only the beginning of her story.A beloved figure in her adopted home of Northern Ireland, Mary has spent decades promoting and encouraging its young sportspeople. From establishing its first high standard synthetic athletic track, to founding the Mary Peters Sports Trust, she has been a stalwart ambassador for sport and for Northern Ireland itself, and has received several royal honors in recognition of her services to sport and the community.With over 60 photographs set alongside lively commentary and insight into contemporary events, this is the definitive account of a truly remarkable woman: 'Our Mary'."A joyful trailblazer, Mary takes her place amongst those few special sporting stars who have achieved legendary status - both as an athlete and in her achievements since leaving the track." - DAME KATHERINE GRAINGER DBE"I owe so much to Mary Peters. I was a beneficiary of one of her foundation's grants, and for that, and for her continued support, I will always be grateful." - CARL FRAMPTON MBE"Mary Peters is an inspiration. She has used her success to encourage and support so many people in reaching their potential, personally demonstrating how to overcome the disappointments and celebrate the achievements." - JOSLYN HOYTE-SMITH OLY"An unparalleled influence in sport in Northern Ireland...and a role model and inspiration to so many people - including myself!" - HON. COL. DAME KELLY HOLMES MBE (MIL)

A compelling and sensationally honest read from one of the UK's leading and most recognised endurance runners.

Record-breaking England cricketer, wartime RAF hero, Tottenham Hotspur footballer, and husband to five wives... this is the captivating life of one of England's most remarkable yet often overlooked cricketing heroes.571 first-class matches from 1934 to 1958. 36,985 runs. 29th on all-time lists. Bill Edrich was one of the greatest cricket sensations of his time along with Denis Compton and Len Hutton. He was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1940 and played association football for Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur during the 1930s.In the first biography for 30 years, award-winning writer Leo McKinstry recounts Edrich's audacity both as a cricketer and RAF pilot. Edrich's flying prowess awarded him the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) and a promotion to Squadron Leader after his part in a courageous daylight raid over Cologne in August 1941.After the war, Edrich's life took a few wrong turns as he married an impressive five times and repeatedly clashed with the cricket hierarchy. As a consequence, he was left out of the tour of Australia in 1950-51 which ended up costing the team greatly. Edrich redeemed himself a few years later as he drove the victory home in the 1953 Ashes and helped to bring back the trophy in his last tour of Australia in 1954-55.A history of cricket victories, wartime glory and a life lived to the fullest, this compelling biography reveals the story of one of cricketing's greatest characters.

This is an illustrated series of short stories about all the sports that I have played throughout my life. I began playing competitive sports at the age of six and have continued playing sports to this day. I had the opportunity to learn many sports during my life and succeed at most of them. Most of the stories in this book are based on game situations.

On a still summer's evening in June 1974, Maurice Burton rode away from an elite field, on the broad concrete loop of Leicester's Saffron Lane Velodrome, to become Britain's first ever Black cycling champion. The event was televised; his parents were watching at home. For his Dad, it was a moment of intense pride; Rennal arrived in 1948 from Jamaica and made his home in South London, a member of the Windrush generation. Now he watched as his 18-year old son climbed onto the podium to receive his flowers and the red, white and blue striped national jersey. Boos rang out around the stadium. "They were booing because they didn't like the colour of my skin." The crowd's response to Burton in 1974 was symptomatic of the treatment meted out to him by the cycling establishment and wider society: racism, calculated indifference, and exclusion. After being overlooked for Olympic selection despite beating those selected, he turned his back on the UK and moved to Belgium where he rode professionally on the "6-day" circuit across Europe and around the world; a rolling circus of intense indoor racing; a realm of extreme effort, heroes, villains, spectacular triumphs and savage falls. He was the first Black 6-day rider since the era of Major Taylor, some 75 years before. This is the authorised biography of Maurice Burton, written by Paul Jones. It brings his story to the forefront of the British sporting narrative, and reasserts his place as a pioneer in our collective cultural history. The book looks in detail at his formative years, his experiences as the child of a Windrush generation father, his parents' marriage and their challenges as a mixed race couple in 1950s Britain, as well as his experiences growing up in South London. It moves through Burton's experiences cycling in the UK, before switching to the 6-day circuit; in Gent, Berlin, Milan, Paris and Buenos Aires, then his return to London in 1984. It is a vivid account of a life lived to the fullest, in the face of huge challenges, culminating in him becoming a successful business owner in South London and a community leader; a visible representation of triumph over adversity.

This is a story of a noble Coach who dedicated her life in developing under the leadership of many great spiritual leaders, professional Principal, Educators and Coaches to assist her players in becoming healthy, highly education & wealth individual of the body, mind and soul. In this book, Doctor Coach is a Physical Education teacher and a High School Coach who wen the extra mile to support her student athletes. She became a mother away from home for many of her students who came from poverty environment. She tell the story of how she assisted her student athletes in using their gifting as an athlete to enhance their quality of like. Many of her student athletes tributed over their difficulties and become doctors, five-fold ministers, teachers, pharmacist, coaches and productive professional people in live. Dr. Coach gave her life to serving her students and searching for the best possible life and education achievable for a student athlete. She was a loving coach, unselfish and gave her students unconditional love regardless of race, creed or sex.

Are you ready to step into the world of basketball giants? Join us on an extraordinary journey through the annals of NBA history as we unveil the untold stories of the towering titans who redefined the game. In "Towering Above the Rest: Basketball's Elite Big Men," we delve deep into the lives and careers of the NBA players who stood tall at an astonishing 7 feet or taller, leaving an indelible mark on the sport before their retirement in 1990.Get ready to be captivated by the fascinating narratives of these extraordinary athletes. From their early years filled with towering dreams to the heights of their professional success, each player's journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of greatness. Artis Gilmore, Frank Oleynick, Gary Alcorn, Chuck Aleksinas, Dave Newmark, and Stuart Gray-they were more than just tall figures on the court; they were basketball's giants, transcending the boundaries of the game itself.Uncover the hidden gems of basketball history as we explore their extraordinary tales. Witness the growth spurts that propelled these athletes from ordinary heights to towering proportions, revealing the fascinating science and wonders of human development. Discover the trials and triumphs they faced during their college years, where legends were born and rivalries ignited.Immerse yourself in the excitement of their professional careers, from the explosive plays that left audiences in awe to the challenges they confronted as they navigated a game that often seemed designed for players of average height. Experience the triumphs and setbacks, the glory and heartbreak, as we unravel their journeys and expose the untold stories that shaped their legacies.But this book is not just about basketball; it's about the indomitable spirit of these remarkable individuals. Step into their lives beyond the court as we explore their post-basketball adventures. Discover how they channeled their passion and skills into new endeavors, leaving an enduring impact on the world beyond the hardwood."Towering Above the Rest: Basketball's Elite Big Men" is a gripping and captivating exploration of the game's most iconic figures. Through meticulous research, riveting storytelling, and unparalleled insights, this book offers an intimate portrait of the giants who loomed large in the NBA's formative years.Don't miss your chance to own this definitive guide to basketball's elite big men. Delve into the triumphs, the trials, and the untold stories of the players who stood head and shoulders above the competition. With "Towering Above the Rest," prepare to be transported to an era of awe-inspiring athleticism and larger-than-life legends.

Are you ready to stand tall in the realm of basketball history? From the intense rivalries that defined the game in the 1970s to the rise of the modern era of basketball in the 1990s, dive into the captivating pages of "Tallest to Ever Play: Legends of the Game," a thrilling exploration of the towering figures who have left an indelible mark on the sport. From Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's skyhook mastery to Artis Gilmore's dominating presence in the paint, this book unveils the untold stories of the game's tallest legends.Step onto the court and witness the extraordinary journeys of these giants of the game. Discover the challenges they faced, the triumphs they achieved, and the lasting impact they left on basketball's grand tapestry. As you turn each page, you'll be transported into the mesmerizing world of soaring dunks, thunderous rebounds, and awe-inspiring athleticism.Feel the passion and intensity that fueled Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's pursuit of greatness. Explore his evolution from a young prodigy to an iconic figure, breaking records and captivating audiences with his graceful moves. Uncover the secrets behind his unparalleled scoring prowess and witness the birth of an enduring basketball legacy.Journey alongside Artis Gilmore as he dominates both the ABA and NBA, showcasing his unmatched skills and tenacity. Experience the raw power of his dunks and the strategic brilliance of his play. Discover how his imposing presence in the paint earned him the respect and admiration of teammates, opponents, and fans alike.Relive the legendary battles waged by Marvin Webster, Tom Burleson, Mel Counts, and Jim McDaniels as they towered over their opponents, leaving an indelible mark on the court. Marvel at their athleticism, admire their dedication, and uncover the untold stories that propelled them to greatness.But "Tallest to Ever Play: Legends of the Game" is not just a celebration of towering height-it's a tribute to the resilience, skill, and unwavering passion that defined these basketball legends. Discover the personal struggles they overcame, the sacrifices they made, and the immeasurable impact they had on the game and its future generations.Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this book will captivate you from start to finish. Immerse yourself in the rich narratives, the breathtaking highlights, and the behind-the-scenes revelations that make "Tallest to Ever Play: Legends of the Game" an absolute must-read for basketball enthusiasts.Don't miss your chance to embark on this thrilling journey through the heights of basketball history. Get your copy of "Tallest to Ever Play: Legends of the Game" and experience the awe-inspiring stories of these larger-than-life athletes who forever changed the game we love.

Are you ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the annals of basketball history? Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating tales of towering giants who once graced the courts with their imposing presence. In "Stature and Success: The Story of Basketball's Seven-Footers," you'll uncover the untold stories of those who stood above the rest and left an indelible mark on the game.Step into the world of these larger-than-life athletes and discover the secrets behind their rise to prominence. This meticulously researched book takes you back to a time when basketball was a different beast, and the power of height was both a blessing and a curse. Gain a deep understanding of the game's evolution and how the dominance of these giants forever changed the landscape of basketball.Through the pages of this captivating narrative, you'll meet extraordinary individuals like Neil Walk, who defied the odds to make his mark before retiring prematurely. Follow Mike Barr's journey as he navigates the challenges of limited playing time and unexpected trades, showcasing the resilience required to thrive in the world of professional sports. Uncover the enigmatic story of Rich Rinaldi, whose career was defined by fleeting moments and unfulfilled potential.But it doesn't stop there. "Stature and Success" delves into the lives of Walter Dukes, Mel Counts, and Caldwell Jones, each with their own unique narratives that take you from the college courts to the heights of professional basketball. Relive the glory days, the triumphs, and the heartbreaks as these towering figures etch their names into the annals of the sport.As you journey through these compelling stories, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes of the game. This book goes beyond the headlines, shining a spotlight on lesser-known players whose contributions should not be overlooked. It challenges conventional narratives and encourages you to explore the depths of basketball history."Stature and Success" is not just a book about basketball; it's an immersive experience that will captivate both die-hard fans and casual enthusiasts alike. It invites you to witness the human drama, the triumphs and tribulations, and the enduring legacy of these seven-foot giants.Whether you're a passionate basketball fan seeking a deeper understanding of the sport's roots or simply a lover of riveting biographies, this book will leave you inspired and in awe. So don't miss out on this extraordinary journey into the world of basketball's towering figures. Open the pages of "Stature and Success: The Story of Basketball's Seven-Footers" and prepare to be captivated by a tale unlike any other.

One of the best parts of coaching boys aged 11 to 14 is you never know what they are going to do or say. Every interaction is a surprise. And while not every surprise is a treat, it is still an amazing time to help influence the life of another person for the better. growing up is not an easy journey. youth need the help and support of parents, family, teachers, and coaches.Yes, the job of a youth coach goes beyond leading a team. It is about helping children grow, develop, explore, learn, fail, succeed, and eventually become the person they have the potential to become. as john wooden says, "A good coach can change a game. A great coach can change a life."

"Carl Hayman, All Black 1000, once the most highly prized player in world rugby and a giant of the game in every sense - someone who was always respected, even feared. But at the end of seventeen years as a professional rugby player, the last eight played with the sole aim of setting up his family's future, Hayman's life began to unravel. In Head On, Hayman relives a remarkable rugby career, living out his boyhood dreams and fast-tracked into the All Blacks at 21, playing in a world cup and then moving to Europe where he became one of the best-paid players on the planet. But this book is also about the pressures on the modern athlete, where physical performance and commerce collide and players become victims of their own success"--Publisher description.

Pride of the Three Lions looks to the achievements of the England team who won the World Cup in 1966.It tells their stories from the viewpoint of families who made them, journeying through periods of profound social change.

Volleyball is not just a sport. It is one of the many beautiful languages that help us understand, express, and experience life. Join Aziz, a senior volleyball player, as he recounts his experiences with coed volleyball at Montgomery Blair High School, retracing the journey that led him to discover the sport and come across a group of individuals who would come to be his family, capturing the ups and downs of the three years that would eventually culminate in a season unlike any other, and helped him gain a new perspective on life. Dear Volleyball is his love letter to the sport of volleyball and like any love letter, one must come to intimately know another for a letter to truly capture a sense of genuine love and appreciation. Anyone who has ever loved any endeavor can find something to connect to in this story. Above all else, this story is one about learning to live life with a smile on our face, letting the journey take us wherever while enjoying the view, the people, and the beautiful times along the way.

Experience 50 years of wrestling history through the iconic voice of Jim Ross. For wrestling fans, Jim Ross’ voice is the soundtrack of an era. This book is your ringside ticket to wrestling’s most unforgettable moments—from the announcer who made them iconic. In the last 50 years, professional wrestling has risen up from a collection of regional territories to become a global phenomenon—and Jim Ross has been there for it all. From the grit and glory days of the 1970s with NWA, to the rise of WCW and the heyday of WWF and WWE, to signing on as on-air talent and senior advisor for wrestling’s newest chapter at AEW, Jim Ross has long had the best seat in the house. Now, in 50 definitive chapters, chronicling 50 iconic calls across 50 unforgettable years, Business Is About to Pick Up! takes you into the ring, and behind the scenes, as only Jim Ross can. Immerse yourself in sports entertainment’s most dramatic moments, biggest shocks, and history-making firsts—from watershed collisions like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin versus Bret “Hitman” Hart to industry-shaping milestones like the debut of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the rise of John Cena and Dave Bautista as Hollywood A-list stars, and the birth of All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Then debate which moments Jim Ross just had to include . . . and what else should’ve made his list. This book is a celebration of pro wrestling’s past, present, and future—narrated by the Voice of Wrestling himself, who was ringside to call it all.

The incredible, little-known story of one of the most promising race car drivers in the United States who defied the odds as a Black woman in the sport of auto racing.Early in her career, Cheryl Glass looked like a lock to become the first Black woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500. She had everything she could need to be successful in the sport of auto racing. But after being repeatedly injured and pushing for too much too soon, her racing career ended, and the rest of her life crashed with it.In The First Lady of Dirt: The Triumphs and Tragedy of Racing Pioneer Cheryl Glass, Bill Poehler follows Cheryl Glass¿s meteoric rise in the world. As a child Cheryl had a brilliant mind and blew through school at a rapid pace, graduating from high school at age 16. When she started modeling, she was quickly in demand. And when Cheryl started driving race cars, she was immediately one of the best. Poehler recounts how Cheryl soon became a pioneer in the field as one of the few Black women in the sport, including the first to win the Skagit Speedway season finale as an 18-year-old rookie. But no matter how perfect her life seemed from the outside, there was more going on under the surface. She dealt with racist and sexist taunts from other drivers and fans throughout her career. She suffered major injuries, including repeated concussions. She had frequent encounters with neighbors and law enforcement. Overwhelmed by depression and mental illness, Cheryl committed suicide at age 35. Featuring exclusive interviews with Cheryl¿s mother, friends, and competitors, The First Lady of Dirt tells for the first time Cheryl¿s story in its entirety, from her highest highs as a race car driver to the debilitating circumstances around her death. It¿s the inspiring story of a racing pioneer and a tragic tale of the pressures that are often hidden from public view until it¿s too late.

THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING AND AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR'Tyson Fury is an amazing real-life champion' - Sylvester Stallone, star of Rocky'The People's Champion' - Times'A boxing phenomenon...the anarchic and enormous sports star may prove to be the last of the boxing greats' - John Sutherland, The TimesSon. Father. Husband. Brother. Fighter. Showman. Mental health champion. Told with unflinching honesty and rock-star charisma, Gloves Off by Tyson Fury is the autobiography of a sporting icon, the like of which we may never see again.The undefeated heavyweight champion Tyson Fury looks back on his life and career to understand his remarkable rise, fall, and rise again, which has seen him journey from the brink of suicide to boxing immortality, culminating in his sensational knockout victory against Dillian Whyte at Wembley Stadium in front of a record-breaking 94,000 fans.Tyson's book reveals surprising and personal new sides to his character: he opens up about his fairy-tale romance with beloved wife Paris, and their down-to-earth life raising six beautiful children. He describes how his Traveller upbringing forged him, and how his fighting family, including dad John and his brothers, have sustained him.In the process, Tyson discusses his mental health and weight battles, his faith and his greatest boxing experiences. He discloses deeply moving new stories: in the weeks before the biggest fight of his career, Tyson was sleeping on a hospital floor in intensive care tending to his baby daughter, Athena, who was born premature and fighting for her life.Funny, frank and never less than entertaining, this is Tyson Fury at his very best, as you have never read before.