tailieunhanh - The Science of Soccer

Football is by far the world’s most popular game. Millions play the game and hundreds of millions are entertained by it, either at football grounds or through television. Despite this the scientific aspects of the game have hardly been recog- nised, let alone discussed and analysed. This is in contrast to some other games which have received much more attention, particularly so in the case of golf. | The Science ofSoccer The Science of Soccer JOHN WESSON Although soccer is the world s most popular game its science has received very little attention. This fascinating book deals with a wide range of subjects where scientific analysis can be applied to soccer. Starting with a qualitative description of the basic physics relating to the ball and Its bounce it then moves through kicks and throws to a simple account of the more complex physics of a ball in flight. The second part of the text is concerned with subjects where the science does not relate to well-established physics but where a scientific curiosity uncovers aspects of the game which are not normally discussed. This includes a look at game theory how the rules affect the flow and enjoyment of the game why the best team does not always win unusual statistics about players and an insight into the economics of the game. Forthose with a more mathematical interest in the physics the final chapter provides a readable account of the theory behind the beautiful game . The Science of Soccer will be an invaluable insight to players fans and students of sport science alike. Contents The ball and the bounce The kick Throwing heading catching The ball in flight The laws Game theory The best team The players Economics Mathematics About the author John Wesson was bom in Leicester. Leaving school at fifteen to become a factory worker he then ừained as an engineer before taking a degree in Physics at Leicester University. He started his research career in experimental atomic and plasma physics and then moved to theoretical physics receiving doctorates from London University. Outside physics he has applied mathematics to a wide range of subjects Initiating the theory of optimal taxation and providing a theoretical analysis of the English golf handicap system. He played soccer until his retirement and now plays golf tennis table tennis and .