Giants Of Scottish Rugby

Giants Of Scottish Rugby PDF Author: Jeff Connor
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 1780572883
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 192

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Book Description
From the heights of the Grand Slams to a near whitewash in the 2000 Six Nations championship, one factor has remained constant in Scottish rugby - its huge resource of characters. Early in the year 2000, Jeff Connor set out on a mission to track down some of Scotland's best-known players, the true giants of the game, and discover whether there is life after international rugby. The result was 40 exclusive interviews and a book that is enlightening, hilarious and moving in equal measure. There are rare and extended interviews with Ken Scotland, Jim Telfer, Ian McLauchlan, Sandy Carmichael and Andy Irvine. There is the Hawick humour of Jim Renwick, the history of Finlay Calder's greatest wind-ups and the emotive story of Gordon Brown's battle with his most vicious opponent of them all, cancer. Bruce Hay's confrontation with the Duke of Edinburgh, Iain Paxton's disgust at the attitude of some English players on a British Lions tour and David Leslie's fearsome pre-match preparations are all vividly described, along with frankly expressed views from active modern-day players like Gregor Townsend. All rugby fans will find something to treasure in Giants of Scottish Rugby.

Giants Of Scottish Rugby

Giants Of Scottish Rugby PDF Author: Jeff Connor
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 1780572883
Category : Biography & Autobiography
Languages : en
Pages : 192

Get Book Here

Book Description
From the heights of the Grand Slams to a near whitewash in the 2000 Six Nations championship, one factor has remained constant in Scottish rugby - its huge resource of characters. Early in the year 2000, Jeff Connor set out on a mission to track down some of Scotland's best-known players, the true giants of the game, and discover whether there is life after international rugby. The result was 40 exclusive interviews and a book that is enlightening, hilarious and moving in equal measure. There are rare and extended interviews with Ken Scotland, Jim Telfer, Ian McLauchlan, Sandy Carmichael and Andy Irvine. There is the Hawick humour of Jim Renwick, the history of Finlay Calder's greatest wind-ups and the emotive story of Gordon Brown's battle with his most vicious opponent of them all, cancer. Bruce Hay's confrontation with the Duke of Edinburgh, Iain Paxton's disgust at the attitude of some English players on a British Lions tour and David Leslie's fearsome pre-match preparations are all vividly described, along with frankly expressed views from active modern-day players like Gregor Townsend. All rugby fans will find something to treasure in Giants of Scottish Rugby.

The New Breed:

The New Breed: PDF Author: Patrick McCarry
Publisher: Mercier Press Ltd
ISBN: 178117332X
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 380

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Book Description
When the professional era dawned in 1995, Irish rugby was in a rut. Provincial matches attracted crowds of 300, the national team was only capable of one exceptional result a year and there was a general lack of interest from the public. The nation's best players were lured abroad and bitter club rivals were thrown together to battle for provinces that could not attract coaches. No one could have predicted the rapid transformation that would overtake the Irish game. Within a few short years the provinces had become powerhouses on the club circuit, with Ulster, then Munster and Leinster achieving the ultimate goal of European glory. Today, Ireland is one of the strongest professional unions in the world and its senior team are reigning Six Nations champions. 'The New Breed' tells the story of this transformation. Key players of that first generation, including Ronan O'Gara, Brian O'Driscoll and Paul O'Connell, provide candid, enlightening interviews, while current professionals, such as Johnny Sexton, Keith Earls and Rob Kearney, offer insights into the ever-changing science, slog and sacrifice it now requires to make it to the very top.

The Changing Face of Rugby

The Changing Face of Rugby PDF Author: Greg Ryan
Publisher: Cambridge Scholars Publishing
ISBN: 1443804142
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 240

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Book Description
In 1995 rugby union became the last significant international sport to sanction professionalism. To some this represented an undesirable challenge to the traditions of the game. To others the change was inevitable and overdue – an acknowledgment of both the realty of modern sport and the extent to which money had already permeated the game. While there are some commonalities in the response to professional rugby, the contributions to this book, representing almost all of the significant rugby playing countries, reveal much more that was shaped by particular local contexts both within rugby and in terms of its place within the economic, political, class and social structures of the surrounding society. The authors assess the contrasting ways in which rugby administrators at local, regional and national level grappled with the changes that were required and the demands of the corporate backers who funded the transition to professionalism. But the more contentious relationships considered are those involving the many amateur rugby players and committed fans who found that significant community and historical reference points were subtly altered or simply obliterated in the face of new commercial imperatives – and especially new competitions that separated elite players from the grassroots of the game. Some have adapted to the replacement ‘product’ with relish, others have not. Some have genuine and well articulated grievances against the processes of changes. Others have fallen victim to a nostalgia which appropriates very selective memories of the amateur past to highlight apparent problems with the professional present. Above all, these contributions provide a range of perspectives that enable the reader to take stock at a particular point in what is still a rapidly evolving game. Read in ten or twenty years, this book may confirm that many of the right paths have been taken – or it may provide pointers to crisis as yet unimagined.

An Illustrated History of Rugby Rebels, Role Models and Giant Killers

An Illustrated History of Rugby Rebels, Role Models and Giant Killers PDF Author: James Stafford
Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
ISBN: 1915359104
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 358

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Book Description
Learn all about the players, characters and teams that shaped rugby and inspired millions. From 19th century innovators to 21st century superstars, the latest book in the Illustrated History of Rugby series examines players who overcame the odds to beat everything from injury and illness to racism and sexism to excel and thrill followers of our great game. It also tells the stories of giant killing teams who shocked the world and took the scalps of heavily favoured opponents. From the Tonga team that beat Australia in the 1973 to the 'Miracle in Brighton' which saw Japan topple the mighty Springboks, James Stafford and Raluca Moldovan bring to life some of the most thrilling moments in rugby history.

Rugby's Greatest Mavericks

Rugby's Greatest Mavericks PDF Author: Luke Upton
Publisher: Y Lolfa
ISBN: 180099348X
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 134

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Book Description
The author of the bestselling Hard Men of Rugby gives us the thrilling stories of 20 of the greatest rugby mavericks from the last 80 years. Featuring exclusive player interviews, this lively book brings some of rugby's craziest moments, biggest characters and most remarkable stories to life.

Books Ireland

Books Ireland PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Book industries and trade
Languages : en
Pages : 390

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Book Description


Legends of Irish Rugby

Legends of Irish Rugby PDF Author: John Scally
Publisher: Random House
ISBN: 1780574630
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 301

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Book Description
Based on exclusive interviews with 40 celebrated players, past and present, Legends of Irish Rugby is a veritable who's who of the sport. Immortals such as Jack Kyle, Willie John McBride, Tony Ward, Brian O'Driscoll, Gordon D'Arcy and Paul O'Connell bare their souls to reveal themselves as men of vision, passion and dedication - men who, through their glories, disappointments and dramatic deeds, have inspired others to realise their dreams. In this engrossing and entertaining account of the bittersweet history of Irish rugby, these powerful personalities offer startling insights into some of the sport's most controversial moments - from the assault on Ronan O'Gara during the 2001 Lions tour to Gary Ella's tenure as Leinster coach. They also express their opinions on the most important issues facing the game today - from Brian O'Driscoll's hair to the role of the coach and the future of the sport itself. Their take on the times is often as comical as it is insightful. Compelling, informative and humorous, Legends of Irish Rugby is by far the most revealing volume yet on one of the country's favourite sports.

Stand Up and Fight

Stand Up and Fight PDF Author: Alan English
Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
ISBN: 1915359295
Category : Sports & Recreation
Languages : en
Pages : 370

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Book Description
'A modern classic . . . Absolutely riveting and frequently moving' – The Telegraph 'Among the best books ever written on Irish sport' – Sunday Tribune 'Brilliant . . . Stand Up and Fight is the definitive account. It captures the essence of what makes Munster rugby and its provincial team so unique' – Tony Ward, Irish Independent 'A terrific combination of intelligent reportage and open-eyed mythmaking' – Sunday Times 'A seminal account' – New Zealand Herald 'Irresistible' – Guardian 31/10/1978, Thomond Park. On one of the greatest days in rugby history, Munster beat the All Blacks. More than 100,000 people claimed to have watched the game, even though the ground could only hold 12,000. Now, fully updated for the 45th anniversary of the match, Alan English tells the true story.

The Guardian Index

The Guardian Index PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Guardian (Manchester, England)
Languages : en
Pages : 2020

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Book Description


Always Ireland

Always Ireland PDF Author: Jack Kavanagh
Publisher: Disney Electronic Content
ISBN: 1426223633
Category : Travel
Languages : en
Pages : 638

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Book Description
This alluring travel guide from National Geographic, covering every county of the Emerald Isle, offers the ultimate insider's tour of Ireland's most iconic places, from the literary pubs of Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher. From the emerald green coastal cliffs to centuries-old castles, hole-in-the-wall pubs to world-renowned distilleries, this richly illustrated narrative showcases Ireland's best sights, bites, and experiences. Written by a renowned expert in all things Eire, this book celebrates the multilayered beauty of the landscape, shines a light on the the country's innovative traditions, and reveals the robust nightlife across a variety of picturesque cities. More than 300 glorious National Geographic images, along with recommended itineraries, practical tips, and insightful histories, populate these informative and inspiring pages. Organized by region, Always Ireland will allow you to map your way through the country's well-known places and hidden treasures alike, featuring must-do experiences, scenic destinations, and expert advice on where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. Each section offers in-the-know secrets and off-the-beaten path recommendations, featuring art galleries, hiking trails, national parks, fishing villages, and more. You'll also discover favorites from Irish luminaries who know their country best, as well as recipes—from soda bread to Irish stew—to bring the tastes of Ireland into your home kitchen. Both beautiful and enlightening, this one-of-a-kind guide will allow you to experience Ireland as the locals do!