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Outdoor School Essentials: Survival Skills (Outdoor School)
by Odd DotOUTDOOR SCHOOL ESSENTIALS: SURVIVAL SKILLS is your must-have companion to the wild! These pocket-sized books from Odd Dot have quick references for what you need to know while on your next outdoor adventure. Flip through for simple diagrams and full-color illustrations on pitching tents, making a fire, first-aid, poisonous plants, dangerous animals, and more.Made of durable Tyvek material, these books are meant to last through any adventure! Waterproof and tear-proof makes these the perfect pocket-sized trove of information for kids to take outside. They're also 100% washable and 100% fun!Easy to digest at a glance, these travel-friendly books are made even more beautiful with full-color, vintage-inspired art and highly visual diagrams.
Life in the Ring: Lessons and Inspiration from the Sport of Boxing Including Muhammad Ali, Oscar de la Hoya, Jake Lamotta, George Foreman, Floyd Patterson, and Rocky Marciano
by John OdenMuch more than a book on boxing, Life in the Ring is equally historical, literary, and inspirational. Truly a one-of-a-kind book. There is no sport more unforgiving than boxing. Boxing represents the best of who we are as individuals. Those who have participated in the sport, at any level, can use the lessons they have learned in all aspects of their lives, from business, to politics, to personal relationships. People observing the sport can draw on the insight that boxing imparts in all phases of their lives. Life in the Ring gathers the wisdom and lore of the "sweet science" of boxing and organizes them into a single volume that is equally historical, literary, and inspirational. An invaluable compendium, Life in the Ring offers the stories of boxing legends, past and present, and draws inspiring lessons from the remarkable determination, fortitude, and willpower that made these men great. Included are such engaging themes and examples from the lives of legendary boxers as: * The Role of Courage and Confidence--Muhammad Ali * On Challenging Yourself--Oscar de la Hoya * The Quality of Being Tough--Jake LaMotta * Reinventing Yourself and Making a Comeback--George Foreman * Overcoming Obstacles through Persistence and Determination--James J. Braddock * Winning Without Shortcuts--Joe Calzaghe * Making Fear Your Friend--Floyd Patterson * Overcoming Pain--Rocky Marciano * The Power of Discipline and Preparation--Bernard Hopkins * On Giving Back--Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko. With a Foreword by the famed boxing writer, Bert Randolf Sugar, and exciting, relatable stories, Life in the Ring packs a fantastic punch for readers of all kinds.
Disco Demolition: The Night Disco Died
by Bob Odenkirk Paul Natkin Steve Dahl Dave Hoekstra"If you were young and shiftless--and viscerally repulsed by Abba--Steve Dahl was a god. And you were drawn to Disco Demolition." --ESPN.com.In the late 1970s, disco dominated radio airwaves, much to the dismay of rock music fans. To boost attendance at Comiskey Park, the White Sox and Chicago DJ legend Steve Dahl collaborated to host Disco Demolition on July 12, 1979. Admission to the park was ninety-eight cents and a disco record. Records were destroyed on the field between games, declaring absolutely how rock fans felt about disco.Attendance exceeded fifty thousand, far beyond anyone's estimations, and when fans stormed the field for the demolition, chaos ensued. Police cleared the field, Comiskey Park was evacuated, and the second game was cancelled--for the first time in MLB history. In collaboration with Steve Dahl, Disco Demolition examines the night that changed America's disco culture forever, featuring a foreword by Bob Odenkirk and over thirty interviews with sports and music icons, including Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick and KC and the Sunshine Band, conducted by journalist Dave Hoekstra. Also featuring a foreword by actor Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul, Breaking Bad) and photographs by Paul Natkin.Steve Dahl is an American radio personality and former columnist for the Chicago Tribune.Dave Hoekstra is a former columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times and a longtime radio host for WGN.Paul Natkin has photographed The Rolling Stones, Keith Richards, Brian Wilson, and many others. He was an official photographer of the Oprah Winfrey Show, and has shot magazine covers for Newsweek, Ebony, Spin, and People.
Lost Souls: Burning Sky
by Mel Odom Jordan WeismanIn this trilogy created by new media genius Jordan Weisman, the son of archeologists, Nathan is your typical kid--one of the smartest at his school, but fails at everything because he won't apply himself. Nathan is shocked when on his thirteenth birthday, he receives his birthright from the Mayan god Kukulkan: the ability to travel the frequencies and interact with spirits. The fate of the human race rests with Nathan, who must play a game with Kukulkan for the world's survival--all culminating with the end of the Mayan calendar on December 22, 2012. Now it is time for Nathan to use his newfound gifts, fulfill his potential, and save the world!
An Introduction to Performance Analysis of Sport (Routledge Studies in Sports Performance Analysis #6)
by Peter O'DonoghuePerformance analysis has become an essential tool for coaches, athletes, sports organisations and academic researchers. Collecting and interpreting performance data enables coaches to improve their training programmes, athletes to make better tactical decisions, sports organisations to manage teams more effectively, and researchers to develop a better understanding of sports performance. This book is an essential introduction to the fundamental principles of performance analysis of sport and how to develop and operate performance analysis systems. Containing worked examples from real sporting events throughout, the book introduces the basics of quantitative and qualitative performance analysis, reviews the different types of data and information that performance analysis can generate, and explains how to test for reliability. It presents a step-by-step guide to developing both manual and computerised analysis systems, and writing up and presenting findings from performance analysis programmes. Representing the most up-to-date, concise and engaging introduction to sports performance analysis, this book is an ideal course text for all introductory performance analysis courses, as well as an invaluable primer for coaches and practitioners in sport.
Research Methods for Sports Performance Analysis
by Peter O'DonoghueModern techniques of sports performance analysis enable the sport scientist, coach and athlete to objectively assess, and therefore improve upon, sporting performance. They are an important tool for any serious practitioner in sport and, as a result, performance analysis has become a key component of degree programmes in sport science and sports coaching. Research Methods for Sports Performance Analysis explains how to undertake a research project in performance analysis including: selection and specification of a research topic the research proposal gaining ethical approval for a study developing a performance analysis system testing a system for reliability analysing and discussing data writing up results. Covering the full research cycle and clearly introducing the key themes and issues in contemporary performance analysis, this is the only book that sports students will need to support a research project in performance analysis, from undergraduate dissertation to doctoral thesis. Including case studies, examples and data throughout, this book is essential reading for any student or practitioner with an interest in performance analysis, sports coaching or applied sport science.
Statistics for Sport and Exercise Studies: An Introduction
by Peter O'DonoghueStatistics for Sport and Exercise Studies guides the student through the full research process, from selecting the most appropriate statistical procedure, to analysing data, to the presentation of results, illustrating every key step in the process with clear examples, case-studies and data taken from real sport and exercise settings. Every chapter includes a range of features designed to help the student grasp the underlying concepts and relate each statistical procedure to their own research project, including definitions of key terms, practical exercises, worked examples and clear summaries. The book also offers an in-depth and practical guide to using SPSS in sport and exercise research, the most commonly used data analysis software in sport and exercise departments. In addition, a companion website includes more than 100 downloadable data sets and work sheets for use in or out of the classroom, full solutions to exercises contained in the book, plus over 1,300 PowerPoint slides for use by tutors and lecturers. Statistics for Sport and Exercise Studies is a complete, user-friendly introduction to the use of statistical tests, techniques and procedures in sport, exercise and related subjects. Visit the companion website at: www.routledge.com/cw/odonoghue
Data Analysis in Sport: Analysis, Visualisation And Decision-making In Sports Performance (Routledge Studies in Sports Performance Analysis)
by Peter O'Donoghue Lucy HolmesMaking sense of sports performance data can be a challenging task but is nevertheless an essential part of performance analysis investigations. Focusing on techniques used in the analysis of sport performance, this book introduces the fundamental principles of data analysis, explores the most important tools used in data analysis, and offers guidance on the presentation of results. The book covers key topics such as: The purpose of data analysis, from statistical analysis to algorithmic processing Commercial packages for performance and data analysis, including Focus, Sportscode, Dartfish, Prozone, Excel, SPSS and Matlab Effective use of statistical procedures in sport performance analysis Analysing data from manual notation systems, player tracking systems and computerized match analysis systems Creating visually appealing ‘dashboard’ interfaces for presenting data Assessing reliability. The book includes worked examples from real sport, offering clear guidance to the reader and bringing the subject to life. This book is invaluable reading for any student, researcher or analyst working in sport performance or undertaking a sport-related research project or methods course
Doing a Research Project in Sport Performance Analysis (Routledge Studies in Sports Performance Analysis)
by Peter O'Donoghue Lucy Holmes Gemma RobinsonThe research project or dissertation is a core component of any degree programme in the rapidly developing discipline of sport performance analysis. This highly practical and accessible book provides a complete step-by-step guide to doing a research project. Showcasing the very latest research methods, it covers the whole research process, from identifying a research question and system development to data collection, data analysis and writing up the results. Introducing the fundamentals of project planning and management, this book highlights the importance of research ethics and explains the differences between successful undergraduate and postgraduate projects. Full of expert advice and original insights that can be applied to theoretical and empirical research projects, it covers all the key aspects of conducting a degree-level research project, including: selecting a research topic and writing a research proposal working with a supervisor understanding research ethics implementing best practices for project management collecting, interpreting and presenting results. Doing a Research Project in Sport Performance Analysis is an indispensable guide for any student, lecturer or practitioner working in sport performance analysis.
Routledge Handbook of Sports Performance Analysis (Routledge International Handbooks)
by Peter O’Donoghue Tim McGarry Jaime SampaioSport performance analysis techniques help coaches, athletes and sport scientists develop an objective understanding of actual sport performance, as opposed to self-report, fitness tests or laboratory based experiments. For example, contemporary performance analysis enables elite sports people and coaches to obtain live feedback of match statistics and video sequences using flexible internet systems, systems that have become an indispensible tool for all those involved in high performance sport. The Routledge Handbook of Sports Performance Analysis is the most comprehensive guide to this exciting and dynamic branch of sport science ever to be published. The book explores performance analysis across the four main contexts in which it is commonly used: support for coaches and athletes; the media; judging sport contests, and academic research. It offers an up-to-date account of methodological advances in PA research, assesses the evidence underpinning contemporary theories of sport performance, and reviews developments in applied PA across a wide range of sports, from soccer to track and field athletics. Covering every important aspect of PA, including tactics, strategy, mechanical aspects of technique, physical aspects of performance such as work-rate, coach behaviour and referee behaviour, this is an essential reference for any serious student, researcher or practitioner working in sport performance analysis, sport coaching or high performance sport.
Mindful Walking: Walk Your Way to Mental and Physical Well-Being
by Hugh O'DonovanSix million years ago, the evolving human brain existed only to instruct our bodies to move. In Mindful Walking, psychologist Hugh O'Donovan takes us back to this very basic connection between the brain and the body - movement -- and looks at how, by focussing on the simple act of moving, we can achieve inner peace and physical well-being. Bringing together the concept of mindfulness in movement along with the three paths of change for a better life - talking, meditation and walking - Mindful Walking shows us how we can better manage the internal and external distractions that clog our path to mental happiness while also improving our physical health. With simple exercises on how to incorporate mindful walking into our everyday lives: from walking up the stairs to walking in the park or climbing a mountain, Mindful Walking is for seasoned walkers, city amblers or people learning how to walk again after illness. Take your first steps on the journey to physical health and mental happiness.
The Test: My Autobiography
by Brian O'DriscollThe number one bestselling autobiography of the greatest rugby player of our time: Brian O'Driscoll. Since 1999, when he made his international debut, there has been no greater player in world rugby than Brian O'Driscoll. In 2010 Rugby World magazine named him its world player of the decade - and since then the legend has only grown. Now, at the end of his amazing career - which culminated in fairy-tale fashion with Ireland's victory in the 2014 Six Nations championship - he tells his own story. Honest, gritty and thoughtful, Brian O'Driscoll's Autobiography is not just an essential sports book. It is an essential book about family, friends, hard work, courage and imagination.'Honest, charming and revealing - a thoroughly good read' Rugby World'After reading The Test I warmed even more to O'Driscoll as a player and a man. He stood for a new ethos in Irish sport that refused to accept mediocrity or glorious failure' Fergal Keane, Irish Times'O'Driscoll's honesty ... takes the reader to a place they simply have not been before' Vincent Hogan, Irish Independent'A must-read insight into the life and mind of Ireland's greatest rugby player' Irish Mail on Sunday'There are fascinating insights into the lengths he was willing to go to perform at the highest level' Sunday Business Post
Jags to Riches: The Cinderella Season of the Jacksonville Jaguars
by John Oehser Pete PriscoJags to Riches is the ultimate fan book chronicling the Jacksonville Jaguars' improbable run to the AFC Championship Game and within one game of going to the Super Bowl. In Jags to Riches Prisco and Oehser of the Florida Times Union cover the wildly successful 1996 season of Jacksonville's pro football team, a surprising development because the Jaguars were in only their second year and had compiled a dismal 4-12 record in their first. An expansion team in a city that had sought a pro grid franchise since 1979, its concentration had been on signing young athletes, with the expectation that they would be ready to make a major move in three years. And, although coach and general manager Tom Coughlin had gotten off to a bad start with the team members, he was an important contributor because he judged players solely on their ability and drive and not on their press clippings, according to the authors. In his first year, Coughlin's coaching reflected more of his college than his pro background: gradually he relaxed many of his rules, and the team was better for it. Most amazing was the record, since, after 11 games, it stood at 4-7; then came five straight wins in the regular season and play-off victories against highly favored Buffalo and Denver.
Bewegung und Sport gegen Burnout, Depressionen und Ängste
by Viola Oertel Silke MaturaDieser Ratgeber soll psychisch erkrankten Menschen helfen, von mehr Bewegung zu profitieren. Durch Burn-out, Depressionen oder Ängste entstehen oft Barrieren, die es für die Betroffenen noch schwerer machen, sich für mehr Aktivität im Alltag zu motivieren. Die erfahrenen Autorinnen erklären zunächst, warum Bewegung gerade für psychisch erkrankte Menschen wichtig ist und geben Beispiele, wie diese trotz aller Barrieren aktiver werden können.
Bewegung und Sport gegen Burnout, Depressionen und Ängste
by Viola Oertel Silke MaturaDieser Ratgeber erklärt, wie körperliche Aktivität die psychische Gesundheit verbessern kann und gibt zahlreiche praktische Tipps für einen aktiveren Alltag. Die meisten Menschen wissen, Sport ist gesund. Trotzdem fällt es oft nicht leicht, den inneren Schweinehund zu überwinden und sich regelmäßig zu bewegen. Durch Burn-Out, Depressionen und Ängste entstehen zusätzliche Barrieren, die es noch schwerer machen, sich für mehr körperliche Aktivität im Alltag zu motivieren. Aus dem Inhalt· Einfach erklärt: Wie psychische Gesundheit und körperliche Aktivität zusammenhängen· Gut informiert: Wie Barrieren entstehen und umgangen werden können· Top motiviert: Wie langfristig mehr Sport und Bewegung in den Alltag kommenLernen Sie von ExpertInnen aus den Bereichen Psychologie, Sporttherapie, Psychiatrie und Psychosomatik, warum sich ein aktiver Alltag lohnt und wie Sie sich nachhaltig motivieren. Entdecken Sie vielfältige Möglichkeiten für mehr körperliche Aktivitäten und erfahren Sie, wie Sie das passende Angebot für sich finden.Plus: Zahlreiche Dokumente zum Download, u.a. zu Zielvisualisierung, Belohnungsplan und eine Liste möglicher Anbieter spezieller Trainingsprogramme für Menschen mit psychischen StörungenNeu in der zweiten Auflage: komplett überarbeitet und aktualisiert
Lines of Scrimmage: A Story of Football, Race, and Redemption
by Joe Oestreich Scott PleasantAs in many small towns in the South, folks in Conway, South Carolina, fill the stands on fall Fridays to cheer on their local high school football squad. In 1989--with returning starter Carlos Hunt at quarterback and having finished with an 8-4 record in 1988--hopes were high that the beloved Tigers would win their first state championship. But during spring practice, Coach Chuck Jordan (who is white) benched Hunt (who is black) in favor of Mickey Wilson, an inexperienced white player. Seeing this demotion of the black quarterback as an example of the racism prevalent in football generally and in Conway specifically, thirty-one of the team's thirty-seven black players--under the guidance of H. H. Singleton, pastor of Cherry Hill Missionary Baptist Church and president of the local NAACP--boycotted the team in protest.The season-long strike severed the town along racial lines, as it became clear that the incident was about much more than football. It was about the legacy of slavery and segregation and Jim Crow and other points of tension and oppression that many people in Conway--and the South--had wrongly assumed were settled.While the 1989 season is long over, the story reverberates today. Chuck Jordan is still coaching at Conway High, and he's still without that state championship. Meanwhile, Mickey Wilson is now coaching Conway's fiercest rival, the Myrtle Beach Seahawks. In the annual Victory Bell Game between Conway and Myrtle Beach, the biggest contest of the year for both teams, a veteran coach and his young protégé compete against each other--against the backdrop of a racial conflict that bitterly divided a small southern town.
Ronan O'Gara: My Autobiography
by Ronan O'GaraRonan O'Gara is one of the greatest sportsmen Ireland has ever produced. A brilliant kicker both from the hand and at penalty goals, a sublime orchestrator of play from the out-half position he has made his own, and a cool head in the pressure-cooker of club and international rugby, the list of the Cork man's achievements goes on and on. The leading points scorer in Irish rugby history, the Six Nations and the Heineken Cup. The architect of two amazing Munster triumphs in Europe. The man whose last minute drop-goal sensationally won the Grand Slam in 2009, Ireland's first for 61 years.In his candid, illuminating autobiography, O'Gara tells the story of those many on-field successes and, with brutal honesty, the darker days as well, most notably at the 2007 World Cup. He tells the inside story of Ireland's disappointments in France, and responds to the allegations about his personal life that made front-page news that autumn. Ronan O'Gara: My Autobiography is the unforgettable story of a rugby player at the top of his game, of a life lived to the full, and of a passionate and proud representative of the people of Cork and Ireland.
Ronan O'Gara: Unguarded
by Ronan O'GaraRonan O'Gara has been at the heart of Munster and Irish rugby for the past fifteen years. Now, as he comes to the end of a glittering playing career, it is time for him to reflect on those many successes and occasional failures with the straight-talking attitude that has become his trademark. Never one to shy away from the truth, the result is Ronan O'Gara: Unguarded.Packed full of anecdotes and analysis of the teammates O'Gara has been proud to share the shirt with, and of the coaches he has played under - often in controversial circumstances - this is the definitive record of an era when Munster rose to triumph in Europe, and Ireland to win the Grand Slam, before crashing down to earth again. It is simply the must-have rugby book of the year.
Risking the Rapids: How My Wilderness Adventure Healed My Childhood
by Irene O'GardenA memoir of a dysfunctional, grieving family reuniting for a turbulent rafting trip, from an author with a “captivating talent for wonder and marvel.”?Elizabeth Gilbert, author of Eat, Pray, LoveAfter the sudden death of Irene O’Garden’s older brother, she and her family decide to seek closure together by taking a journey through the remotest spot in Montana. The story of their harrowing trip on the river is intertwined here with the author’s account of growing up with her six siblings in a clashing Catholic family under the shadow of alcoholism.O’Garden’s father, a local TV personality in Minnesota, leaves his cheery public persona behind when he comes home and starts drinking martinis with his undemonstrative, icy-hearted wife. The children vary in their responses to profound anxiety sown in an atmosphere of neglect, psychological abuse, and rigid religiosity: One brother bites his fingers to gangrene. One relentlessly bullies the author, who begins overeating compulsively. One severs all ties with the family. Meanwhile, in the present, danger mounts as well on the raft trip, when unusual river conditions swell and speed the waters. Both stories build with escalating intensity to excruciating climaxes.Some memoirs shock. Some entertain. Some take us places we’re afraid to go. A rare few move us. Once in a blue moon, a book does it all. This is Risking the Rapids.“Enthralling.” —Malachy McCourt, author of A Monk Swimming“A deep and powerful memoir.” —Martha Beck, author of Finding Your Own North Star“Breathtaking . . . O’Garden adds a thoroughly welcome voice to the rich vein of American literature on the singular healing powers of wilderness.”? Florence Williams, award-winning author of The Nature Fix
Vanderbilt Cup Races of Long Island (Images of Sports)
by Florence Ogg Howard Kroplick"Chain your dogs and lock up your fowls!" heralded posters announcing the first international road race in the United States and the first of the six William K. Vanderbilt Jr. Cup Races held on Long Island from 1904 to 1910. These races were the most prestigious sporting events of their day, drawing huge crowds from 25,000 to over 250,000 spectators. The Vanderbilt Cup Races had a far-reaching impact on the development of American automobiles and parkways and are a testament to the early racing spirit and drama. The rare images in this book, many published for the first time, have been selected from the archives of major museums, libraries, and private collectors.
Kodoku: Sailing Alone Across the Pacific
by Kaoru Ogimi Takuichi Ito Kenichi HorieKodoku is the true story of a young Japanese sailor whose fascination with the art of sailing led him on a solo trans-Pacific journey.<P><P>First described in a best-selling Japanese book, then an internationally acclaimed motion picture, Kodoku is the full record of the background, conception, preparation, and execution of this daring, yet carefully planned adventure. It includes not only the full text of his original log, but also his supplementary comments, adding detail and highlight to the day-to-day experiences recorded in the log.Also included are charts, plans, and a diagram comparing some of the more noteworthy craft that sailed the open seas in the past. The 61 photographs, including 43 taken by Horie himself during the trip, add a vivid touch to this fascinating story of courage, tenacity, adventure, and humor.
Junior and Youth Grassroots Football Culture: The Forgotten Game (Sport in the Global Society – Contemporary Perspectives)
by Jimmy O’GormanFootball is ubiquitously acknowledged as ‘The Global Game’ and/or ‘The People’s Game’ – everyday all-encompassing terms familiar to anyone with an interest in football which illustrate, albeit nebulously, the game’s international reach and popularity. Yet much academic and popular attention has been, and continues to be, narrowly centred on topics pertaining to the elite and professional aspects of the game. At a time when there appears to be an ever-widening gap between the grassroots and elite levels of the sport, this book brings together, for the first time, a collection of research articles dedicated solely to youth and junior grassroots football. The intention is to generate future inquiry, encourage theoretical debate and stimulate empirical research on topics and issues within the relatively marginalised area of the game that is youth and junior grassroots football. The collection represents a preliminary consideration of what is already currently known about grassroots football and, no less importantly, point towards what remains unknown and under-researched but which deserves much more attention than has been given hitherto. As such, the collection includes contributions from practitioners and researchers alike. Topics included range from the provision, organisation and development of grassroots football in one national association, to broader issues such as the sources of enjoyment in participation, the lived experiences of junior players and coaches, to the causes of youth dropout from football. In addition, the significance of social stratification and various forms of social division which structure children’s participation in grassroots football are discussed. These include female participation and the role of elite female role models, and issues relating to the participation of immigrant youth. The book is intended to appeal to practitioners, academics and football enthusiasts alike. This book was originally published as a special issue of Soccer & Society.
Harry - The Ride of My Life: The Noel Harris Story
by Wally O'HearnOne of the oldest jockeys still riding. Noel aka Handbreak Harry is the Keith Richards of the racing world. Talks of drugs, gambling and race fixing. His father is also a well known figure in the racing world. Bursting to prominence in the 1980s, Noel may 'smoke like a chimney, drink like a fish and eat like a sparrow' but he rides like a true champion. And he has outlasted many of his competitors, still leading them home in his late fifties after having notched up over 2000 wins. Along the way he has gained the loyalty of owners and trainers, the respect of fellow jockeys and the admiration of race-goers. He has also had a few beers, a bit of fun and lots of laughs, enjoying life and loving racing. Colourful - including green hair on occasions - and sometimes outlandish, Noel has stood out for his singular riding style, his optimism, commitment, sense of humour and straight-shooting sincerity. Racing is a game of wins and losses, highs and lows, and in this book, Noel takes us on the rollercoaster, from growing up in a racing family and apprenticeship days in a wild and scary Singapore, the rides and races of the NZ and Australian racing calendars, and the trials, tribulations and triumphs of staying at the top. Noel gives us the goods on the horses, owners, trainers, jockeys, races and officials, friends and family - the emotions, experiences, anecdotes and accolades of a long and successful career.
I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness, to The Blind Side, and Beyond
by Michael OherThe football star made famous in the hit film (and book) The Blind Side reflects on how far he has come from the circumstances of his youth. Michael Oher shares his personal account of his story, in this inspirational New York Times bestseller. Looking back on how he went from being a homeless child in Memphis to playing in the NFL, Michael talks about the goals he had to break out of the cycle of poverty, addiction, and hopelessness that trapped his family. Eventually he grasped onto football as his ticket out and worked hard to make his dream into a reality. With his adoptive family, the Touhys, and other influential people in mind, he describes the absolute necessity of seeking out positive role models and good friends who share the same values to achieve one's dreams. Sharing untold stories of heartache, determination, courage, and love, I Beat the Odds is an incredibly rousing tale of one young man's quest to achieve the American dream.
I Beat The Odds: From Homelessness, To The Blind Side And Beyond
by Michael Oher Don YaegerThe football star made famous in the hit film The Blind Sidereflects on how far he has come from the circumstances of his youth. Michael Oher is the young man at the center of the true story depicted in The Blind Sidemovie (and book) that swept up awards and accolades. Though the odds were heavily stacked against him, Michael had a burning desire deep within his soul to break out of the Memphis inner-city ghetto and into a world of opportunity. While many people are now familiar with Oher's amazing journey, this is the first time he shares his account of his story in his own words, revealing his thoughts and feelings with details that only he knows, and offering his point of view on how anyone can achieve a better life. Looking back on how he went from being a homeless child in Memphis to playing in the NFL, Michael talks about the goals he had for himself in order to break out of the cycle of poverty, addiction, and hopelessness that trapped his family for so long. He recounts poignant stories growing up in the projects and running from child services and foster care over and over again in search of some familiarity. Eventually he grasped onto football as his ticket out of the madness and worked hard to make his dream into a reality. But Oher also knew he would not be successful alone. With his adoptive family, the Touhys, and other influential people in mind, he describes the absolute necessity of seeking out positive role models and good friends who share the same values to achieve one's dreams. Sharing untold stories of heartache, determination, courage, and love, I Beat the Odds is an incredibly rousing tale of one young man's quest to achieve the American dream.