Rise and Shine
The sports practices of most school-aged athletes occur in the afternoon but to achieve optimal learning outcomes training is best held in the morning.

Friday Night Lights at Bill McKinlay
Friday Night Lights, a book describing high school American football in small town Texas, tells the story of how individuals and communities live for their local team.

School spirit and the importance of representing your local town are paramount.

Watching Sacred Heart College take on St Kentigern College last Friday night at Bill McKinlay was a glimpse into a Friday Night Lights future for football in New Zealand.

Shades of Humility
With transfer fees of the top professional clubs going through the roof, the European Championships were a welcome contrast to the money game as the power of the collective dominated.

When a Surprise Isn’t a Surprise
The biggest surprise relating to Iceland’s 2-1 victory over England at Euro 2016 this week has been the general response that it was a massive upset.

What Makes a Good Coach?
The Economist magazine seems an unlikely source of guidance for football coaches.

But the recent publication of a research paper investigating what schools can do to improve learning outcomes provides a blueprint that should be embedded in the mindset of every football coach.

The Difference a Decade Can Make
Ten years ago Brazil were starting their defence of the World Cup in Germany.   Five time World Champions, they were regarded as tournament favourites to retain world champion status.