text:
No. 32: U.S.C.
By Paul Myerberg // Aug 2, 2011
Fine, so U.S.C. is no longer U.S.C. — and you know exactly what I mean with that sentence. The program lost its aura of invincibility on Halloween in 2009, when the then-No. 5 Trojans were made pedestrian by Oregon, and lost its status as local bully when Stanford and Jim Harbaugh took the Trojans down a peg — perhaps more than a peg — two weeks later. Things haven't been the same since, and it's not all because of the N.C.A.A., in my opinion. Will things ever return to normal? Maybe the question isn't whether U.S.C. will be back, as the Trojans will continue to bring in enough talent to play with any team in the country. Maybe the question is how U.S.C. will come back: whether as bully, as in the past, or with newfound respect for how hard it is to start at the bottom and work your way up the Pac-12 ladder. Actually, the question I'm most interested in is this: Will U.S.C. be back under Lane Kiffin or someone else?
Pac-12, South
Los Angeles
Returning starters
13 (6 offense, 7 defense)
Last year's ranking
No. 15
2010 record
(8-5, 5-4)
Last year's
No. 38
2011 schedule
- Sept. 3
- Sept. 10
- Sept. 17
- Sept. 24
at Arizona St.
- Oct. 1
- Oct. 13
at California
- Oct. 22
at Notre Dame
- Oct. 29
- Nov. 4
at Colorado
- Nov. 12
- Nov. 19
at Oregon
- Nov. 26
Last year's prediction
Now, back to Kiffin, who inherits a difficult situation. Does he have what it takes to keep the Trojans rolling at a Pete Carroll-like pace? In the long-term… there's really no way to know. There's no way to project what type of impact he'll have, at least until the strong N.C.A.A. sanctions are removed from over the head of the program. As for 2010, if everything was equal, U.S.C. would clearly be the second-best team in the Pac-10, with games against Oregon, Oregon State and Stanford dictating the final conference standings. What happens in those games won't truly matter, of course — except for the pride of a program long accustomed to bullying opposition for 60 minutes. If a Trojan wins a game, but it does little for his national title hopes, does he still have swagger?
2010 recap
In a nutshell For a team with nothing to play for, U.S.C. certainly didn't look like a team with nothing to play for. No, this was likely the program's worst team since Pete Carroll's debut season in 2001. In terms of wins and losses: 8-5, a program-low for wins and a program-high for losses since that 2001 campaign, if we don't count the N.C.A.A.-mandated 0-1 mark in 2005. This is U.S.C., after all, and wins and losses matter above all. But you had to like what you saw for much of last season, and while I draw the line at calling these Trojans a bunch of overachieving underdogs, do remember that this was a team that took a huge hit thanks to graduation and attrition. So 8-5 isn't all that bad, considering that the losses include one to Washington that absolutely should not have been a loss; another to Stanford that was going the Trojans' way until the final minute; another by four points to Notre Dame; another to Oregon, which is understandable; and one ugly loss at Oregon State. All things considered, this team was pretty good. Just not as good as teams have been over the last decade, which makes 8-5 awfully hard to swallow for those associated or familiar with the program.
High point Another win over U.C.L.A., the program's 10th in 11 tries. Even when down, the Trojans are above the Bruins. There was a win over Hawaii, which grew more and more impressive down the stretch, as well as a win over then-No. 18 Arizona on the road.
Low point The Coliseum was all jazzed up for No. 2 Oregon on the last Saturday of October, and the Trojans did give the fans plenty to cheer about for roughly 34 minutes. Then the bottom dropped out, as a 32-29 U.S.C. advantage deteriorated into a 53-32 Oregon win. For a time there, it seemed like U.S.C. could hang. Oregon State was equally unkind, handing the Trojans a 36-7 loss in Corvallis.
Tidbit The wonderful streak continues in 2011. U.S.C. remains one of three teams in the nation to have never played an F.C.S. opponent, joining U.C.L.A. and Notre Dame. Round of applause for this threesome. Over the last 15 years, the Trojans have played only 13 regular season games against non-B.C.S. conference competition, in fact, if we don't add Notre Dame to that category. The list: Hawaii in 2010, 2003 and 1999; San Jose State in 2009, 2001 and 2000; Idaho in 2007; Fresno State in 2005; Colorado State in 2004; B.Y.U. in 2004 and 2003; San Diego State in 1998; and U.N.L.V. in 1997.
Tidbit (recruiting edition) So there was some question as to how many players U.S.C. could sign in its most recent recruiting class. Some wondered how the Trojans could sign so many, 30 recruits, after the N.C.A.A. issued an initial ruling that the program could carry only 75 scholarship players. Well, here was Kiffin's logic in February: U.S.C. could have signed a smaller class, pending the N.C.A.A.'s final ruling, or it could get after it and sign a huge class in advance of the final verdict. The final verdict came down earlier this summer, with the N.C.A.A. ruling that the Trojans would lose 30 scholarships over the next three years. So from 2012-14, the Trojans will average 15 signings per class. Kiffin was then wise to sign a huge class in 2011, one that will replenish depth in advance of some painful recruiting limitations. That's how I understand it, at least.
Former players in the N.F.L.
58 WR David Ausberry (Oakland), OT Sam Baker (Atlanta), LB Darnell Bing (Houston), RB Allen Bradford (Tampa Bay), OT Charles Brown (New Orleans), K David Buehler (Dallas), RB Reggis Bush (Miami), C Jeff Byers (Denver), TE Dominique Byrd (Seattle), TE Jordan Cameron (Cleveland), DT Jurrell Casey (Tennessee), QB Matt Cassel (Kansas City), DT Shaun Cody (Houston), LB Brian Cushing (Houston), TE Fred Davis (Washington), DT Sedrick Ellis (New Orleans), RB C.J. Gable (New Orleans), DE Everson Griffin (Minnesota), K Jacob Harfman (Atlanta), S Cary Harris (New York Giants), FB Stanley Havili (Philadelphia), OT Nick Howell (San Francisco), DE Lawrence Jackson (Detroit), RB Stafon Johnson (Tennessee), WR Ronald Johnson (San Francisco), OT Winston Justice (Philadelphia), C Ryan Kalil (Carolina), QB Matt Leinart (Houston), OG Butch Lewis (Kansas City), LB Kaluka Maiava (Cleveland), LB Clay Matthews (Green Bay), LB Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati), S Taylor Mays (San Francisco), TE Anthony McCoy (Seattle), RB Joe McKnight (New York Jets), DT Fili Moala (Indianapolis), DE Kyle Moore (Tampa Bay), LB Mike Morgan (Seattle), C Kris O'Dowd (Arizona), OG Alex Parsons (Oakland), DT Mike Patterson (Philadelphia), CB Josh Pinkard (Seattle), S Troy Polamualu (Pittsburgh), OG Chilo Rachal (San Francisco), LB Keith Rivers (Cincinnati), DE Frostee Rucker (Cincinnati), QB Mark Sanchez (New York Jets), DT Derek Simmons (Baltimore), OT Tyron Smith (Dallas), CB Terrell Thomas (New York Giants), CB Kevin Thomas (Indianapolis), WR Patrick Turner (New York Jets), RB Chauncey Washington (St. Louis), RB LenDale White (Denver), WR Damian Williams (Tennessee), WR Mike Williams (Seattle), LB Thomas Williams (New England). CB Shareece Wright (San Diego).
Arbitrary top five list
John Wayne movies, 1950-59
1. "The Quiet Man," 1952.
2. "The Searchers," 1956.
3. "Rio Grande," 1950.
4. "Hondo," 1953.
5. "Rio Bravo," 1959.
Lane Kiffin (Fresno State '98), 8-5 after one season back with the Trojans. Of course, Kiffin came to Los Angeles after a seven-win season with Tennessee in his lone season in Knoxville. He also spent a year and a fraction as the head coach with the Oakland Raiders, compiling a 5-15 mark from 2007-8. Though the record (4-12 in 2007) does not show it, Kiffin did not do a terrible job with the Raiders, especially on offense. In 2006, Oakland finished dead last in the N.F.L. in scoring, total offense and passing touchdowns and 29th in rushing. In the next season, Kiffin's first, the Raiders moved up to 25th in scoring (up to 17.7 points per game from 10.5) and sixth in rushing. Despite these gains, Kiffin was fired by the Raiders four games into the 2008 season. Will we ever know the true story behind his abrupt departure? Probably not. Tennessee didn't seem to care: he was hired by the university two months later. What attracted U.T. – as well as a number of other universities with open coaching jobs – was Kiffin's work as an assistant at U.S.C. He served under Pete Carroll from 2001-6, first as the tight ends coach (2001) and receivers coach (2002-4) before ascending to the offensive coordinator spot from 2005-6. He was also the team's recruiting coordinator over his final two seasons. In terms of statistics, the 2005 Trojans led the nation in total offense, while the 2006 team featured a 3,000-yard passer and a pair of 1,000-yard receivers. The Trojans went a remarkable 65-12 over his six seasons on the staff, 59-6 from 2002-6. All this, of course, became overshadowed by Kiffin's dastardly turn as SEC villain, which cemented his status as Public Enemy No. 1 in college football's premier conference. New conference, new coast, same story. He's the coach we all love to hate, likely because, well, he makes it so easy. Kiffin is on a surprisingly toasty seat: he's not going to lose his job, but anything less than another eight-win season is going to put him under a spotlight heading into 2012.
Players to watch
It's disappointing, in a way, to see that Matt Barkley's run as U.S.C.'s starting quarterback will be overshadowed by these ongoing N.C.A.A. penalties. He deserves better: he deserves to be mentioned alongside all of the program's greats at the position, of the recent and distant past, and should leave U.S.C. near or atop the school's record book for all of the meaningful passing records. Which is pretty impressive, if you stop and think about it. A starter since day one, Barkley, now a junior, took a significant step forward in 2010, growing more and more comfortable under center and showing greater consistency, though Barkley needs to avoid the lulls that continued to plague him on occasion as a sophomore.
There were a few two-interception games, not to mention a four-game span from late October through November where Barkley really struggled: Oregon, Arizona, Arizona State and Oregon State, with the latter game ending at halftime thanks to an ankle injury. In all, however, last season was a definite success: 2,791 yards passing, 26 touchdowns against 12 picks and a completion rate just below 63 percent, a nice step forward in all categories after his rookie campaign. What can Barkley do in 2011? He can be as good as anyone; he'll just get better with each snap. While it'll never happen, thanks to his team's projected record and the N.C.A.A. penalties, Barkley is in the Heisman mix. The only issue facing U.S.C. at quarterback is a lack of depth, as while the Trojans have six players battling for the backup role not one has attempted a pass on the college level. The Trojans need one of those contenders to emerge as a viable second option, with redshirt freshman Jesse Scroggins the best choice. Get somebody ready, as Barkley could opt for the N.F.L. in 2012, after all.
Marc Tyler will miss the season opener after his misguided comments a few weeks ago, but once he returns to the field he'll be U.S.C.'s top running back. That's what he was a year ago, when he lived up to his potential in leading the Trojans in rushing (913 yards) and touchdowns (nine), adding another 17 receptions for 127 yards through the air. But U.S.C. did suffer some losses here, so the hope is that sophomore Dillon Baxter (253 yards) and redshirt freshman D.J. Morgan can step into the void and provide a boost on the ground. Both would be nice compliments to the bruising Tyler, home-run threats who could be the dash to Tyler's smash. Junior Curtis McNeal's strong spring showing vaulted him ahead of that pair on the depth chart heading into the fall, so he'll be looking at heavy touches against Minnesota while Tyler's decked out in street clothes. Don't sleep on how hard it will be for the Trojans to replace fullback Stanley Havili, who did it all for this offense; for now, U.S.C. is going with true freshman Soma Vainuku at the position.
The story at receiver is one of youth, as the Trojans head towards the fall with only one senior, Brandon Carswell (16 receptions for 205 yards), poised to hold a major role. Is that a problem? Nope. Not when you have a sophomore like Robert Woods, who burst onto the scene in 2010 to the tune of a team-best 65 receptions for 786 yards and 6 scores, not to mention a new school record for kickoff return yardage (971, one touchdown). Everyone thought Woods would be terrific, but that he took control of the top spot so quickly — 12 receptions for 224 yards and 3 scores against Stanford in October — showed the height of his ceiling heading into 2011 and beyond.
With Carswell and Woods due to start, what U.S.C. really needs is for a handful of young, unproven targets to step into larger roles. One is junior Brice Butler, who was a disappointment last fall after making 20 receptions as a freshman. He's one of several extremely talented receivers littering the depth chart, joining sophomores Markeith Ambles and De'Von Flourney and redshirt freshman Kyle Prater — in addition to a few true freshmen, like George Farmer, Victor Blackwell and Marqise Lee. Senior tight end Rhett Ellison (20 for 229 yards) may not be flashy, but he's a reliable target for Barkley to work with on the intermediate level.
The defense will be better. Right? It can't get much worse than it was a year ago, when the Monte Kiffin-led attack took a significant step backwards in all facets: the pass, the run, getting to the quarterback, on third down, in the red zone and, most importantly, keeping opponents out of the red zone. The elder Kiffin's first order of business will be to find a better mix in the secondary, where the Trojans were especially painful in 2011. The defense can take some solace in a deep front four, which must replace an all-conference tackle but returns six players with solid starting experience.
One is senior tackle Christian Tupou, a starter in 2008-9 who missed last season due to injury. His healthy return will be vital to this defense, since it will not only provide the defense with a stout run-stopper in the middle of the line but also vastly improve depth. Tupou would push senior DaJohn Harris (35 tackles, 3.5 sacks) into a secondary role — for now, at least — though Harris will continue to be an integral piece of the puzzle. U.S.C. also brings back another senior, Armond Armstead (43 tackles, 3 sacks), giving the Trojans a deep and experienced rotation at tackle. Greater depth comes from a quintet of true and redshirt freshmen, led by George Uko, who will play a bunch.
While the tackle spot is defined by its seniors, it's all about the juniors at end. Nick Perry (25 tackles, 4 sacks) and Devon Kennard (72 tackles, 7 for loss) are the projected starters, with Kennard moving down to his more natural end spot after spending last season at middle linebacker. A third junior, Wes Horton (29 tackles, 4 sacks) will push this pair for snaps once he fully recovers from a foot injury. Former walk-on Eric Childs made a climb up the depth chart during the spring, but there's plenty of opportunities for true freshmen Greg Townsend and DeVante Wilson to make an impact once they get a grasp of the defense.
There are holes at outside linebacker, as the Trojans need to supplant a pair of multiple-year starters. U.S.C. does bring back senior Chris Galippo (29 tackles), who shared time in the middle with Kennard a year ago. It's time for Galippo to live to his massive billing: he's fared well in spurts, but U.S.C. needs him to inhabit a leadership role on and off the field in 2011. The Trojans still need to make a decision on the outside, with senior Shane Horton (28 tackles, 6.5 for loss) a fairly easy pick on the weak side should he be healthy — if not, it'll be redshirt freshman Hayes Pullard. I don't know how I'd feel about an outside linebacker combination of Pullard and sophomore Marquis Simmons on the strong side: no questioning the talent, but that's an inexperienced pairing.
And so we return to the secondary, a major sticking point last fall but a group, as we head to September, with definite promise. There's an overload of options at safety, beginning with returning starters T.J. McDonald (89 tackles, 3 interceptions) and Jawanza Starling (37 tackles, 1 interception) and continuing with a handful — nearly two handfuls — of gifted defensive backs, including a pair with past starting experience. McDonald's too good to not hold onto his spot at free safety; a second-team all-conference pick last fall, McDonald was the lone bright spot in an otherwise spotty secondary.
But Starling could very easily lose his grasp on strong safety, as U.S.C. could also turn to senior Marshall Jones, Starling's replacement due to injury over the final four games of 2010. Jones, sophomore Demetrius Wright and junior Drew McAllister are going to play, probably at Starling's expense, so the Trojans look ready to roll at safety. Unfortunately, cornerback again looks like a danger zone. Sophomore Nickell Robey is back after making a team-best four interceptions in 2010, but his lack of prototypical height will always make him best-suited for a nickel role — insert name joke here. But Robey does make plays, which you can't discount, and he looks like a four-year starter in the U.S.C. secondary. Converted safety Tony Burnett is a nice story: the former walk-on and member of the U.S.C. track team impressed the staff with how quickly he took to cornerback, leaving him the favorite to join Robey in the starting lineup.
Position battle(s) to watch
Offensive line OR, OR, OR, OR — enough of those on the depth chart to get a boat across the Pacific. What U.S.C. doesn't have along the offensive line is anything close to a final solution, not to mention linemen with enough starting experience to instill anything close to a sense of confidence. What U.S.C. does have is two players with adequate playing time under their sizable belts: junior Matt Kalil at left tackle and converted guard Khaled Holmes at center, with Holmes still battling to return to full strength after shoulder surgery. From there, it's anyone's guess. The Trojans need help, and that's why Kiffin went out and nabbed a pair of JUCO transfers in David Garness and Jeremy Galten; you can pencil Galten in as the starter at right tackle, ahead of sophomore Kevin Graf, while Garness will begin the year as Kalil's understudy on the blind side. As for guard, it's time for senior Martin Coleman to grab a starting role and run with it. He's been here before, atop the depth chart in August, but Coleman has yet to make an impact along the U.S.C. offensive line. The Trojans need a big year out of him, as Coleman's the lone senior on scholarship up front. U.S.C. has similar competition at left guard, where sophomore John Martinez and redshirt freshman Giovanni Di Poalo are entrenched in an ongoing position battle. There's a real shot for a true freshman like Cyrus Hobbi or Marcus Martin to leap in and steal some significant playing time, which is good for that pair but not good for this team's hopes up front. As of today, only two spots, left tackle and center, are spoken for; a third, right guard, seems to be Coleman's to lose; a fourth, right tackle, is leaning towards a JUCO transfer; and left guard looks like a potential trouble spot.
Game(s) to watch
A home game with Utah might decide the Pac-12 South, so that's one game that stands out. So does another tussle with Notre Dame, which finally cracked a long losing streak in the series last fall. U.S.C. gets the Irish on the road, as well as Arizona State, California and Oregon.
Season breakdown & prediction
In a nutshell There's a terrific amount of talent. This is U.S.C., after all, and even if these aren't the big, bad, bullying Trojans of old this is still a team that has stockpiled five-star recruits nearly across the board. So what's missing? Depth, most of all, but while the Trojans are very deep and strong in some areas there are enough trouble spots to keep this team from being a legitimate national contender — and yes, the N.C.A.A. took care of that problem anyway. Where U.S.C. can feel good about things is at quarterback, barring injury: Barkley's the key to the entire offense, and U.S.C. would be hard-pressed to finish .500 if he's lost for a significant amount of time. There's ability at running back and receiver, but the biggest question mark offensively is along the line, where things do not look good. The defense will take its cue from a deep and experienced front four; they'll be needed in a big way, considering the issues at linebacker and in the secondary. About this secondary: it can't be worse, can only be better, and will be improved if Robey can continue to develop and Burnett can take to his new role, and there's wonderful depth at safety. In short, if everything goes its way U.S.C. could challenge for 10 wins. That's if there are no injuries, if the offensive line comes together, if the linebacker corps lands strong play from youngsters and the secondary steps up. That's a quite a bit to go right. In a more realistic scenario, these question marks harass U.S.C. all season, preventing the Trojans from reclaiming their place atop the Pac-12.
Dream season U.S.C. has a strong starting lineup, but it's the freshmen depth that comes in handy in a 11-1 regular season, with a loss only at Oregon in November.
Nightmare season The Trojans take a tremendous step back: 4-8, 3-6 in the Pac-12.
In case you were wondering
Where do U.S.C. fans congregate? For some solid message board chatter, check out Tribute to Troy, We Are S.C., U.S.C. Football and S.C. Playbook. For additional coverage, look no ruther than Scott Wolf's Inside U.S.C., Trojan Wire and the Web site of The Orange County Register.
Word Count
Through 89 teams 272,098.
Up Next
Who is No. 31? A few others come close, but tomorrow's program is the only one in the F.B.S. whose mascot shares its name with a team from a Bernard Malamud novel.
You can also follow Paul Myerberg and Pre-Snap Read on Twitter.
Tags: Brandon Carswell, Chris Galippo, Christian Tupou, Devon Kennard, Lane Kiffn, Marc Tyler, Matt Barkley, Monte Kiffin, Nickell Robey, Pac-12, Robert Woods, T.J. McDonald, U.S.C.
I would say USC's road loss to UW in Seattle early in '09 was the point at which some questioned if the dominance was gone. They did bounce back with strong games vs Cal and Notre Dame before their loss to Oregon, but they really didn't look the same.
I still think they are the team to beat in the Pac12 South and it will be interesting if they do and the very first Pac12 championship game is the North vs #2 in the South.
UCF is next.
oh, was I supposed to make a guess at the clue? UCF Knights would be my guess.
I am half tempted to take Utah for the Sept 17 game to win. But then my better judgement says no. USC should be a little better this yr than last. Utah, welcome to the Pac12 and now play at USC. Guess they got what they were asking for lol
Was the mascot from "the Natural" Knightro? I know they were the New York Knights, but I don't remember their mascot name.
Those are two discerning picks to the top of the john Wayne list. The first is a non-Western, with Maureen O'Hara. The chemistry between the two is miles beyond McClintock!, but then there is a much better story being told. The second is a Western, but Wayne plays a guy who is not very nice, to put it mildly. Not the usual stance for him. Both films are highly recommended.
Oh wow, I completely missed the "Mascot" part. Tricky.
Still, this seems like a logical place for UCF to be and I don't remember much about The Natural, so I don't have a better guess.
Your schedule is wrong. Utah and USC play on September 10th not the 17th.
Paul: Thanks. Had swapped Utah and Syracuse. Fixed above.
I think it's interesting that Jim Harbaugh's first regular season NFL game is going to be against Pete Carroll. Looking forward to the post-game handshake.
Washington has never played a FCS opponent. However, for the first time they have one scheduled this season, Eastern Washington. Eastern, however, is the defending national FCS champion. You've jumped the gun.
PS: Matt Barkley has NEVER shown any greatness. Your standards are really low.
Barkley was, however, the top ranked recruit in the country. That may be suited for greatness when it suits the writer.
Barkley has Jimmy Clausen written all over him.
It makes me smile to know that USC and Ohio St. are both in shambles.
I am pleased that Utah is called to be the best team in the Pac-12 South. Not a Non-AQ any longer but still anti-systemic.
Leave a Comment


text:
Autumn Tabletop Decor Table Runner by Stamping Gear™
Create a beautiful hand made table runner to accent your Thanksgiving decor.
Designed by Arlene Loabach, courtesy of EK Success®.
Material List
- Inkadinkado® Stamping Gear Intro Set
- Inkadinkado® Stamping Gear Wheel - Oval
- Inkadinkado® Stamping Gear Cling Stamp Set - Fossil Leaves
- Craft Paint - Light Sage, Medium Sage and Dark Sienna
- Purchased Table Runner
- Foam Brush, Small
- Paper Plate
- Newsprint
- Masking Tape
- Pressing Cloth (or Scrap Fabric)
- Steam Iron
Project Instructions
Use extra sheets of newsprint to practice stamp placement on the paddle block, and techniques.
Steam the table runner to remove all wrinkles and fold lines. Fold several thickness of newsprint to fit under the table runner.
Use masking tape to secure the runner to the work surface.
Position the oval wheel in the center of the runner.
Use the paper plate to hold a small amount of the required paints. Use the foam brush to load the paint onto the stamp image.
Working around the outside of the wheel, stamp an open basic pattern using the beech tree leaf image and Light Sage paint. Do not move the wheel.
Stamp the alternate spaces using the beech tree leaf image and the Dark Sage paint. Again, leave the wheel in place.
Stamp over the Light Sage images using the birch tree leaf image and Dark Sienna paint.
Repeat at different locations on the table runner.
To heat set: Cover the image with a pressing cloth or scrap fabric. Press with a dry iron set to medium.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Your version of Internet Explorer is out of date. For best experience please upgrade to Internet Explorer 7 or above.
viewing 88
The beautiful feminine flare of junior dresses turn any girl's world into a runway—from prom dresses to casual, everyday frocks.
Styles that range from short and sweet to flowing and formal mean any moment can be your opportunity to shine. Show some skin in a leg-loving mini or arm-baring maxi, where even the most casual look will dress up your day. From a high-low hem to intricate trim, attention to detail is what gives our gorgeous selection a must-have appeal. Make memories with JCPenney, where you can find dance-worthy party dresses for juniors and picture-perfect prom dresses that make it easy to get your princess on.
©jcp Media Inc., 2014. All Rights Reserved


text:
What are the 12 main advices in the technical and physical level for a tennis player for to win her Match?
Hello! Maria
Today, I will want to speak about certain technical actions in the sporting behavior of the tennis player at the time of his match. I noticed that certain players are satisfied to turn over the ball towards the opposing side without worrying on the way in which this ball will be taken delivery of and returned by the adversary.
What constitutes a great error, because, it is not a question to return the ball in any beauty (cut, reverse, air ball, etc), since tennis is not only one play of sleight of hand, but it acts to know how to return this ball? Where to return it? And when to return it?
With the result that there exists a great difference in the manner of returning a ball; and the player is held to mark points while returning this ball, towards the opposing side, with force, speed, precision and, especially, at the favorable moment and towards the most favorable space; also the speed must in no manner being supported with the detriment of the precision.
For example, a player right-handed, who holds his racket with the right hand and which launches out in a dash towards the right side, finds a very great difficulty in intercepting a ball which is turned over towards the left side.
Therefore, the player does not need to see the reaction of his adversary to choose towards which side to return the ball to him; but it is enough to guess instinctively towards which side this adversary will be projected for to choose in which space shoot and to mark the point.
Thus, a truth rally can last up to 20 or 30 pass, when the play is powerful and is balanced and that the adversaries are worth in technique; but, when the play is banal, the rally should not exceed the 5 pass, and the player which is more offensive and shooting more quickly and with power can mark points. Good Chance! God Bless You! Kisses
My councils for the match against serena are: 1) To be fast and not to yield to precipitation 2) To make it run the more possible for a long time to exhaust it physically. 3) Not to give her easy balls (center balls) to avoid its powerful shootings. 4) To make the difference with your powerful services and aces.5) Not to forget your special heating. Good Chance! God Bless You! Kisses
Hello! Maria
Today I have only 3 importants things to say to you:
1) Try to work your moving in the court, according your last match against Serena, we have seen that you can not move easly; in this case I suggest to you some exercices of speed series (5x8x50m. 2 times per week. recovery=5 secondes. Rest=1 minute)
2) Try to shoot your balls toward the top, like Nadal, to prevent them collide with the net frequently
3) Try to avoid to shoot your balls, most of the time, toward the center, since you give easy balls to your opponent who can win points for nothing.Good Chance! and God Bless You! Kisses
Thank you! Maria for this Victory; It was a good work, even if the match was very difficult; sometimes the new players are very strong than the big Champions, when they are in their good day. Good Chance for your next Match.God Bless You! Kisses
It is necessary well to concentrate on the decisive balls (points 40); because there are some which are equivalent to a whole Set or a Match in terms of true values and time. Therefore, it is necessary that you take all your time and your concentration before playing these decisive balls.
It will never be repeated enough, a ball shot in an empty space is likely more to mark points than a ball which is shot in space where the adversary is; in addition to the fact that it will have the advantage of making run the adversary and, therefore, to exhaust it physically.
With regard to Kerber, it is a stable and regular player who is characterized by a great quality in the precision, the power of the return and the maintenance of the large rally, since she enjoys a very great physical shape.
On the other hand, its Service and its Aces are very weak, which can be advantageous for you to make the difference with your powerful shootings. Go Ahead Maria! Good Chance and God Bless You! Kisses
Today, I will want to speak to you about "The Programming of the Reflexes", "The Tactics of the repurchase", "the Lassitude" and "The Softness in the play":
Programming of the Reflexes:
Generally the behavior of the player of tennis is dictated by natural and spontaneous reflexes that the player himself cannot control with hundred percent.
Thus, it is necessary to preconceive and predefine in the brain the images of all the plausible reactions which can order the most favorable behavior of the reflexes according to the situations in which the player evolves.
Did one wonder once about the reasons which push our brain to orders to our reflexes to behave in such manner and not of such other? Or, in other words, why the action of our reflexes selects a reaction rather than another and a situation rather than another?
In reality, our brain precedes and preconceives these images in its memory and records them according to each situation, and as soon as an action answers the criteria of similarity compared to these images, the suitable reaction is systematically ordered by our brain through the reflexes.
Consequently, the best means of programming these reflexes and of accustoming the brain to these systematic reactions, it is the imagination and the vision of the matches of tennis to be able to record all the possible sequences and to draw the most favorable reactions which must be ordered systematically to the reflexes according to the situations imposed by the play.
Tactics of the Repurchase: It is to compensate for all the not forced errors and the double-faults by positive pass and actions (powerful service, aces, shootings, good return, good rally) which erase the negative consequences of these faults.
Thus, a gained part, a gained Set, a gained Round and a gained Match make the effect negative of all these preceding faults no one and without any consequence on the end result of the match.
Lassitude: Sometimes the tennis player finds himself, without any reason, in a state psychological very tired, tedious, morose and almost tired; and it is enough to a small pretext like, for example, to lose a part or a round, so that it is completely let gain by the abandonment, lassitude and as of time total tiredness.
In this situation, the only remedy is psychologically to hustle the temperament of this player by actions or gestures extraordinary and negatively or positively a little violent ones who can cause in him a positive reaction which can exceed this state of lassitude (god news, bad choose, slap in the neck, etc.).
Softness in the play: As of time certain situations in the play of tennis require only one small simple, soft and easy gesture so that the player can gain points easily.
Therefore, a tennis player must be intelligent, relaxed and intuitive to be able to imagine all the assumptions possible which show him the most favorable manner to play a ball, to control an action or to exceed a situation during his match of tennis.
On the other hand, tense up, the nervousness, the violence of the gesture or the precipitation can always cause the negative effect and force the player to make unforced errors and to lose points free.
That does not want to say that the player should not be powerful and does not have to give very powerful shootings. Good Chance and God Bless You! Kisses
with Na Li you know already how to play, I insist on your preliminary warm-up and on the manner of forcing it has to make errors, playing with power and firmness.
Today, I will want to speak to you about the extraordinary effort of which the tennis player can make proof in certain unfavorable situations during certain matches.
Extraordinary effort
Often the tennis players, when they are in a very critical unfavorable situation, they make an extraordinary effort which can enable them to go up the slope, and, as of time, they can go up a gap of 4 and 5 parts.
This extraordinary effort is not the fact of the chance, but it is due to an extraordinary excitement of its natural energy and its concentration caused by certain psychological factors due in exceptional states of nervousness, anger, rage to win, challenge, domination, over-estimate of oneself, etc
Therefore, generally, there are negative factors that can cause feelings of going beyond of oneself and stimulate the psychic system of the player so that it can cause positive effects on all the body, in particular while bringing more for the energy substance of the player and by controlling perfectly his natural reflexes and its best concentration.
On the other hand, this extraordinary effort can also be caused in normal situations where the player is in more favorable position. Thus, it is enough that the player is more conscious and is more motivated about the importance of his victory and, from there, it deploys a little more its physical and psychic capacities for not to fall into the self-satisfaction, the imprudence, the impatience, the negligence and the decline which can be fatal to him.
Therefore, to avoid this situation, the tennis player should not moderate his prudence and its attention and it must, imperatively, continue its play with the same method, the same manner and the same style to avoid any bad surprise and to gain the match high the hand. Go Ahead Maria! Good Chance and God Bless You! Kisses
This time, I would like to speak on the multiple tactics in a match of tennis, because the game of tennis requires much imagination and technique according to the particular situation. Therefore, the player of tennis is obliged to answer technically and intelligently to each particular situation by a specific tactic if he wants to gain a match.
Multiple tactics:
One does not play with the same tactics in a whole match of tennis or even in a Set. Therefore, the player must take account of each particular situation to choose the tactics to be adopted.
Thus, in a situation favorable and advantageous, the player must choose the defensive tactics, which implies prudence in the play. In this tactic, to avoid the unforced errors and the double-faults, it is recommended to shoot the ball a little to the top, so that it does not strike the net, and to push the adversary to make errors. As regards the double-faults, it is suggested that the 2nd Serve must be made differently than the 1st Serve with regard to the manner, the power and the direction.
On the other hand, in a situation unfavorable and disadvantageous, the player must necessarily choose the offensive tactics, which implies to take a certain risk which does not relate to decisive balls. It is recommended, here, to center the play on the powerful Serves, the powerful Aces and the strong Shootings.
In addition, certain situations in the play of tennis recommend a great concentration of the player. Thus, so that the player is ready to control all his natural reflexes, it is advised that he limits a little his useless movements for centering his concentration well on the manner of playing of his adversary and understands his reflexes and its movements to be able to react consequently.
The concentration in the sport of tennis is a very important topic and requires a separately post, which obliges to me to reconsider this subject in my next post.
P.S: The match of today is to be taken very seriously for two important reasons: 1) For these two days forced rest and this stressing waiting. 2) For the adversary who is new for you and her manner of playing is unknown.
Therefore, to thwart these two disadvantages, firstly, you must imperatively carry out a preliminary warm-up of 1/2 hour to enter directly the play from the first Service of the first Set.
Secondly, one never should remain in waiting of the play and the points while trying to understand, initially, the method of play of the adversary. But, it is necessary to benefit from each occasion to mark the maximum of points from the beginning, while observing the manner of playing of the adversary. This, without forgetting the other important councils. I wish you good Chance for the match of today and that God preserves you. Go Ahead Maria! Good Chance! Kisses
Today, I will want to speak to you on the concept of the Concentration in the sport of the tennis, which remains the principal asset of the player to gain his match.
The concentration is a psychic faculty very essential to the success of any work, activity or action which the individual can undertake. But, contrary to other psychic faculties, the concentration is not a thing which depends directly on the will of the individual, because, it exceeds its goodwill and its capacities psychic and physical. However, the individual can accustom his brain and adapt it to control this concentration through methods and exercises psychic and physical.
Thus, to know the degree of his concentration, the individual must make a small test; For example, while trying to read and understand ½ page of a book; if it understands all the contents, that it read, in its first reading without much effort, it is that its concentration is in the top of its performance. But, if it must read the contents several times to understand it, it is that its concentration needs to be perfected.
Consequently, in the field of the sport the optimal level of the concentration varies from a discipline at another and according to the time of exercise of this discipline. Thus, a Karate expert in the field of Martial arts needs thousand times more force of concentration and in a time thousand times less than one tennis player, to be able to break bricks.
Therefore, in the field of tennis the optimal level of the concentration, not only must be high, but, especially, maintained all along the duration of the match; what cannot be done without consequences of exhaustion of the potential energy (physical and psychic) of the player. From where the recourse to the contribution necessary out of oxygen, acid and sugar during the exercise of the sports activity, and in calories and substances energy the day before the sports activity (slow sugar, iron, vitamins).
To preserve this concentration on his optimal level and to maintain it during the time imposed by the duration of the match, the player needs to make great physical efforts and psychic before and during the exercise of the sports activity.
Therefore, the psychological preparation of the concentration starts much more before the match, and in this direction, certain recommendations are essential for the success of this psychological preparation:
• Vision of several different matches (in particular the video of the adversary), before the day of the match, for psychologically to program all the technical possibilities which can emerge in the match.
• To re-examine and memorize psychologically all the techniques, the actions and the reactions which take on a very important aspect and if required to be able to repeat itself during the match.
• Psychologically to program the anticipated reactions which will have to be adopted at the time of the match in answer to certain difficult situations where the player can be found.
• Psychologically to program the reactions or the actions who never not to be practiced during the match. For example, to break the racket or to change it at each time when a ball is not well placed.
Thus, the fact of yielding to the care of change of the racket, without any objective reason, can influence the psychological potential of the player and affect the optimal level of its concentration.
Also and by superstition, with each time one changes a racket when the play is very beautiful, it is the contrary effect which will occur. Therefore, in general, one should change racket only when the play is not well or during the Set.
• To revise and memorize the technical councils most important for not to forget them the day of the match (before and during the part). For example, the preliminary warm-up, the manner of avoiding the double-faults, the way of playing, the strategy and tactics to be adopted, the psychological councils, etc
• To re-examine and memorize the strong points and the weak points of the adversary to prepare consequently.
• To program psychologically the anticipated exceptional reactions which can answer to unexpected exceptional situations (behavior of the public, exaggeration of the referee, abnormal reaction of the adversary, etc)
• To program psychologically the sporting behavior to adopt before and during the match; as well as the method and the means of recovery and relaxation. For example, in a very tight match where the psychological tension is very strong, it is always necessary to benefit from the entertainment of the public to release, recover and control the emotion and the nerves, and sometimes, when the play is not well, it is necessary to try to change some trick (wristband, headband and racket, etc.).
• To envisage and prepare the sporting effects (clothing and shoes of sport, water, food and drinks energy, etc.) and never not to choose something again for the first time the day of the match.
• To develop, reinvigorate and strengthen the psychological potential of the self-control and the self estimate. For example, one never should under estimating or to over-estimate the adversary, one never should start a match in a psychological state of weakness, of under estimate or over-estimate of oneself, one never should start a match in a state of pessimism or of excessive optimism, and, finally, it is always necessary to start a match with a great motivation, a great sensitizing on the stakes, and, especially, with a great conviction and a great will to gain it.
• During the time of match, to avoid making useless movements which can disturb the system of concentration, and to try to center our concentration on our position, our actions and reactions, our natural reflexes, our tactic of play and the sporting behavior and on the method of play of the adversary.
* In addition, for those which have the optimal level of concentration very weak, they can develop it through the exercise of certain sports activities of relaxation like the Yoga, the Table tennis, the Golf, the Shooting with the arc, the play of the Darts, the Billiards and the Parachuting.
P.S: For the match of today, they are the same instructions as those of yesterday. God preserves you! Go Ahead Maria! Good Chance and God Bless You! Kisses
Congratulation! Maria for this great victory, it was a little difficult, but the most important it is that you gained and passed to the 1/4 of final. For the next matches it is necessary to avoid this tactic of play which was far from your true game and your technical method. Because, you have too much exploited the center by giving very easy balls to your adversary who has profited to shoot on the wings and to gain points free.
Also, you did not play much the tactics of the feints which remain your principal asset to gain a match. It should be said that, today, the lack of concentration and slowness in displacement were the principal disadvantages in this match.
What has facilitated the play for your adversary which had a very good concentration and a high degree of preciseness in the play. On the other hand, your lack of precision and those services missed were the main obstacles which did not facilitate the play during "the serves for match"
I ask you if you had badly with the wrist? If it is the case, I advise to you to make preventive therapeutic sessions. Also, I do not know why you do not put the wristband? However they can get you a psychological sensation of solidity and to consolidate your wrists when you shoot the powerful serves, also you can use them to sponge your sweat.
Your method of play during this match was based on the prudence, which is a good tactic. But, prudence does not want to say that you return too balls towards the center near of the adversary so that it profits to gives the powerful blows towards the sides and marks the points.
Therefore, it is always necessary to make run the adversary and never facilitate the play to him. A shot ball towards the corner, with the same power as that which is shot towards the center, is likely more to fall inside space of the court and to mark the points.
Also, a shot ball with power is very fast and can mark the point, but when it is shot far from the adversary, it with the advantage of being distant and, therefore, is likely much more to mark the point, in addition to the fact that it exhausts the adversary.
In addition, I am very sorry for this slip, but I think that it came at the good moment to hustle you a little of your slowness of the beginning of the match. Good Chance for Wednesday and good courage. That God preserves you! Kisses
Today, I would like to speak to you on 3 very important technical points in a match of tennis: 1) Slip on the ground. 2) Diversion in the tactics. 3) The psychological point:
Slip on the ground
The slip on the ground in the tennis court is a very fast tactic of displacement which can help the player to intercept a ball which is far from him and which can never catch up with him through his normal race.
Thus, with practical exercises of speed series and in the friendly matches, with some gymnastic sessions and with shoes of sport adapted to surface of the ground, the player can improve his displacement on the course of tennis and perfect his play on this technical side which is very important for a tennis player so that it can gain his match.
Diversion in the tactics
The diversion in the tactics is a technique which consists in choosing the play of the feints in various ways, so that the adversary thinks that our play is unpredictable and no has method; What causes in him a certain demobilization and a lack of concentration, from where lack of natural reflexes and a great probability of making faults in the defense system of its play, which gives the advantage to the player of leading the play to its manner and of gaining the match.
The best example in this idea is: when you see a player who remains inert in front of a bullet passing very close to him, while he can catch another ball which is so much further. It is a matter of natural reflexes previously programmed.
The psychological point
The psychological point is an action which consists in gaining the last point which can make it possible to the player to gain the match. This last part of the play (the psychological point) which is indicated by the score of 40/0, 40/15 or 40/30 is a stage of most sensitive and most delicate, because technically it represents the equivalent, in time and physical effort, of a whole Set, and, as of time, of 2 or 3 Sets when it is in GS of men.
From its very great importance in the match, this psychological point became very psychological and can sometimes cause a great crispation in the player, who can lead to a great contraction of his muscles and, sometimes, until a physical blocking of his movements and gestures.
It is this psychological importance which causes in the player a very great fear which can will make him lose until six (06) attempts at continuation (when the score is of 40/0) to gain this part (psychological point) and all the match.
Thus, the solution with this psychological handicap can be only in the psychological way above all, because, it acts to exceed the emotion, the nerves, the fear and the crispation which cause the contraction and the blocking of his muscles.
Consequently, it is necessary that the player relaxes him and discharge his tension through gestures and movements of relaxation and is not let carry by the feelings of the emotion, the fear and this crispation which blocks his muscles.
Therefore, the player can benefit from the diversion of the public or something like that to relax himself, change his frame of mind, to relieve himself, take again his calm and his confidence in itself (here, the smile and the kind gestures towards the adversary and the public are very important and appreciable), recover his forces to try to gain this last part of the psychological point through the chances which still remain to him with the rest of attempts (6, 4 or 2) and to win his match. Good Chance for the semis and good courage!. That God preserves you! Kisses
What are the 12 main advices in the technical and physical level for a tennis player for to win her Match?
With Kvitova, I think that you know already how to play!? I insist on your preliminary warm-up before enter in the court and on the manner of enter in the game from the beginning and try to play quickly ; She is not like before. Good Chance and God preserve you! Kisses
You should remind these important advices:* No speed to the detriment of the accuracy* No beautiful game to the detriment of the result* No revert and cut far from the net* No rush* No too many balls in the center near the opponent* No shot powerful and risky in the second serve* No understatement or overstatement of the opponent* No change of racket when the game goes well
Hello! Maria;
Congratulation! for this nice Victory and great Match. Thank you! too for this good work it was your true game; you have been quiet, patient and determined, without any imprudence or haste. I wish you the same for the Final. Good Chance an God preserve you! Kisses
Here! Now that you arrived at this so much coveted final of the GS Roland Garros, you must be very careful and intelligent in your play, to avoid falling into the trap of the imprudence.
Don't leash you to invade by the emotion of the last moment and play your match up to the last point. The match of today is much more psychological than technical and does not have anything special, except that the adversary is new for you and, especially, that she regards himself as more at ease, since she does not have anything to lose.
Don't enter in its play and play like yesterday against Kvitova; it is the moment most favorable for you to gain the GS Roland Garros. Errani does not have particular or exceptional play like the players of top 10, but she has a very great will and an impeccable precision in the play, also she can hold a long rally.
You can beat it by your exceptional technical play through the powerful serves, the feints and the intelligent techniques. Thus, the same recommendations are of rigor for this match of the great finale of GS Roland Garros. Concentrate yourself very much from this evening and that God preserves you. Good Chance! Kisses
You should remind these important advices, in addition to your preliminary warm-up before enter in the court of tennis:* No speed to the detriment of the accuracy* No beautiful game to the detriment of the result* No revert and cut far from the net* No rush* No too many balls in the center near the opponent* No shot powerful and risky in the second serve* No understatement or overstatement of the opponent* No change of racket when the game goes well
Hello! MariaCongratulation! Congratulation! Congratulation for this GS Roland Garros Trophy, this nice Victory and this great Match. Thank you very much! too for this big Supremacy, this nice Elegance and this kind Modesty. I am very happy for you, it was your most expensive goal from long time and you reach it now with a big merit. Also, it was our big wish all; you deserve this big GS Tophy and, too, this big Title of Number One in the World.I wish you the same way for the rest of this sport saison 2012 and for the futur saisons. Go Ahead! Maria, you are in the good way to build your tennis Legend and your own School and Style of play in tennis.Congratulation! again and take advantage of this nice event for enjoy your best time and holiday with all your Family, Coach and Friends. Good Chance and God preserves you! Kisses
Hello! Maria;
That is a very nice news; I wish you great participation in Olympic Games and big Success with a Gold Medal. God preserves you! Kisses :)
How are you? I hope that you are ready to continue in this best way of success and to take up this big Challenge; since your task now will be very sensitive; because, I think that you know, already, your big task and how is important your place of Number One in the World and how many opponents like this position?
Your goals will be very important, since you should defend your important margin points and your Title of Number One in the World. Also, you need to reach your big dream to upstairs the top of podium in the Olympic Games, I wish you the Gold Medal in this Games.
Wimbledon is the way to confirm your Supremacy as World Champion N°1 and, also, for take good position toward the Olympic competitions.
I wish you great continuation in this way and big Success in Olympic Games with a Gold Medal. God preserves you! Kisses
P.S: As I know that you need always my advices, I don't like ask you if I will continue in this way. But, I only like ask why there are so many anonymous users in this private Website?
I think that you know that is not in your advantage; since there are others opponents who can come here for to know all about you technical details in tennis and, perhaps, use this forum for doubtful objectives. I suggest, in this case, that all users should put their true identity; since this Website is not a social Network.
Hello! Masha
Today I don't like talk about your play, since I don't canned see your 2 last matches and I don't like repeat the same thing several time. Only, I would like remember you about one very important thing, which, perhaps, you have forget.
You can remember that the 2 last years in all GS Tournaments, the thing the most important for so many players, after the GS Trophy, is the fact to beat Sharapova. That is the clean reality because you are very important player and your Style of game is very special. Now this is the same thing, especially since you are now the Number One in the World.
We can't reproach to the other players their willpower to want beat you, but you shouldn't give them the opportunity to do that; You are the best and any player can't beat you if you play your true game. It is so important, since it's important to defend your Title and your points, off course it's important not to make any mistakes.
There are a games in each match which can be considered most important than a match itself, like the psychological point (point match) which can so important than all the match and all the last rounds; of course, you don't have right for mistakes.
Since in this tournament they are so many big players who play very well and not do so much mistakes as Julia Goerges, LiZicki, Kerber, Arankxa Rus. There are those players who can have a good game as yours and they have a very hight level of precision, which is the major Asset in the match of tennis.
I wish you great continuation in this way and big Success in this GS Wimbledon. Good Chance and God preserves you! Kisses
Hello! Maria
I think that you know very well Lizicki and her style of play; she is a good player but you are the best. The preciseness is her mean asset, so you shouldn't facilitate to her the play.
Go One Masha! you have to defend your points and your title of Number One in the World. Good Chance and God preserves you! Kisses
P.S: I don't canned see the matches of these first rounds of GS Wimbledon; because they haven't any programation in our channels. It's for this reason that I don't have a new technical advices for you.
Hello! Masha
How are you? I hope that you began again well after all this energy spent at the time of the last tournaments and this unhappy exit, a little early, of the GS Wimbledon. Also, I wish that you make a good return to the house.
Before entering in the concept of preparation of the Olympic Games 2012, I will want to summarize, in two words, this last stage of Wimbledon where you left yourself, a little, to carry by weakening due to the emotion and the natural decrease resulting from the culminating level of high efficiency.
Although I could not see your last matches to be able to analyze your technical weaknesses, but while following your match against Lisicki on Internet Live Score, I could note that you lost this match because of certain decisive games which you did not know to control.
It will never be repeated enough, certain games in a match of tennis (serve match, serve set and decisive serve; point match, point set and decisive point) have an importance and in time or in nominal value much strategic than the set or the match itself.
Therefore, it is necessary to manage these games with much attention, rigor, self-control and especially with a very great concentration. When it is a question of defending a title or a position of first place, one never should be let gain by the doubt, lassitude or the psychological weakness.
As example, I saw the finale match of Kerber against Paszek in AEGON International Tournament and I could note how Kerber to let pass his chance to gain the final trophy because of her lassitude and her manner of playing the match point like an ordinary game. Although she had 4 consecutive chances (match point 40/15) to gain the match and in spite of its power of service, she don't canned win it.
Today, I will want to draw your attention to certain points very important in your play of tennis, now that you decided to fully devote you to your career of tennis.
For the moment, there are the Olympic Games which are in sight and you must prepare consequently, since there remains to you a little spare time. In this particular vision of specific preparation of the J.O you are in the obligation to center your special program on certain technical aspects of your play which have very important and priority, these are the following points:
• Particular sessions of precision
• Particular sessions of movement
• Particular sessions of improvement of the natural reflexes
• Design of the instinctive technical action
There exist several methods and techniques to improve these technical aspects and there it is necessary to intensify, a little, your work on these points. On the other hand, for the last point, it is, a little, a work of psychological and spiritual design which consists in programming your brain to play instinctively on the technical actions while being based on situations of play of the preceding matches.
Here, it is about the Medal in the Olympic Games and I fear that you will don't have other occasions to concretize this dream. Therefore, it is necessary to be devoted a little more to tennis, since you will have to defend, also, your Title of the World Champion N°1.
I wish you much Courage and Chance for the Olympic Games. God preserves you! KISS


text:
Nobody does sports quite like HBO. Weve got your favorite moments captured here with the HBO Sports DVDs. Celebrate your favorite matches with the iconic HBO Boxing merchandise. Take a new look at all the classics with HBOs unique historical collections on DVD.
Can't find what you're looking for? Suggest a product ›


text:
Spice of Life
Alamelu Vairavan, a Whitefish Bay resident, is an author and culinary instructor. Alamelu has a passion for educating the public about the use of spices and legumes in preparing healthy and tasty foods. She is also interested in educating the public about the growing research that points to the enormous health benefits of spices in preventing many diseases. Her mission is to enrich people's culinary experience and to inspire them to discover that cooking and sharing healthful foods can be an especially joyful experience.
Visit Alamelu's web site, CurryOnWheels.com.


text:
NYU Giving / Give Now
1. Purpose of Gift >> 2. Personal Information >> 3. Payment Information >> 4. Confirmation
Thank you for making an online gift to New York University. The following pages will guide you through the easy process of making your gift, which can be designated to a variety of schools and programs throughout the University.
You may also donate without specifying a fund by describing how you wish your gift to be allocated.
To make a gift by mail:
Send your completed printable gift form with your check or credit card information to:
New York University
Office of Gift Administration
PO Box 2251
New York, NY 10116-2251
Please make checks payable to New York University.
To make a gift by phone:
Please call 1-800-NYU-4144 Monday - Friday between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM EST. NYU accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and American Express payments over the telephone.
If you experience any problems with the online form please call 1-800-698-4144 or email: email@example.com


text:
Looks can be deceiving. Take the Taylor Draw Hydroelectric Facility at Kenney Reservoir, for example. At a glance, it looks like it's about the size of a storage shed. That is, until you go inside.
Looks can be deceiving. Take the Taylor Draw Hydroelectric Facility at Kenney Reservoir, for example. At a glance, it looks like it's about the size of a storage shed. That is, until you go inside.
MEEKER I Aug. 26 will be an educational and entertaining day for those who have any tie to agriculture — or not. Agriculture, general business education, the "State of the County" address and renowned livestock handler and autism expert Temple Grandin are all on slate during the day.
MEEKER I Lifelong Meeker resident Regas Halandras was sworn in Tuesday night as the new mayor of Meeker, having moved up from his termed-out seat on the Meeker Town Board, where he had served eight years.
RANGELY I Rangely High School senior Tessa Slagle, one of two Colorado delegates chosen for the 2014 U.S. Senate Youth Program (USSYP), returned last month from "Washington Week," part of a national initiative aimed at helping students understand the inner workings of the U.S. government and to encourage careers in public service.
RANGELY I Twenty-two donors ages 6 to 43 donated a combined 247 inches of hair at the Pantene Beautiful Lengths ponytail cutting event on March 20 on the Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC) campus in Rangely.
Cary Baird, left, the community engagement specialist for Chevron, presents a check for $25,000 to Peggy Rector, president of the Colorado Northwestern Community College Foundation, left, and CNCC President Russell George, right, during the 10th Annual CNCC Foundation Dinner on Saturday night at CNCC. The check, dinner tickets and prolific bidders in the silent and […]
MEEKER I On Friday afternoon, amid cloudy and breezy skies, more than 120 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Pioneers Medical Center, two miles northeast of downtown Meeker.
MEEKER I Meeker was well represented with 10 teams at the 2014 Western Slope Regional Destination Imagination Tournament in Rifle during the past weekend. Six of those teams will be going to the state competition in April.
MEEKER I Roughly 90 people were present the evening of March 12 as the Rio Blanco County commissioners unveiled their concept drawing for turning the old Meeker Elementary School into a new justice center, which would hold the county jail, courts, sheriff's office, county attorney and staff and court-related offices.
Copyright © 2014 · News Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in


text:
More lenses
Mount type
To provide photographers with a broader perspective about mobiles, lenses and cameras, here are links to articles, reviews, and analyses of photographic equipment produced by DxOMark, renown websites, magazines or blogs.
Following on the from the lens recommendations for the new mid-range DX format Nikon D5300, we've now completed the assessment of the full-frame Nikon Df. We've tested the camera with more than 90 Nikkor and third-party prime lenses and zooms to assess image quality. Read onto find out which of these lenses perform best when paired with the new camera.
Launched in April 2012, this wide-angle prime lens from Nikon, with a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8, suggests it may be a great choice for landscape, architectural and reportage photography. A light weight of 330g also ensures it's easy to travel with and won't weigh heavily in your bag.
Added by Gandalfsson | June 05, 2013
Fine body choice
The D3x is certainly not discontinued, it is still the flagship for low iso = Landscapes and portraits for pro photographers, who need a solid body, much more solid than D800
Reply | Read all replies for this comment
Added by Cagey75 | July 23, 2013
Re: Fine body choice
As good as the D3X 'was' - you're bing overly sentimental about it. The D800/E is a better camera in terms of quality output. It's also rugged enough in it's own right. I don't know many who 'actually' need the security of the bigger pro bodies. Unless you cral through rocks and mud when shooting often?
Anyway, this lens has been tested on the D800 and got better scores for it, the overall lens database needs updating.
Added by Toshik | January 08, 2013
Body choice
Why did you attach new lenses to already discontinued D3X instead of testing them with D800[E]?
The same is with canon. 5D Mark III may be used instead of rather old Mark II.
Reply | Read all replies for this comment
Added by Cagey75 | July 23, 2013
Re: Body choice
It has now been updated and the lens, as expected performed much better on the D800, scoring 33 for sharpness over the original 29 it scored on the old D3X


text:
Back-to-school fashion tips for teens Add to ...
CP Video
Last updated
Watch More Video:
Back-to-school fashion tips for teens
Who's cuter: Baby Prince George or an Australian bilby?
Have you seen this dog? Brazen dog-napping caught on cam in Vancouver
"No comment" from White House on Bieber deportation petition
The sleek and sexy Mustang turns 50
Sick 8-year-old boy gets his wish to fly like Iron Man
Royals get puppy love before New Zealand trip wraps up
Kate makes music with sick kids in Australia, then hits the beach
Bryan Singer accuser speaks publicly about rape allegations
Toronto couple's dream home comes crashing down
Get ready to feel more pain at the gas pumps
Oral cancer rates among young people on the rise
Why 'job hopping' is a way of life for many Canadians
Selfie with passing train goes wrong
'X-Men' director Singer accused of drugging and raping teenager
Here's how $9,000 spent staging a Toronto loft paid off
Celebrity chef Chuck Hughes shares his favourite Canadian restaurants
Flight attendant makes hilarious speech to lucky travellers
How to get your home ready for spring (at last)
Margaret Trudeau talks women's health and depression
Victoria Secret fashion show goes to London; angels want to see Prince Harry there


text:
4400 E. Sunset Rd., Henderson, NV | Directions 8901436.071431 -115.077210
Sun - Thurs: 11:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M., Fri - Sat: 11:00 A.M. - 11:00 P.M.
Neighborhoods: Green Valley North
meh?!? – what do you want its olive garden, i mean the noodles arent hand made in Tuscany but its a decent bowl of pasta
Traditional dishes and all -you-can-eat salad, soup and bread sticks are the draw at this upscale-casual Italian restaurant. – In Short
Established in 1982, this chain gained a following for its laid-back atmosphere and generous portions. Patrons settle into comfortable booths and tables in dining rooms with plants, artwork and décor reminiscient of the villas in the Tuscan countryside. Starters include scampi, sausage or pepperoni pizza, and several soup choices, as well as a signature seafood dip (crab, shrimp, cheese and marinara). Entrees include classics like lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo and chicken parmigiana. There are also "Garden Fare" options, which promise 30 percent fewer calories.
McDonald's of Italy – Touting the Olive Garden chain as one of the "best Italian restaurants" is the equivalent of claiming that McDonald's has great burgers.
I'm sorry, but I find Olive Garden to be nothing short of the fast food equivalent for Italian food. Next thing you know, Long John Silver and H. Salt will be proclaimed to be excellent seafood restaurants.
Sign in with Facebook Sign in with Facebook to see what your friends are up to!
Do you have a review of Olive Garden on your blog? If you include the Citysearch image link (shown below) in your post, we'll automatically link to your review from the business profile page. Here's how our Linkback system works:
The Linkback system is free and automatic. It's really that easy.
To link to our business profile page, copy the html below to your web page.


text:
We are transitioning from our discussion forums platform to a new set of community support resources. Search or navigate your way to the answer you're looking for 24 hours a day, seven days a week! Here, you have access to product documentation, getting started tutorials, video training, developer resources, FAQs, and much more!
Brightcove team members will be increasing participation answering questions on Stack Overflow about Brightcove-related topics, e.g. those tagged "brightcove", "zencoder", "videocloud", or "video.js".
For an introduction to Stack Overflow, we recommend reviewing this article →
Brightcove also maintains a forum for the Native iOS and Android Player SDKs. The forum is currently private while the product is under Limited Availability. Any customers participating in this program will have access to this forum, we encourage you to contact your account manager for details.
Can't find the answer to your question in our support documentation or online forums? The Brightcove Support team is always here to help and will gladly assist you! Submit a Support Request →
Have you built code you could share? Check out opensource.brightcove.com →
Are you aware of upcoming scheduled system maintenance? Want a historical view of the system status for the last 30 days? Check out the new and improved Brightcove System Status →


text:
If the information in the courses below doesn't match what you're seeing, try viewing the training courses that describe Office 365 after the service upgrade.
Am I using Office 365 after the service upgrade?
Manage user accounts in Office 365
As an admin, you need to perform a variety of tasks to keep your organization running smoothly. Learn how to add users, update user information, buy and assign licenses, and change or reset passwords, for yourself and others.
Create a public email alias in Office 365
Create a public email alias in Office 365 by setting up a shared mailbox. You'll also learn about distribution groups, and how to use PowerShell to create the shared mailbox. Finally, you'll learn how to add the mailbox to either the Outlook Web App or the Outlook 2010 program.
Create an internal team alias in Office 365
Use a distribution group to make it easier to send email to a team of people in your organization. Using a team alias, you don't have to type individual email addresses for the members of a particular group. You'll learn how to create and use you team alias in both Outlook 2010 and Outlook Web App.
Share your Office 365 calendar
Learn how to share or publish your calendar in Outlook 2010 and Outlook Web App so that friends and colleagues can see your appointments and meetings. You'll learn how to control who can view the calendar and how much information they can see.
Configure Lync-to-phone for Office 365
If you are an administrator for Office 365 for enterprises, set up Lync-to-phone so that users in your organization can make and receive phone calls using a laptop or smart phone.
Configure Lync-to-phone for Unified Messaging
Set up users for voice mail with Exchange Online Unified Messaging so they can access voice mail and missed call notifications from Outlook 2010 or Lync 2010.
Looking for information on documents, team sites, or public websites? See Training courses for SharePoint 2010.
More Training courses


text:
We're very pleased to announce the programme for this year's Pilton Palais Cinema Tent (which you'll find in the Acoustic Field). It's a top notch line-up of films, which includes no fewer than three advance preview screenings of films which don't get officially released until after the Festival.
A first for this year is that all films are DCP's (Digital Cinema Packages's) which is rapidly becoming the standard format for commercial cinemas, with more than four times the resolution of DVDs. This also enables the tent to show 3D and they have six of the most popular 3D titles from the last 12 months, plus a hugely anticipated surprise 3D film on Sunday. The sound system is also set up for Dolby 7.1 channel sound.
See below for the programme - and click here for synopses of all the films. All films are listed in first to last running order.
Thursday (3pm-3.30am)
Despicable Me U 96mins
Thor 12A 114mins
Source Code 12A 93mins
Killing Bono 15 114mins
APS Count Down To Zero 15 91mins
APS Hobo With A Shotgun 90mins
Friday (11am-3.30am)
Rio U 95mins
Rango PG 107mins
Made in Dagenham 15 113mins
The King's Speech 12A 118mins
APS The Honey Killer Unrated (Advisory 15) 90mins
The Social Network 12A 120mins
APS Life in a day 12 95mins
Saturday (11am-3.30am)
Megamind PG 95mins
Tangled U 100mins
Submarine 15 97mins
Sucker Punch 12A 110mins
Pirates 4 12A 141mins
127 Hours 15 94mins
Adjustment Bureau 12A 106mins
APS Upside Down: The Creation Records Story 15 101mins
Sunday (11am-3am)
Surprise 3D Film U
Tron Legacy PG 125mins
Rio Breaks 12A 85mins
Monsters 12A 94mins
Paul 15 104mins
Inception 12A 148mins
The Fighter 15 116mins


text:
Selena Travel Mongolia - top Mongolian tour company invites you to high quality Mongolia tours, China tours, Siberia tours & Asia tours. Selena Travel is run by Mongolia tourism professionals, who aspire to fulfill the clients' Mongolia travel dreams and are recognized internationally by winning several prestigious tourism awards such as... more
Set departure tours!
book now!
Design your perfect private holiday with us!
Traveller testimonials
Stay connected with us
Recognition for Selena Travel LLC at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009
Selena Travel LLC has won in the Best for Conservation of Cultural Heritage category at this year's Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards organised by responsibletravel.com. At a ceremony hosted at World Travel Market (WTM), Docklands, London, on Wednesday 11th November, the Awards were handed out by Justin Francis, managing director of responsibletravel.com, organisers and founders of the Awards, and Amanda Wills, managing director of Virgin Holidays, headline sponsor of the Awards.
This unique, privately-held Mongolian tour operator has gone where no Mongolian travel organization has gone before: In 2002, Selena Travel forged a partnership with the nomadic community and the Mongolian government - a first. Then it established the Gun-Galuut Nature Reserve, creating an environmentally sustainable tourist destination not only to give visitors a sense of life on Mongolia's massive open plain, but to protect the reserve's ecosystem and conserve the area's traditional nomadic culture. Gun Galuut not only provides environmental protection and job opportunities for Mongolia's storied Nomadic people, it is a source of pride and a validation of their ancient heritage. In many parts of Mongolia, the lives of Nomads have hardly changed since the days of Genghis Khan. But today, globalization and Mongolia's rapid transition from a socialist to a free-market economy threaten their traditional way of life, which is deeply dependent on the health of the environment.
For a full list of finalists, see www.responsibletourismawards.com


text:
Mourinho's tactics can help Chelsea grind their way to title
Our friends at Squawka love stats, and so does Jose Mourinho. Here's why he is the man to break Liverpool's hearts. More »Eurosport - 44 minutes ago
Premier League - Suarez: Liverpool fans need to calm down
Luis Suarez has told Liverpool fans to stay calm as the Reds attempts to clinch their first league title in 24 years. More »Eurosport - 2 hours 44 minutes ago
Tennis - Nadal breezes into last eight with comfortable win
Rafa Nadal breezed into the quarter-finals of the Monte Carlo Masters after a 6-1 6-3 thrashing of Italy's Andreas Seppi. More »Eurosport - 2 hours 33 minutes ago
Copa del Rey - Bale's goal hailed after Real's win over Barca
Gareth Bale has been hailed by his manager and his team-mates after his stunning goal beat Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final. More »Eurosport - 4 hours ago
Premier League - Paper Round: Reus dreams of United move
Marco Reus is keen on leaving Borussia Dortmund to join Manchester United this summer. More »Eurosport - 6 hours ago
Premier League - Inter chief Thohir confirms Torres, Dzeko interest
Inter Milan president Erick Thohir has confirmed the Nerazzurri are looking to bring in a top striker this summer, with Manchester City's Edin Dzeko and More »Eurosport - 3 hours ago
Premier League - Commission could settle Cardiff 'leak' row
An independent commission may be asked to rule on Cardiff's complaint that their team line-up was leaked to Crystal Palace. More »Eurosport - 1 hour 59 minutes ago
Champions League - Ronaldo recovering well, could still miss Bayern clash
Cristiano Ronaldo is recovering well from knee and thigh injuries but still could miss the Champions League tie with Bayern. More »Eurosport - 5 hours ago
Snooker - O'Sullivan to face Hull in first round of World Championships
Defending champion Ronnie O'Sullivan will open his bid for a sixth World Championship title against Finland's top player Robin Hull. More »Eurosport - 1 hour 51 minutes ago
Tennis - Monte Carlo Masters: LIVE
Follow game-by-game scoring of the Monte Carlo Masters. More »Eurosport - 19 minutes ago
Formula 1 - Vettel: Upgrades won't help Red Bull catch Mercedes
Sebastian Vettel expects a step forward from the Red Bull Formula 1 team in this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix, but accepts Mercedes is out of reach. More »Eurosport - 39 minutes ago
Easter's Premier League games predicted… by SHEEP
A flock of spring lambs from West Sussex were today on 'sheep'-shape form as they took part in the world's first ever game of 'lamb football'. More »Eurosport - 1 hour 1 minute ago
Liga - Barca on verge of first trophyless season in six years
Barcelona's painful loss to Real Madrid brings leaves them facing their first season without a trophy in six years. More »Eurosport - 13 hours ago
European Football - Ten see yellow, two red and coaches off as Benfica beat Porto
Ten players were booked, two sent off, both coaches were dismissed and fans ran on to the pitch as Benfica beat Porto 3-1. More »Eurosport - 5 hours ago
Premier League - Pellegrini hopeful but Manchester City's dream seems over
Manuel Pellegrini conceded that Manchester City's title hopes have suffered a serious blow after they were held by Sunderland. More »Eurosport - 7 hours ago
Premier League - Poyet: Suarez will be pleased with Sunderland result
Gus Poyet admitted his compatriot Luis Suarez would be delighted after the Black Cats' secured a 2-2 draw at Manchester City. More »Eurosport - 2 hours 37 minutes ago
Golf - Westwood grabs early Malaysian Open lead
England's Lee Westwood shrugged off jet lag and an opening bogey to fire a superb seven-under-par 65 to lead in Malaysia. More »Eurosport - 4 hours ago
Boxing - Hopkins, 49, looks to make more history
Boxing's oldest ever world champion Bernard Hopkins looks to once again make history this weekend. More »Eurosport - 2 hours 17 minutes ago
Formula 1 - Alonso: I'll give new Ferrari boss time to succeed
Fernando Alonso says new Ferrari boss Matteo Mattiacci wil be given the time to succeed. More »Eurosport - 4 hours ago
Formula 1 - Prost: Rule changes were essential
Alain Prost says Formula 1 had to change its rules if it was to thrive, as he hit out at the sport's recent critics. More »Eurosport - 4 hours ago


text:
Carlsen in firm lead at World Rapid Championship after day 2 (VIDEO)
After ten rounds of play, Magnus Carlsen has a 1.5 point lead over Sergey Karjakin and Veselin Topalov. Tomorrow the last five rounds of the World Rapid Championship will be played in Astana, Kazakhstan. Carlsen still has to play against Ismagambetov, Ivanchuk, Grischuk, Radjabov and in the final round Topalov.
Magnus Carlsen poised to win the World Rapid Championship in Astana | All photos © ChessVibes
On the day that Serena Williams clinched her fifth Wimbledon title, to the regret of Polish Chief Arbiter Andrzej Filipowicz, Magnus Carlsen added another four points to his score. One of his victims was Sergey Karjakin, the co-leader after five rounds, who is 1.5 points behind Carlsen after ten rounds. Veselin Topalov had a good second day and joins second place with Karjakin.
Here's our video report of rounds 6-10:
Some chess and tennis fans had difficulty in chosing what to watch on Saturday: the live coverage of the World Rapid in Astana, or the Women's Wimbledon final. Two well known grandmasters exchanged some tweets about this tough problem (and probably simply watched both):
Wimbledon ladies final starts. Well, Serena is an obvious favourite vs Radwanska, by her experience of GS finals and by her level so far.
@Vachier_Lagrave Oh, no, don't tell me you prefer Wimbeldon to Rapid Chess WCh... Patzer!
@anishgiri I follow it too, but one always have to settle their priorities.
@Vachier_Lagrave Sad story...
To please @anishgiri : it might be the decisive game between #Carlsen and #Karjakin to decide World Rapid Championship, in the 10th round.
@Vachier_Lagrave Thanks, having tears in my eyes from joy. Indeed! But it's a long way to go, tomorrow one more day with lots of rounds...
@anishgiri I knew this would move you. And well, sure, anything can still happen. But still!
Later Vachier-Lagrave tweeted some more about the game, for instance
27...Nxf5 seemed to be a tactical mistake but the refutation could definitely not be found in a rapid game, but it was a beautiful one!
Here is that game between Carlsen and Karjakin. The decisive mistake was 53...Rc4+ where 53...Bf6 is good enough to draw.
Carlsen beats Karjakin in round 10
Although he has a commanding lead of 1.5 points over Karjakin and Topalov, Carlsen isn't there yet. His program for the last day includes former Blitz World Champions Ivanchuk and Grischuk and also Radjabov. The Norwegian starts with a game against tail-ender Ismagambetov but in the final round he has Black against Topalov.
Games day 2
World Rapid Championship 2012 | Round 10 standings
Pairings day 3
I agree with you. I would also like to add that Capablanca wasn't the best opening theoretician either.
1 year 9 months ago
Looking into my crystal ball I predict Carlsen losing a game to Topalov or Ivanchuk. Picture is a bit unclear, so I can't quite make out to whom. But,... it says he wins :)
Another thing: Carlsen is dangerous, in any time control. His understanding and handling of the game is superior to his rivals, consistently throughout the last few years. What a player!
I'd substitute "bad openings" and "superior chess understanding" by extremely well known sidelines and strong nerves, but ok, everyone is entitled to their beliefs. Still I advise you all to take a look at the games, especially the ones against his rivals Mamedyarov and Karjakin. And if you can show me the deep plans behind his superior understanding there I would be deeply grateful.
Hi S3,
I am not a Carlsen fanatic like some others on this forum, but there is no doubt that at his best (which is frequent), he possesses an edge that others lack. It can be called talent, understanding, luck, physical condition, or a combination thereof, but it is something. Kramnik's NiC interview a couple of issues ago gave an interesting description of Mangnus' strengths.
Of course Niima (and I know you are :). He obviously has special qualities. I just wouldn't search it in "superior chess understanding" but mainly in the area of competitive qualities and sportsmanship.. Things like stability, nerves, time management, tenacity/youth, fearlessness and psychological edges; he is very practical.
But I think there are several players who (are able to) play "deeper" chess, making their games more inspiring to me and making me believe they would have good chances against Magnus anytime.
p.s.I'd love to expand on my notion of "deeper chess" after Kamalakanta has demonstrated his "superior understanding".
No less than Vladimir Kramnik put this issue to rest.
He said Carlsen is the strongest player now.
Certain players inspire me to play chess more, and increase my love for the game, through their games....Lasker, Rubinstein, Capablanca, Alekhine, Smyslov, Bronstein, Tal...and Carlsen!
Well put, kamalakanta. Cheers to all the haters, including (but not limited to) bronkenstein, reality check, S3, thomas :-)
I can't understand why you would include Thomas, the most objective and well informed commentator around here.
I can only explain it by the almost religious zealotism that characterizes so many followers of the Carlsen cult making them think everyone else to be anti Carlsen.
So you agree about bronkenstein, reality check and yourself being haters, not bad. Thomas is a kramnik fanboy, and they hate Carlsen.
My fav player is Shirov. Cheers :)
First things first; Cheers.
And for the rest, brilliant detective work. I can't speak for the others but obviously I am full of hate. That is however my prerogative as the great Britney Spears would say.
Anyone who doesn't quite share the hype around Carlsen (or Nakamura) is quickly dubbed a hater - if you aren't 120% for these guys you're against them.
Today I could only follow the last round (including Carlsen-Karjakin). What should I say, benefitting from the opponent's time trouble to win a game is legitimate, and promising particularly in rapid, and the winner is always right. But as far as I am concerned it doesn't inspire me to play chess even more.
BTW I do not consider myself a Kramnik fanboy - but OK, who would call himself a fanboy? From my point of view, I just feel obliged to respond to the hate that Kramnik sometimes gets. For example - as Amber was already mentioned in this thread - emphasizing Vlad's last Amber result to somehow suggest that many earlier and far better ones are sort of irrelevant.
Hype? So, Nakamura and Giri, yes. But Carlsen, no. He's the real deal, I'm afraid.
I'm with you , I like big Vlad. Cheers :-)
"Anyone who doesn't quite share the hype around Carlsen (or Nakamura) is quickly dubbed a hater"
When Carlsen's achievements time and time again are described as "hype", and anyone being happy about great chess is called a fanboy just because the great chess is played by Carlsen, it gets extremely repetitive after a while.
"What should I say, benefitting from the opponent's time trouble to win a game is legitimate, and promising particularly in rapid, and the winner is always right. But as far as I am concerned it doesn't inspire me to play chess even more"
If Carlsen had lost that game I think your description would be less bitter. Carlsen doesn't wins by "benefitting from the opponents time trouble", he creates problems and increases the pressure and eventually the opponent often cracks.
What's your point redivo, if he had lost that game there wouldnt have been a post to reply on for Thomas in the first place. And besides there is nothing bitter about his comment.
It's very simple, the facts don't correspond with Kamalakanta's hymn.
Maybe MC's practical result-chess (tire-distract-and flag) is inspiring to you but I'd rather see a random Jobava game for inspiration and chess understanding.
My point is that when Thomas states that Carlsen (like against Karjakin) wins just because the opponents somehow end up in time trouble and blunder, and that it's not inspiring to see, he shows how biased he is. Carlsen has been playing some amazing endgames, putting his opponents in all kinds of trouble again and again and in the end they just haven't been able to solve all the problems Carlsen gives them. If Karjakin wins a game the same way against Grischuk there are no complaints of the same sort.
It's not much different from your calling Carlsen's playing style "tire-distract and flag", or bronkenstein's talking about that Carlsen once again exposing what kind of person he is by playing this rapid event instead of boycotting it to support Ponomariov for not wanting to participate in the qualification because he qualified for a blitz tournament that was cancelled last year. It's just the type of comments that show how biased some people are against Carlsen. I think Pono just should have played the qualification like Andreikin did, and I don't agree that it reflects badly on Carlsen that he didn't boycott the event.
Thanks for helping me to make my point:
"If Karjakin wins a game the same way against Grischuk there are no complaints of the same sort."
If Karjakin (or anyone else but Carlsen) wins in such a fashion against Grischuk (or anyone else including Carlsen), there may be no complaints but nor will there be epic praise for the winner applying relentless pressure etc. - people will simply say that the loser blundered.
"Amazing endgames" are something else to me - gradually converting a small advantage which commentators (and even engines) either don't even see at the beginning, or consider insufficient for a win. A key factor is that it is, even after the game, hard to tell, when where and why the loser went astray. Carlsen played such games - so did others who are less popular among fans: not only Kramnik, also Leko and Gelfand.
"Inspiring" was in response to kamalakanta at the very start of this subthread - I presume that he is an amateur like most people commenting here, myself included. Some amateurs might want to have results like Carlsen - at their level, becoming #1 in their club or region. But - taking such wins as vintage Carlsen - how many amateurs would want to play like Carlsen? All the other names he mentioned have something particular about their style (or almost all, cannot comment on Bronstein) and some amateurs might want to play like them. In those cases, inspiration comes from the games, not just from the results!?
Of course that's not the whole story about Carlsen: I would characterize him as an universal player who doesn't have many weaknesses, and his main edge over his competitors is consistency - he is #1 not only because he wins tournaments, but also because he very rarely has bad results. His main weakness may be opening preparation, and (according to some comments) amateurs actually like it. Well, how many amateurs would want to prepare their openings like a 'typical' 2700+ player? It would be an illusion anyway as they don't have the time, energy and resources (to hhire seconds etc.).
Most of the hate directed at Kramnik is because, like Petrosian, he plays not to lose. Most people want to see fighting chess and players trying to win. Exhibit A: VK's use of the Berlin Defense.
Complaining about Kramnik playing the Berlin defense is a great way to show ignorance. Is it a fanclub-requirement to know nothing about chess history? Reminds me of mr. Runde aka frogbert before the start ot the wccycle when he told us that Gelfand's first top level succes was in 2007 and that he was no serious candidate.
Get your facts straight before you talk, Kramnik playing the Berlin was one of the landmarks of modern chess.
"Runde aka frogbert before the start ot the wccycle when he told us that Gelfand's first top level succes was in 2007 and that he was no serious candidate"
You've been mentioning this at least a dozen times now under your two most common handles, but Runde wasn't the only person not to see Gelfand as a serious Candidate.
I think the Chessvibes poll had 1% picking him as the winner in Kazan, just like few picked also Kasimdzhanov and Khalifman to win the knockouts they won. Gelfand won and it was a surprise, but there's no point to keep complaining about Runde just because he is a Carlsen fan.
1 year 9 months ago
True. S3 aka sitzkrieg, returnoftheking, anonymous, (S,S1,S2?), is known for his obsessive-compulsiveness. Several of his handles were permanently banned elsewhere, but the poor sod just can't help it.
His post showed, and he acknowledged later, that he didn't even know Gelfand's career before 2000, and "anonymous" posts shows an unhealthy disregard of chess history as well. Just a little bit of reseach would prevent these ridiculous assertions but unfortunately the monomania has spread.
"He plays not to lose" is a cliche about Kramnik that may have been true some years ago, and even then it was rather "playing for two results" with limited risk of losing - he wouldn't have stayed in the absolute world top for many years if he hadn't won some games (same holds or held true for Leko). Anyway, Kramnik's style has changed after his WCh match against Anand, do you actually follow chess??
As to the Berlin defense, it's also played by more popular players such as Carlsen, Nakamura and Aronian - not as a main weapon but still. Given that they are all younger than Vlad, they may have been inspired by Kramnik?
1 year 9 months ago
Wow, IsmagambetovA is playing exactly as one would pretend before the tournament. Exactly playing according his elo. Great!
1 year 9 months ago
Didnt anand win the Botvinnik Memorial with all the best players of the world in it.. why the dispute.. Carlsen is the best currently .. just loses in top rapid tournaments with the best around and chickens from the WC cycle .. lol
"just loses in top rapid tournaments with the best around"
Mike Magnan
1 year 9 months ago
Fun Tournament. Everyone is about where they should be I'd imagine..though I would have thought Tkachiev and Ivanchuk to be a little higher. Still one more day to go. Carlsen does not strike me as someone who bends to "Nerves" He's clearly the best.
1 year 9 months ago
Topalov-Radjabov was quite entertaining. Looks like black over-estimated his play on the Q-side.
1 year 9 months ago
I saw a dozen times that GMs, when playing equal endgames against untitled opponents, were "shuffling" a lot and using then slightest mistakes to catch the win. The same seems to happen in Mcs games regularly- but against world-class. Why do guys like Mamedyarow or Karjakin break in the final stage? Whats the indication?
1 year 9 months ago
The indication is that drawn endings are not so simple to draw against a determined and patient opponent with good endgame technique.
I think it is a matter of chess character. Players that are used to getting agreed draws at a certain stage of the game become impatient and eventually go wrong. There is no excuse for them because they know Carlsen does this and that they have to play him. The top GM's will just have to spend a little more time studying the ending instead of all opening study. Character.
Topalov's style is very difficult to handle at a rapid time control
Interesting comments from both Carlsen and Topalov, nice video coverage.
1 year 9 months ago
Nice to see Topalov playing for the top spots. Best of luck for the final day!
How can you patzer's not see that Magnus is playing at the next level?
He plays DRAWN positions - and wins. He isn't careless, he just grinds them down. He doesn't play boring like Anand, Gelfand none of this so called 'solid' play.
Of course he would of probably drawn yesterday if the sofia rule wasn't in - but remember the sofia rule is in and he still wins.
Carlsen will re-write history, just watch and enjoy.
How can you patzer's not see that Magnus is playing at the next level?
He plays DRAWN positions - and wins. He isn't careless, he just grinds them down. He doesn't play boring like Anand, Gelfand none of this so called 'solid' play.
Of course he would of probably drawn yesterday if the sofia rule wasn't in - but remember the sofia rule is in and he still wins.
Carlsen will re-write history, just watch and enjoy.
Your commentBy posting a comment you are agreeing to abide our Terms & Conditions
Latest articles
19 hours 46 min ago
1 day 42 min ago
1 day 19 hours ago
1 day 22 hours ago
2 days 19 hours ago
3 days 14 hours ago
3 days 23 hours ago
4 days 18 hours ago
6 days 7 hours ago
1 week 22 hours ago
1 week 1 day ago
1 week 1 day ago
1 week 2 days ago
1 week 3 days ago
1 week 4 days ago
1 week 4 days ago
1 week 5 days ago
1 week 5 days ago
1 week 6 days ago
2 weeks 1 day ago