Football Memorabilia and Programmes

Go to a sportsman's dinner at your local football club and the evening often ends with an auction of football memorabilia. Up for auction are usually signed pictures of players and signed shirts. These can attract big bids and are often snapped up by the well-heeled.

However, there is a form of collecting such memorabilia which need not be anywhere near as expensive. It is collecting football programmes. Now usually dubbed the matchday magazine the football programme is bought by many of us who attend games. They can be overpriced glossy efforts in the professional game, to more humble but just as informative publications in the lower reaches of the non-league.

To be a collector you need not only keep all your programmes but ensure they remain in tip-top condition. Many supporters also collect programmes from other clubs, while the real aficionados go for rarer programmes from years past. These can be very valuable.

Collecting Can Become A Lifelong Pursuit

Many of us developed our passion for collecting football programmes during childhood. When we were taken to our first game we were bought the match day programme. And ever since then we have continued the ritual of acquiring a programme every time we go to a game.

What makes us programme collectors different from other football fans is that we treasure our collections. They are stored away and kept in as good a condition as when they were first bought.

What became an interest in match day programmes when we were children continued when we grew up into adulthood. It became a lifelong pursuit. And we developed it further.

Where once upon a time we only bought programmes for our favourite team, both home and away, we began looking for ones from other clubs. Then we looked for programmes from big games and from years past, quite prepared to spend a pretty penny on them if we saw fit.

Collectors and the Big Game

Some football programme collectors prefer to collect programmes from big games. These are often for cup finals for competitions such as the FA Cup, League Cup, the Scottish FA and League Cups and the Champions League.

There is also a market for cup final programmes from competitions which no longer exist. These include the likes of the Watneys Cup, the Anglo-Scottish Cup the UEFA Cup and the European Cup Winners Cup.

The main problem about collecting big game programmes is getting hold of them. If you can get a ticket for a game you can always buy one there. But what about the game you can't attend, or those programmes from competitions which no longer exist?

Then you have to buy them, either on the internet or at programme fairs. But be aware, rare programmes are often expensive. But if you are lucky enough to acquire one it can be quite an investment.

Visit Vintage Football Programmes for a great selection of pre-1970 football programmes and football memorabilia.

View owner article here

Examples of Soccer Drills for Young Players

Soccer is a great way to get kids away from their electronics and to get them outdoors and exercising instead. This is an easy game to get started with and it does not cost a lot for the parents to get their children involved. It can be difficult once the kids are all together to get them start learning the fundamentals. Thankfully, there are some great drills that entice children to want to learn the game and it makes the learning fun. The following are some examples of soccer drills for young players:

Pirate Treasure - This game is also a drill that teaches children skills at both dribbling the ball and accuracy at shooting. Half the team is the pirates guarding the treasure and the other half of the team are trying to get to the treasure. This treasure is cones that are placed at one end of the pitch. One player battles two defenders and attempts to dribble past them. When the knock down the cones, they get a point for their "treasure".
Defending the Dribble - Using cones, set up a perimeter in the middle of the pitch by placing four cones equidistant from each other. The team should be divided into two groups with each wearing different colors. One color plays offense and the other plays defense. One player from defense is in the middle of the perimeter to attempt to steal the ball from the offensive player who has to make it past the defender. If he does, the ball goes to the player on the opposite side and so on. If the defender gets the ball, the sides are switched and the offensive player becomes the defender.
Keep Away - Probably one of the most common and easiest of all the soccer drills for young players. Keep away builds up defending and dribbling skills. Start with a circle that is marked off by using cones. The circle should be at least the diameter of half the pitch. Two players will act as defenders and the rest of the team are trying to keep the ball away from them. If a defender gets the ball, the player who lost it becomes a defender.

Getting the kids to have fun and exercise is not hard to do when there are so many fun drills that keeps them on their toes and interested in the game. If none of the above appeals to your team, use the examples to help to create your own game for them instead. Just remember to keep it fun and the kids can follow the lead easily.

About the Author:

Lisa Mason is a freelance writer with a specialty in Internet content and SEO articles and the author of How to Earn a Living Writing for the Internet. She has written thousands of articles, hundreds of ebooks and thousands of website pages and related content in more than 10 years as a professional writer.

See her website for a free article writing template guide as well as more writing tips and info on the writing services she offers.

View owner article here

2011 Belongs to Robin Van Persie

Messi and Ronaldo are indisputably the world's finest attacking players but is Robin van Persie that far behind them? The flying Dutchman (warning: bad puns may continue) has scored 34 Premier League goals in 2011 from the same number of matches, and with two games left in the year he has every chance of setting a new league record.

With fixtures against Wolves and QPR still to come he needs three goals to beat Alan Shearer's total of 36 in 1995. What is even more remarkable is that if he is to set a new benchmark he will have to do it from six fewer games than England's balding finest. He is currently level with fellow Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, although the French player took 39 games to reach his final total.

Arsenal fans may well wonder what might have been had van Persie been able to take to the field more regularly during his seven years at the club. His career in North London has been blighted by injuries, limiting his contribution to the quest for silverware. Now, just as he is coming good, he lacks the support from his teammates but he works on regardless.

His goal tally from previous seasons was just four, five, 11, seven, 11 and nine. This then took a serious leap forward last season when he scored 18 times, incredibly all from January onwards after injury had ruled him out of the start of the campaign. Given he has 16 already this season he looks certain to improve on that mark and if he can do so over these next two games then Shearer's 16-year-old record will be broken.

At 28 he is at his at his peak and with his fitness being carefully managed by Wenger and the Emirates staff he should be able to feature to some degree in most of his side's fixtures. He has always had the talent but injuries prevented him from realising it. He looks a sure bet to be the top goalscorer in the Premier League this season and is the bookies' favourite at odds of 7/4. He began the season as 10/1 second favourite behind Wayne Rooney but as the goals have flown in his odds have tumbled.

He is excellent in the air, has a left foot capable of both supreme power and sublime skill, has improved his right foot (previously known as his "chocolate leg" - maybe that works better in Dutch?), good strength for a relatively slight player and typical Dutch football intelligence.

So, how far behind the two greats of La Liga is he? He clearly lacks the searing pace and acceleration of Messi and Ronaldo and cannot quite control a game the same way they can with their dribbling ability. However, his finishing is certainly comparable and it is worth noting that his goal feats have come in a side that, relatively, is struggling. In contrast the Argentine forward and Portguese...err, Pummeler, play surrounded by world class players in sides that regularly score five, six and more goals.

We wish van Persie good luck in his quest. In a side stripped of two of its finest creative players he has stepped up to the plate admirably and done so with humility, always praising his colleagues. Can he smash the record with a hat-trick against Wolves? The odds are 10/1 and we might just have a little bet on that.

About the author David is the Sports Editor at http://www.freebetsfreetips.com/ where there are loads of free bets, sporting previews, sports news stories and the latest bookmaker offers.

View owner article here

Soccer: The Yuppie Game

Every year when the World Cup is played, the whole world goes crazy with the exception of the United States. People in other countries are willing to riot and risk body and limb just to show their loyalty to their team while we in the U.S. ask, what's the big deal? The big deal is soccer is the most popular sport in the world. Why do we not have that passion for the sport in the U.S.?

The reason we do not have that passion in the U.S. is that most people today cannot afford to pay for their child to play competitive soccer. Sure, every city in America has a recreation league in which everyone can play. The trouble with the city leagues is the fact that everyone can play. Some kids are there because their parents need a baby sitter for a couple of hours and have no interest in the game or even trying. Boys and girls are placed on the same team. Skill levels vary from fair to just standing around. The volunteer coaches have little to no experience with coaching youth soccer.

Soccer clubs seem to be the best way to learn the game of soccer. The boys and girls are separated. All kids have an interest in the game and want to play. Most of the parents have played soccer and are willing to encourage and support their kids in this endeavor. Players are placed at skill levels where they can learn and yet not be hindered by players that are too advanced or under advanced. Coaches know the game of soccer and have the ability to teach players.

The problem with soccer clubs today is the cost. With the economy today, the average family cannot afford to pay the cost for their kid to join a soccer club. Many clubs want their players to use certain equipment and wear certain uniforms. The cost of the necessary equipment to properly equip a player can be more than the average family can afford.

Isn't it a shame when kids in a third world country grow up playing and wanting to be professional soccer players and our kids here in America cannot afford to have that same opportunity? Maybe that is why there is little interest in America when the World Cup is played.

I believe we can change this view in America. Join me this year and find an under-privileged kid and sponsor him or her to join a soccer club and provide them with all the necessary equipment to play. This may sound corny, but such a simple gesture may change a kid's life. Share your wealth.

Ken Hunt

View owner article here

Using Astrology to Predict the Euro 2012 Winner

Can astrology be used to predict sports? Can it be used to predict who the winner of the Euro 2012 will be? The idea of predicting sports events has drawn astrologers and betting enthusiasts since the days of the Roman chariot races.

Sometimes astrology is used not only to predict sporting events but even to influence the decisions of the coaches when training and choosing their squad. The most famous example that springs to mind is French coach Raymond Domenech, who has admitted that a passion for astrology has impacted his squad selection. The coach, who himself is an Aquarius with Virgo rising, cut some Scorpio and Leo players from his team based on their star signs.

Things did not really go Domenech's way during the 2010 World cup in South Africa, but he isn't the only public figure to rely on readings of the stars, But does it work? How would you go about doing it?

Obviously all sports differ and the astrological consideration will be different for individual sports and team sports as well the skills and conditions necessary for victory in different team sports; soccer and baseball are markedly different games and therefore the astrological signs to look for should be different.

The most simplified approach usually taken is the modified exercise in horary astrology. Horary astrology is an ancient branch of horoscopic astrology by which an astrologer attempts to answer a question by constructing a horoscope for the exact time at which the question was received. Different aspects of the chart are chosen to represent the two sides, whether home team vs. away team, favorite vs. underdog, or whatever is appropriate to that particular contest. The planetary rulers of the signs on those teams are evaluated and the side with the strongest astrological indications is generally declared the winner.

Another approach astrologers use to predict sports focuses on the birth charts of the competing parties. This will include the date of birth of the players and manager, the time of the game, the position of the moon during the game, etc... Using these variables they will attempt to determine who is best supported or worst affected by the astrological conditions during the match.

We cannot go into detail as to all the different signs and astrological figures used by some astrologers, but we can take a standard astrological approach for soccer/football and in particular, who will win the Euro 2012 Championship which will be held in Poland and the Ukraine from June 11 until July 1st.. One such simplified approach would be to use colors as being astrological significant.

Lists of colors to indicate clothing and objects signified in horary charts are given by most medieval astrologers. Some lists vary and there are some overlaps but generally the choice depends on shade and texture. For example: rich shades of purple are associated with Jupiter and the Sun, pale ones with Venus and the Moon.

Using these lists we can see which team colors will be the "strongest" during the time when the matches are played. The group stages will be played from June 8, 2012 until June 19,2012, with the knockout stages being held on June 21-june 28. The final will be played on July 1st, 2012.

During the group stages from June 8 to June 11 Jupiter will be in Taurus. The strong colors for this time are: green, yellow, white and light blue. Teams wearing these shirt colors are: England, Germany, Greece, Poland, Ireland, Italy, Sweden and Ukraine. On June 11 Jupiter will enter Gemini. The strong colors are: yellow, green and orange. Teams wearing these shirt colors are: Holland, Ireland, Sweden and Ukraine. From June 25 until the final on July 1st Jupiter will be in the sign of Cancer. The strongest colors at this time are green and white.

Using these simplified color charts and the dates the matches are played we can see that Ireland, which play in both green (home jersey) and white (away jersey) will have the strongest astrological benefits in regards to their jersey colors for this championship, but will they win the Euro 2012??? That remains to be seen...

To find the latest Euro 2012 shirts come visit us at Jersey99.com to buy the latest soccer shirts online.

Jersey99.com is a leading online retailer of football shirts with worldwide delivery and secure online payment. Customization options are available for name, numbers and patches. Come get all the latest club and national team jerseys at unbeatable prices.

View owner article here

Re-Programme Your Soccer Self Image

Using conscious logical thinking, you know the required response you want to a game situation. But its not you're logical mind that manages the response, its you're subconscious which controls heart rate, breathing, perspiration as well as the emotions of pride, resentment, fear or desire.

To alter any poor memories or attitudes you may have about you're game, first weaken them, then create better alternatives by using the methods outlined in this book. You will be able to go into activities and situations with an abundance of enthusiasm. Just give yourself time.

Clasp your hands in your usual way, fingers entwined and notice which thumb is on top. Let go, then clasp your hands again in such a way as the opposite thumb is on top. How does it feel? Awkward? Uncomfortable? It doesn't feel natural! This shows as you go into unfamiliar territory, the greater the psychological discomfort. Your performance may suffer temporarily as you make needed adjustments to your game, but change does that. If you were to place your hands and thumb the 'awkward' way every time, it would eventually feel natural, as your skill adjustments will.

You have talent. Can you adjust to a new squad or league? This method will show how you can perform with confidence:

Take a deep breath, sit back and relax as you exhale.

Tighten, then relax all your muscle groups.

Recall the sights, sounds, feelings of you playing at your very best.

In your minds eye imagine another you standing in front of you. This is the best that you have ever been, or ever will be, at the top of your game, every decision you make is the right one.

If you can't see it or imagine it, just know that it is there.

When you feel happy with the image in front of you, notice the way you stand, move, kick, pass, trap, head.

Notice a confident champion before you, spreading out accurate passes every time, an unstoppable outfielder or unbeatable goalkeeper.

Now step into your image and see through those eyes, hear through those ears and feel how good it feels to be that living image.

Keep that important feeling and make everything bigger, brighter, more powerful. Let it glow.

Step into another more intense image of yourself. Keep doing it several times more, getting bigger and brighter and stronger each time.

Take a few minutes if you wish to imagine yourself in any situation from the past where you want a bad memory changed to a more positive outcome, or see yourself in a future situation dominating play, being rewarded, excelling. You can, you know, forget about ever having had that problem.

Daydream and know it can come true.

Think of a future situation or event when having a positive feeling is desired. Taking a direct free kick for example. You have read the routine above, give it a go, or try this one next:

Using the Circle of Excellence exercise builds a positive mood and creates a state of mind which will be useful in the future.

In front of you, create the Circle of Excellence. This represents that state you require. Imagine it has a colour, maybe there is also a sound there, or a special word. This circle brings for you all the skills and positive assurance you want.

Now, return to a time when you had that positive resource, or imagine you had the right attitude, dedication and grit.

Take a deep breath, exhale...

Step inside the circle.

As you enter, imagine the bright colour shinning down and all around you, going into every cell of your body, from the top of your head, all the way down to the tip of your toes. Double the brightness. Hear the special sound or word. Imagine that feeling you have getting stronger, being absorbed by your body. Feel the strength and enthusiasm that glows from you.

Tell yourself you are more confident, talented, fitter.

Every breath you take, you take in more of the resource, your demoralising the opposition, everything you do is a bonus to the team. If you can see it in your minds eye, you can achieve it.

You can do the Circle of Excellence just about everywhere. Rehearse it first, then going onto the pitch imagine the circle before you as you cross the touch line. Do it as you take position for a set piece. How about stepping out of the shower, getting out of a car.

This article is taken from the book, Soccer Mind - Raise Your game with Mental Training by Paul M Maher PhD. An ebook can be downloaded from http://www.mindtrainingarena.com/ or a physical hardcopy can be purchased from Antony Rowe Publishing, Amazon or ordered from bookshops.

Paul M. Maher invites you to learn more about sports psychology and to maximise your sports potential by visiting http://www.mindtrainingarena.com/. You will gain access to invaluable eBooks, regardless of which sport you play. The latest are focused on cricket, soccer tennis and bodybuilding psychology.

View owner article here