Prior to the 1870s, Association Football tended to be enjoyed as a form of exercise at public schools or a game between friends in a local park. However, with the administrative skills of the likes of Charles Alcock, Francis Marindin, Arthur Kinnaird and William McGregor, the game grew to such an extent that it became an important part in the lives of both players and spectators as the century reached its end.The history of the early clubs, international games, as well as the growth of the professional clubs, are all encompassed in this book, including the likes of Aston Villa, Manchester United and Liverpool, when they started out as struggling little clubs.

This state-of-the-art Research Handbook provides a challenging and critical examination of the complex issues surrounding sports in contemporary societies. Featuring contributions from world-leading scholars, it focuses upon the impact of their research, together with significant social issues and controversies in sport. International and comprehensive, the Research Handbook is organised around the key themes of governance, economics, events, the athletes and the future. Chapters examine the various theoretical and methodological approaches undertaken by the contributors and outline the current state of knowledge, to demonstrate the social and economic impact of academic research, as well as the constraints on research influence. Written during the global coronavirus pandemic, chapters also reflect on the way in which the public health crisis has exposed social issues and fragilities. The Research Handbook on Sports and Society will be a beneficial read for students of all levels studying sports science, sociology and public policy. The insights offered by established researchers will aid students in further understanding key methodologies, and opportunities and challenges for research. They also include recommendations for future policy and practice grounded in substantial research evidence.

An illustrated compendium of kickass women in sport, from around the world and throughout history, including legends like Billie Jean King and modern-day superstars like Simone Biles and Dina Asher-Smith. The perfect book to inspire any sports fan. Meet your new superheroes Discover the fascinating stories behind 38 iconic and internationally renowned women in sport, all of them record-breakers, trailblazers and game-changers. Whether from the world of soccer, tennis, gymnastics, swimming, boxing or skiing, every one of these women has been a ground-breaker in her field. It's time these individuals took centre stage and had their achievements celebrated the world over. Be empowered and inspired by their extraordinary stories, their awesome achievements and their wonder-words of wisdom with this pocketbook of remarkable women from across the globe and throughout history. Among others, you will learn about the incredible lives and achievements of: Simone Biles Serena Williams Dina Asher-Smith Rachael Heyhoe Flint Jessica Ennis-Hill Nicola Adams Danica Patrick Paula Radcliffe Michelle Kwan Megan Rapinoe Ellen MacArthur Ibtihaj Muhammad Ronda Rousey Each inspiring profile also features a bespoke illustration.

Motto of the modern Olympics: Faster, Higher, Stronger. But now add Stranger! Stranger, as in the 1908 Olympic marathon, which featured Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, a 22-year-old pastry chef, and Champagne (yes, it was the runners' drink of choice). Or the 1948 "austerity games" in London--teams had to bring their own food, female athletes sewed their own uniforms. Or imagine rooting for these one-time Olympic sports: tug of war, firefighting, rope climb, live pigeon shooting, and--wait for it--painting. (Picasso for the gold!) Compulsively readable, highly entertaining, trivia- and curiosity-packed, Total Olympics is a glorious, photo-filled tapestry of legendary characters, forgotten records, crazy accomplishments, unbelievable feats, wacky contests, controversial moments, and more. As the author, Sports Illustrated's Jeremy Fuchs, writes, each Olympics is a mishmash of thousands of little stories during a glorious two-week adventure; multiply those thousand stories by 54 Olympic Games over 122 years, and voila--a collection of sports yarns unlike any other. Like the story of the "missing marathoner" whose official time was 54 years, 8 months, 6 days, 5 hours, 32 minutes, and 20.3 seconds. Or the rower who had to make way for ducklings--literally--yet still managed to win the gold. Or the gymnast who brought his team to victory while fighting through the pain of a broken knee. It's pure pleasure for the sports fan.