WEEK 2

Week 2 of my FIFA Master journey commenced with a 'field visit' to the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club; Wimbledon.  Was incredible to walk the halls of past champions, take a tour around Centre Court and Court 1 and visit the Wimbledon Museum.  We also heard a couple of speeches from tournament delegates and even got to sit in the interview chair that the players frequent after their matches. 

Today we presented our first assessment on 'How well Wimbledon has adapted to the changing world of modern sport'.  Alex, Rob, Diana, Aneeqah and myself all presented a very good argument and we were pleased with our efforts.  Will be interesting to see the marks from all presentations once they're released.  We decided to use a debate format which was unique compared to the other presentation styles and I'm hoping this enabled us to differentiate ourselves from the rest. I guess only time will tell!

DAY 4

Our first guest speaker, Rob Lake spoke to the class today.  He gave his findings on his report into the history/structure of the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association) in Britain and the struggles for the nation to produce world class tennis players.  The last British Wimbledon Champion was Fred Perry in 1936! Last female won it in 1977, and last Davis Cup victory was also 1936.  I find that incredible considering that tennis has a long and diverse history in the country.  However, from what I've heard through various people, it is extremely difficult to change the habits of some of the people who run these organisations.  They have held committee positions for years and are against change on almost every level.  Our first group task was established and I will be presenting with Alex, Rob, Diana and Aneeqah on 'How well has Wimbledon adapted to the changing world of modern sport?'

DAY 3

Official lectures commenced today based on sport as a construct and its many various definitions/forms. A good book which delves into this topic is Allen Guttmann's 'From Ritual to Record'. An overview was also given on the history of tennis. This led to the class being informed that we are visiting WIMBLEDON on Monday! Very excited to peruse the 'All England Club' which is widely regarded as the 'home' of tennis. Not sure if I'll get to have a hit out on Centre Court but here's to optimism!

QUOTE OF THE DAY: Border Security to Oscar Wilde:
BS: 'Sir, do you have anything to declare?'
OW: 'Nothing but my genius!'

DAY 2

Today we had our 'official' photographs taken on the lawns of Trinity Chapel at De Montfort.  The weather held off for the photos which was very lucky.  Also had personal shots taken for the FIFA handbook and document to be distributed amongst industry executives.  Also provided with a nice lunch by the University.  Great to meet members of the CIES Scientific and Executive Committees and to be officially welcomed into the program. Lectures commence at 9am tomorrow morning.  Better get some sleep.

DAY 1

First day of introductions at De Montfort University. Listened to presentations from Vincent Schatzmann (CIES General Secretary), James Panter (De Montfort Admin), John Cavenaghi (SDA Bocconi Admin) and Stefano Aloise (UniNE and CIES Admin).  Formal gathering tomorrow before lectures commence on Wednesday.  No mucking about!

THE DAY HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!

Well it has been more than 12 months in the making but we are finally here.  Tomorrow, 19th September 2011, the FIFA Master 12th Edition will officially commence.  I'm extremely excited to start the course.  It has been a long wait, full of anticipation.  I have now met almost all of the 29 candidates.  Everyone seems very friendly and keen to start.  I am very much looking forward to the exciting times ahead.