Sam Maxwell

Australian Open Update: Matt Ebden to play first match on Margaret Court Arena

2011-01-18T05:37:00.000+08:00

After an impressive start to 2011, Matt Ebden will play today’s first match on Margaret Court Arena at the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

Ebden’s opponent will be American Michael Russell, an experienced competitor who made his Grand Slam debut at the 1998 US Open and has gone on to play in 18 additional majors.

A first round match against Russell is a much kinder draw than what Ebden drew in 2010 when he played flamboyant Frenchman Gael Monfils.

However, Ebden is well aware of Russell’s experience and knows that it will be a tough match.

"I don't think it's one of the better draws ... the guy I'm playing has been a good player for many years," Ebden said.

"But he's getting a bit older now, so hopefully I can be the young guy who knocks him off.

"He knows what he's doing out there. He'll be tough to overcome, but it'll be a good test for me."

Ebden’s performances over the past month, which included a quarter final appearance against current world #4 Robin Soderling at the Brisbane International has drawn significant praise from Australian tennis greats in John Newcombe, Wally Masur and Lleyton Hewitt, who all believe that the West Australian has the game, and the work ethic, to be a top 40 player.

Ebden’s match against Russell will get underway at 11am AEST on Margaret Court Arena, a venue that will also play host to a number of other Australian players later in the afternoon including Alicia Molik and Anastasia Rodionova.

Margaret Court, the player whom the venue is named after, and someone who has offered advice and assistance to Ebden throughout his career so far, will be in attendance along with the patriotic Australian crowd.

Matt Ebden receives Australian Open Wildcard

2010-12-28T10:07:00.000+08:00

Matt Ebden will this afternoon be confirmed by Tennis Australia as a recipient of a wildcard for direct entry in to next month’s Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

Ebden has enjoyed a consistent season throughout 2010 in a year that has seen him reach a career high ranking of 162 in the world, establish himself in the Australian Davis Cup squad and also qualify for his first Grand Slam main draw appearance at the Australian Open.

At the Australian Open Wildcard Playoff event prior to Christmas, Ebden lost a tight semi-final in a deciding third set tiebreak to Australian #2 Peter Luczak, with Luczak having to save off four match points to defeat his younger opponent.

While the wildcard now gives the West Australian finality as to the tournaments he will play throughout January, he is taking nothing for granted and is looking forward to a strong showing throughout the Australian summer.

"It's a massive honour and achievement in itself to receive the wildcard, and to be recognised and to be believed in by people who have been at the top of the game is something quite special," Ebden said.

"But quite honestly, my mind set sort of clicks straight over to thinking, 'Alright, well I've been given a start, now I have to go on with it'."

Ebden will kick-start his 2011 season at the Brisbane International, the same tournament where he qualified for the main draw in 2010 and went on to defeat Austrian Jurgen Melzer, a player who went on to end the year at world No. 11.

He will use his improvement and experience from 2010 to set his sights on a bigger 2011 season.

"For me 2011 starts this week with Brisbane and to be honest, for me, the goal at these tournaments is to win them and that's what I've been working on with my coach," he said.

"That's where Australians want to see their players in these tournaments, they want to see them winning, they don't want to see them just in the first round.

"Come Australian Open time, with a wildcard I'll be fresh going in there, then you've got it all to play for and if I can put my best on the park, round after round, I'm confident I can match it and beat many of the guys who will be in the draw.

"It's just about getting out there and doing it.

"So I think I'm ready for it, I'm ready to get stuck in there and show my true potential."

Regular updates of all Ebden’s matches and progress will be posted to Facebook and Twitter. Ebden can also be followed via his personal Twitter account @mattebden to keep track of his latest thoughts.

For more on Ebden’s Australian Open wildcard, read his exclusive interview with PerthNow published earlier this morning.

Gold medallist Alana Boyd joins Sam Maxwell Sports Management

2010-12-15T10:21:00.000+08:00

Commonwealth Games Pole Vault gold medallist Alana Boyd has become the latest Australian track and field star to join the Sam Maxwell Sports Management stable.

The multiple National Champion, Olympic and World Championships representative secured the gold in Delhi with a leap of 4.40m, a height below her personal best of 4.56m.

Alana’s victory completed a unique piece of Australian athletics history with both her parents also having won Commonwealth Games gold medals. Her father and former coach Ray won the Pole Vault in 1982, and her mother Denise was victorious in the 200m in 1978.

It is the first time that two parents and a sibling have achieved this feat in track and field at major international level.

Originally from Queensland, Alana made the move to Perth in October of 2009 to train under Western Australian Institute of Sport Pole Vault coach Alex Parnov. While it was a difficult decision to move away from family and friends the move has appeared to thus far be a success.

“Alex has proven himself as arguably the best pole vault coach in the world,” Alana said of Parnov’s reputation. “He has taken the likes of Dmitri Markov, Kym Howe, Paul Burgess and now Steve Hooker to achieve amazing feats at world, Olympic and Commonwealth Games level.

“I wanted to be the best that I can be, and to make sure I get the most out of myself I needed to be with Alex and his coaching squad.”

Alana has now returned to full training since the Commonwealth Games. She will compete in the newly revamped Australian Athletics Season early next year where she will set her sights upon qualification for the 2011 World Championships in Daegu.

It is exciting to work with an athlete of Alana’s calibre and experience, and I look forward to more gold medal performances over the coming years!

Michael “the Emu” Freiberg to ride International Track Cycling Grand Prix this weekend

2010-11-19T14:10:00.000+08:00

Australian cyclist Michael Freiberg, the newest edition to the Sam Maxwell Sports Management stable will be looking to burn up the track tomorrow evening at the Chevron Australia, 2010 Perth International Track Cycling Grand Prix.

The event will see the Commonwealth Games gold and silver medallist alongside fellow Australian representatives in Cameron & Travis Meyer, Josie Tomic, Melissa Hoskins, Sarah Kent, Jack Bobridge, and Scott Sunderland. Joining the Australians are a host of world class international riders from the USA, Canada, The Netherlands, South Africa, Lithuania, China, the Philippines, as well as a full-strength German team that includes the Union Cyclist International No. 1 ranked sprinter, Tobias Wachter.

The Grand Prix will be the first time that Perth will be able to see Freiberg and the whole Australian Track Cycling team in action since its dominant performance at the Games.

A packed crowd is expected at the Speeddome with the few remaining tickets available for purchase through Ticketmaster.

Doors open at 4.30pm with qualifying starting at 5pm. Finals will begin at 7pm before an expected finishing time of 10.30pm. Additional information is available from VenuesWest.

On a lighter note, Freiberg will be pleased that tomorrow’s race is indoors and not in the hills of Mundaring where he was last week attacked by an Emu while training.

Originally posted on Twitter, the story appeared in The Sunday Times last week with Freiberg declaring that it was “the scariest thing that’s ever happened to me on a bike”.

“I was out training through Mundaring and I was climbing up through the weir and the emu ran out of the bushes behind me. It started running up the road behind me,” he said.

“I started sprinting and looking behind and it crossed the road and disappeared into the bushes. I’ve seen kangaroos before, but I didn’t even think there were emus out there”.

Given his height, size and speed, the name Michael “Emu” Freiberg seems to have stuck!

Gold medallist Michael Freiberg joins Sam Maxwell Sports Management

2010-11-08T15:45:00.000+08:00

Exciting Australian cyclist Michael Freiberg today became the latest Delhi Commonwealth Games medallist to join the Sam Maxwell Sports Management stable.

A powerfully built cyclist with a strong engine, Freiberg has enjoyed an impressive junior career that boasts numerous national championships alongside multiple international appearances.

In 2011 he will turn his attention to the American professional racing scene, where he will race as part of the Fly V Australia Pro Cycling Team, with the eventual goal being the Tour de France.

For more on his membership in this team, read the feature published in yesterday’s Sunday Times newspaper.

In Delhi, Freiberg was part of the Australian dominance on the cycling track, where he won a gold medal as a member of the team pursuit. He also won silver in the individual scratch race.

It is exciting to work with such a mature and driven promising young athlete and we look forward to all that lies ahead.

You can follow Freiberg on Twitter or keep up to date with his latest news via the Sam Maxwell Sports Management Facebook Page.

Commonwealth Games Day 9 Podcast

2010-10-12T15:58:00.014+08:00

Alex Malcolm and Sam Maxwell take a look at the results and news from Day 9 of the Delhi Commonwealth Games and look ahead to what will happen on Days 10 and 11.

Listen to the episode below, or download the MP3 file.

You can also subscribe to the Podcast here

MP3 File

Matt Ebden speaks with ABC Grandstand at the Commonwealth Games

2010-10-10T19:45:00.000+08:00

Australia's Matthew Ebden speaks with ABC Grandstand about his experience at the 2010 Commonwealth Games ahead of his Bronze Medal match against fellow Australian Peter Luczak.

Listen to the interview here, or download the MP3 file:

MP3 File

Commonwealth Games Day 4 Podcast

2010-10-08T15:41:00.000+08:00

Alex Malcolm and Sam Maxwell take a look at the results and news from Day 4 of the Delhi Commonwealth Games and look ahead to what will happen on Day 5.

Events include:

Sally Pearson's disqualification
Australia's track athletes including Ben Offereins, Aaron Rouge-Serret, Collis Birmingham, Ben St Lawrence
Alicia Coutts' gold medal haul
Australia's dominance of the gymnastics

Listen to the episode here, or download the MP3 file

MP3 File

You can also subscribe to the podcast here

Commonwealth Games Day 3 Podcast

2010-10-07T13:29:00.000+08:00

Alex Malcolm and Sam Maxwell take a look at the results from Day 3 of the Delhi Commonwealth Games and look ahead to what will happen on Day 4.

Listen to the episode here, or download the MP3 file

MP3 File

Commonwealth Games Day 2 Podcast

2010-10-06T05:07:00.001+08:00

Alex Malcolm and Sam Maxwell take a look at the results from Day 2 of the Delhi Commonwealth Games and preview what lies ahead in Day 3.

Special focus of today’s edition is on:

Australian Opening Ceremony debacle
Australian men’s 4 x 100m swimming gold medal
Australia’s first gold medal in the gymnastics
Tennis featuring Matt Ebden, Peter Luczak and Olivia Rogowska
Track and field action with Melissa Breen, Aaron Rouge-Serret, Collis Birmingham and Ben St Lawrence

Listen to the episode here, or download the MP3 file:

MP3 File

Commonwealth Games Day 1 Podcast

2010-10-04T22:57:00.000+08:00

Every day during the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi Alex Malcolm and Sam Maxwell will review the Australian results, highlight the news from the day and take a look at what lies ahead.

Today's edition looks at:

Opening Ceremony
Kylie Palmer as Australia's first gold medallist
Low crowds for Day 1
Delhi Belly
Weight problems at the boxing

Listen to the episode here, or download the MP3 file:

MP3 File

To subscribe to our Commonwealth Games podcast click here

Promote yourself through Facebook: Free Social Media Forum this Wednesday

2010-08-23T14:02:00.000+08:00

I remember a conversation with a colleague when I signed up for my personal Facebook account back in 2007. It went something along the lines of “Facebook will just be used to communicate with friends, post photos and stay in touch”.

Now, only three years later, Facebook has changed the way everyone communicates. And, by everyone, I mean – everyone! Even my Mum is on Facebook, and she is one of the most technologically-illiterate people I know (sorry Mum!) as her Mum was on email before she was!

My point though is that individuals, media personalities, companies and iconic brands use Facebook on a daily basis. While the purpose may be different, one can’t ignore the power of this social media network.

Especially for those wanting to profile, promote or “sell” themselves, a product, service or even a story, Facebook is an important tool.

In answering the question “why is this so”, I always respond with the following:

People check their Facebook page every day. Whereas they won’t check your individual website, drive past your shop or see your advertisement in the newspaper on a daily basis, you have the ability to be on their Facebook “news feed” and present yourself to your audience.

And that’s just with Facebook. I haven’t even begun to discuss Twitter, Blogging, YouTube, Four Square, LinkedIn etc ...

On the last Wednesday of every month, Gihan Perera facilitates a “social media forum” webinar. Gihan is at the forefront of creating internet strategies for business, and in my experience there is no better expert in Australia.

Gihan’s next forum is this Wednesday 25 August from 11.30am – 12.30pm AEST. This webinar is free and available to anyone to ask and/or answer questions about the way social media can be used in business. I was an active contributor last month and helped participants with questions about Facebook Fan Pages, the integration of your personal Facebook page with your “professional” one, and also various queries relating to Twitter.

The recording of last month’s webinar is below, which can also be downloaded in MP3 format. If you too had similar queries, I would definitely suggest listening to the recording.

MP3 File

If you’re thinking about how to set up a Facebook page, not sure what the best way to use Twitter is, or want to know more about Blogging, YouTube, or LinkedIn, I really recommend this free webinar. It will be the best hour you have spent learning about social media all month!

You can sign up for the webinar here, I'll be on the line again on Wednesday and look forward to answering some of your questions!

[Media Release] - Australian Junior Champion added to Elite Team at Perth City to Surf 12km

2010-08-20T11:45:00.000+08:00

Kevin Batt in action in the 2010 World Junior Cross Country Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland

Just a day after releasing the Elite Athlete team for the 2010 Perth City to Surf, Australian Junior Champion Kevin Batt becomes the team’s latest recruit to the 12km distance.

Batt, an Australian representative at both the 2010 World Junior Cross Country Championships and the 2010 World Junior Athletics Championships, is leading the charge of emerging distance runners in this country.

In March, Batt won the Australian under 20 years 5000m championship at Homebush Bay, where be beat home fellow Australian representatives Josh Tedesco and Ethan Heywood. All three athletes will line up on the 12km start line next week as members of the Sports Fever Racing Team.

A big factor in Batt's recent success has been the 19-year-old's move from Gosford to Illawarra, where he now lives and trains with Australian 1500m record holder and 2010 National Champion, Ryan Gregson and his family.

Under the eye of Athletics Australia junior coach of the year Ian Hatfield, Batt will this weekend run in the National Cross Country Championships in Brisbane, before making his first trip to Perth.

Click here for the full media release

[Media Release] - Elite Australians named in Perth City to Surf 12km Team

2010-08-19T07:30:00.001+08:00

Some of Australia’s best distance runners were this morning confirmed as participating for the same Elite Athlete Team as part of the 2010 Perth City to Surf.

Sponsored by Sports Fever, the team is comprised of current Australian representatives, World Junior representatives and the best distance runners Western Australia has to offer.

This is the first time a team of this size and quality has been comprised for the Perth event.

The team will be captained by Australia’s number one marathon runner, Lisa Weightman. Weightman is coming off a successful 2010 that has seen her win her first international marathon in Nagano, Japan, and also break the coveted Gold Coast Half Marathon record.

Joining the 2008 Beijing Olympian on the start line of the 12km event will be her husband and training partner, Lachlan McArthur; Alan Cragie, who ran 6th in the 2010 Sydney City to Surf; WA marathon champion, Roberto Busi; as well as Australian World Junior Cross Country representatives Ethan Heywood and Josh Tedesco.

Click here for the full Media Release and the details of all 12km Athletes.

Join Australia's #1 Marathon Runner for Breakfast

2010-08-17T13:26:00.003+08:00

After battling 7 stress fractures through her twenties and being told that she wasn’t good enough to make it at the highest level, Lisa Weightman is proof that "impossible is nothing".

Lisa’s first marathon in 2008 was the equal-quickest debut marathon of any Australian in history.

Lisa has since gone on to represent Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the World Championships, the World Cross Country Championships, and won her first international marathon in Nagano, Japan, this year. All while working full time as a consultant at IBM in Melbourne.

Last month Lisa broke the coveted Gold Coast Half Marathon record, with a winning time of 69:00 minutes the fastest half marathon ever run by a female on Australian soil.

As reported in last week’s West Australian, Weightman is coming to Perth next week to run the Perth City to Surf 12km event as part of her lead-up to the Commonwealth Games Marathon in October. She will Captain an Elite Athlete team comprising of international athletes, Australian Representatives, Australian World Junior Representatives and the best distance runners in Western Australia.

Join Lisa and some of her team for breakfast on Friday 27 August to hear how she overcame her hurdles, how she balances training with a full time job at IBM Australia, and how Australia’s best distance runner approaches a race.

Where:
Miss Maud Restaurant
97 Murray Street, Perth

When:
Friday 27 August
7.15am – 8.45am
Both the venue and Lisa are available until 10am for those wanting to stay

Tickets:
$60 single / $55 group of 4-9 / $50 group of $10+
Available at www.sportsevents.eventbrite.com
All attendees receive a FREE $50 Sports Fever Shoe Voucher

Click here for the full invite.

Please direct all queries to Sam Maxwell Sports Management

Lisa Weightman to race Perth City to Surf

2010-08-12T23:59:00.002+08:00

Lisa Weightman training with husband Lachlan McArthur ahead of the Perth City to Surf

In a little over two weeks, Australia's best marathon runner, Lisa Weightman will compete in her first Perth to Surf. Weightman will use the 12km event as a lead-in to the Commonwealth Games in October.

Joining her on the start line as part of an Elite Athlete Team put together by Sam Maxwell Sports Management will be husband, Lachlan McArthur as well as some of the leading athletes in Australia. Watch this space for the announcement of the whole team!

Read Lisa's thoughts about her race in Perth here.

Matt Ebden: What's in my room

2010-08-03T17:02:00.000+08:00

Prior to his departure for the US Open Series, Australian Davis Cup squad member Matt Ebden caught up with Michael Washbourne to show off his ten "favourite things".

Click on the image below to read about his collection items from all his tournaments, his obsession for hats and his insight about how he nearly played golf professionally instead of tennis!

Ben Offereins to leave for Cologne

2010-07-26T07:00:00.001+08:00

Australian 400m Champion Ben Offereins will fly out of Perth later today for Cologne, Germany, where he will base himself until the Commonwealth Games in Delhi in September.

Prior to his departure, Offereins was interviewed by ABC Grandstand's Clint Wheeldon about the races he will run prior to the Games, his Commonwealth Games expectations, his rivals, as well as the topic of the 400m Australian record and a typical “working day” in the life of Ben Offereins.

Listen to the interview here

Andy Roddick & Serena Williams: It must be Twitter

2010-07-16T05:40:00.001+08:00

Star tennis players Andy Roddick and Serena Williams were interviewed on the ways that they each use Twitter.

Roddick and Williams are two of the most prolific "Tweeters" in tennis. Watch this amusing video below about their contrasting "Twitter styles".

Lisa Corrigan to be supported by Saucony

2010-07-12T06:00:00.001+08:00

Announced today, Lisa Corrigan will be supported by Saucony, and will wear their latest apparel and footwear range in both training and competitions.

This sponsorship with Saucony goes with the support Lisa receives from Ryders Eyewear.

“I’m really excited to be with Saucony. Their shoes are awesome and their gear is really comfortable. I’m looking forward to racing in my new Endorphin Spikes, hopefully they will help with some fast times!” Lisa said this morning.

The Australian mile record holder is currently racing in Europe and looking to post a qualifying time for the Commonwealth Games later in the year.

Lisa also take’s this opportunity to thank New Balance and Runners Tribe for the support that they gave her throughout 2009.

View all the latest Saucony products on their website.

Power of social media for athletes demonstrated by Shane Warne

2010-07-06T08:00:00.001+08:00

There was a bit of an uproar when it was reported that Shane Warne took to Twitter to vent about a recent flight on British Airways.

While only reported in media circles yesterday, Warne “Tweeted” on July 2.

I follow Warne on Twitter for the following reasons:

He Tweets about what he is doing
He gives insight into his life
He provides his opinion and viewpoint on a range of issues ranging from sport, to politics, to news events and beyond

Not for a minute am I suggesting that I agree with everything that he Tweets, but I am a genuine interested fan.

As are his current 116,700-odd followers.

The uproar he caused about British Airways made it into the mainstream media because of Shane Warne’s profile and his status.

The image of British Airways has suffered as a result whichever way you look at it.

And, it started via Twitter. Warne’s comments caused his followers to take action in some form.

This is an example of how Twitter has caused a negative reaction. Yet the same can be said of how obtaining an endorsement or positive comment for a brand, product or service can influence “followers” to view it in a different light. And take action accordingly.

Also a great way to profile one of an athlete’s sponsors is it not?

Using social media, sports stars and elite athletes can very quickly have their views not only heard, but also actioned on.

Weightman wins Gold Coast Half Marathon in new course record

2010-07-05T07:07:00.000+08:00

Commonwealth Games marathon nominee, Lisa Weightman, smashed the old course record by 38 seconds to successfully defend her title at the half marathon, run as part of the Gold Coast Marathon Running Festival.

In perfect conditions on the morning of Sunday 4 July, Weightman finished well ahead of the second placed Cassie Fien (71:45) and Jessica Trengrove (72:48) who came in third. Now the sixth placed Australian over the 21.1km distance, Weightman was surprised to have gone that quick.

“I was giving it a go to try and run a minute PB.

“I ran a 10km PB on the road halfway through. I was on the pace I wanted to be on and was lucky to have a nice pack of boys around.

“I tried not to look at my watch during the race and just go by the feel.

I was sprinting to the line at the end wanting to get every second and realised that I was well under it.”

Weightman’s Gold Coast win follows her victory in the same event in both 2007 and 2009 and comes just 11 weeks after winning the Nagano (Japan) marathon. While Nagano was just Lisa’s fourth marathon, her time of 2hr 28min 48sec currently ranks her fifth all-time in Australia.

Currently juggling her training and competition schedule with her full-time position as a Business Consultant at IMB, Lisa will now turn her attention to the Sydney City to Surf in late August before the Commonwealth Games marathon in October in New Delhi.

Lisa Weightman is proudly supported by Ascend Sports Protein and wears Adidas apparel and footwear. For information on sponsoring Lisa, or to have her speak about her athletics journey thus far, please contact Sam Maxwell Sports Management.

To keep up to date with Lisa’s training and racing program, read her personal blog or follow her on Twitter.

Lisa Weightman: Using Ascend Protein to Recover

2010-06-28T10:37:00.001+08:00

The recent tennis match at Wimbledon between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut that went to 70-68 in the fifth set took “marathon tennis” to a new and unseen level covering three days and in excess of 11 hours on court. Never again will this be repeated!

Whilst victorious against Mahut, Isner clearly struggled in his second round match. Clearly, his recovery was compromised!!

Australia’s leading marathon runner, Lisa Weightman, believes that recovery is one of the most important facets of her training and preparation for big races.

Looking ahead to this week’s half marathon on the Gold Coast before the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi later this year, Lisa discusses how she utilises Ascend Sports Protein to maximise her performance.

Q. How long have you used Ascend Products and how have they benefitted?

I have been using Ascend Recovery Formula since 2007, which coincidently is the last time I had a stress fracture (knock on wood), and just before I ran my first marathon and qualified for Beijing (April 2008).

When the product was being released I was asked to test it out for a while as a favour. I had tried protein supplements before and didn't feel they made a difference to my performance. However, when I started using Ascend Recovery I thought it made a huge difference to my training and recovery.

My sessions were better and I am able to cover more mileage than I ever have and still keep up the 'quality' in my sessions.

Lucky for me they were keen to establish a sponsorship arrangement once I was impressed with the product and we have grown together.

Like all protein drinks, the taste is not as great as you'd hope but Lachlan worked out that if you mix the powder first in a little hot of water, then add ice and more water and mix it up it tastes so much better icy cold. The hot water helps to dissolve the powder.

Q. How often do you take Ascend Recovery?

I take 3/4 of a scoop (because I am little/lightweight) 3 times per week.

Always after track, Saturday's session and Sunday's long run. I also take it for a few days after my marathon to assist in recovery.

Q. What other products have you tried?

I love the peppermint recovery bars. They are great to take on trips, particularly long flights and places where you are sceptical about what food will be on offer. These bars give you an extra boost of protein at these times and taste like a chocolate bar/after dinner mint!

Advantage YouTube: Using videos in the sports industry

2010-06-21T08:00:00.000+08:00

I was reading a blog last week from Gihan Perera about the power of YouTube . In it, he discusses how YouTube is the world’s second largest search engine.

As a great method of self promotion, on this basis how can athletes, sponsors, managers, or event promoters, not use YouTube to their advantage?

Here are a couple of YouTube videos I have discovered over the past few weeks where the various authors have used video technology as an effective advertising and promotional tool.

Nike Football

Nike took advantage of the hype surrounding the World Cup and uploaded this great video forecasting possible “future” situations at the tournament. Already this has had in excess of 15 million views and has received much publicised attention in other forms of media as well.

Jelena Dokic

Jelena Dokic used YouTube to launch her new website and provide an insight for her followers about her goals for the rest of 2010. By embedding the video into her website, it gives her website a “personal flavour” and acts as another advertising tool for her site.

Melissa Breen

Matt Beckenham , the coach of Melissa Breen , Australia’s fastest woman over 100m, recently uploaded a video of a 100m time trial by his star athlete. On face value one might ask – why show footage of this trial given it doesn’t “mean” anything. It was hand-timed, against no one else and clearly a far-cry from what she will experience at the Commonwealth Games later this year. What it does do however, is give an insight into Melissa’s training and presents her to the “public” in a manner that shows her career and development as a “process”, and not just the end product with races, competitions and the like. It allows aspiring athletes an insight into her training and gives her exposure and profile at a stage in the athletics season where she would receive very little from the mainstream media.

Fitzy’s 5

Fitzy’s 5 is a new fun run in Adelaide, with the inaugural event to be held on 1 August this year. Athletics South Australia created this “fly by” video using Google Earth to demonstrate where the course would be run around the inner city. They then added a graph to show the inclines/declines along the route and advertised their website and encourage people to enter online. A very clever (and free!) promotional tool, that also currently features on the home page of Runners Tribe.

Nike uses Facebook to reveal Wimbledon outfits

2010-06-20T23:11:00.002+08:00

Nike took to Facebook over the weekend to reveal what their star players will be wearing at Wimbledon this year.

The outfits of Federer, Nadal and Sharapova, among others, were displayed in separate Men's and Women's galleries on the social networking site.

While the photos were also placed on their niketennis.com website, how many people would have visited this site directly and found the information?

I can guarantee that it is nowhere near the number who would have been notified via their Facebook accounts.

After all, that's how I found it.

Email: Read what you write

2010-06-15T09:00:00.003+08:00

Email and text messages are used increasingly more as a method of communication. That doesn’t mean you have to be any less careful about what you write, particularly when you are taking into consideration who you are writing to.

For a coaching position I recently advertised, I had shortlisted the candidates to 4. I received the exact email below over the weekend from one of the individuals.

Howdy Sam

I realy hope that u will need me for the week 21 of June I really want to get back to coachin.

Have a greta week and let me know thru email if u need me for 21st and how many shits

From XXXXXX

Clearly this candidate had taken very little care in what they wrote and obviously did not spare a few seconds to quickly proof read the message.

To me, this individual just comes across as sloppy. Remember this is from someone who is applying for a position – they needed to impress me and distinguish themselves from the other candidates.

While they definitely did “distinguish” themselves, it was not in the way I was hoping for.

While I do applaud them for making contact and following up, they did themselves no favours by not taking 30 seconds to read what they had written before pressing “send”.

If you want to impress, and you are using written text as a means of this communication, please take the extra time to make sure it is what it should say.

I can guarantee that you will be better off in the long run.

Unfortunately, my shortlist is now down to 3.

Lisa Corrigan Blog: Winning Again and Enjoying the Journey

2010-06-14T08:00:00.013+08:00

Recent Leonora Golden Gift Champion and National Record Holder, Lisa Corrigan, writes for SamMaxwell.info about her frustrating domestic season, and how she is looking ahead to the Commonwealth Games later in 2010

I began my Australian domestic season feeling confident after a win in the Noosa 5km for the first time, and was really looking forward to running well on the track......or not!

Around Christmas time I found out I had a bad bacteria in my stomach. It was something called “helicobactor pylori”, which I have preciously had three times. They say you can get it in China ... from animals! They don’t know too much about it, but I was told that usually if you get rid of it the first time it’s unlikely to come back. Not in my case!
I spent the majority of the season on antibiotics to fight off the helicobactor and a few chest infections, sinus infections and throat infections which was definitely frustrating.

My first race was the Sydney Track Classic where I finished 3rd in not the fastest ever time, however I was just so happy to be back out racing. I followed that up with Melbourne the week later, which was better and once again very enjoyable.

After Melbourne I felt good leading into a meet in Christchurch, but the day before the meet started I felt a few cold symptoms coming on and once again was not overly happy with my result.

Courtesy of Runners Tribe, watch Lisa's post-race interview from Melbourne.

I was feeling a little lost and couldn’t work out why I was always getting sick and why I wasn’t getting any better. I was doing full time university studies through the season so had a lot on my plate. However I was still getting all my training done, but the results just weren’t coming.

The weekend before Nationals, I did one of my best track sessions all year. I was pretty pumped for Perth.

That was until 5 days before when I woke up with a really sore throat and feeling terrible yet again. Come race day I could barely get out of bed that morning. I was still hopeful that perhaps I could run and somehow get a top 3 placing. But I had to finally accept the fact in the afternoon that I wasn’t going to be racing at Nationals.

It was a long way to go over to Perth to just be a spectator. Lucky for me, my sister had recently moved to Perth, so it was great to see her again. Perth is also the same place where my new manager, Sam Maxwell, is based, and I got to properly meet him for the first time. Sam was great. He made me feel like an athlete again and made me realise that it was just one race, and there was plenty more out there!

I left feeling better about things.

I had to complete my 10 week teaching Internship which started on the 31st of March and ended on the 4th of June. It was a long and tiring 10 weeks. Surrounded by secondary students all day and constantly having to be talking, yelling, marking ... the list goes on. The experience was great and the school I was teaching at was fantastic.

The hardest thing was teaching full time and trying to fit in my training. I found myself getting very run down and stressed. I had to change something. With strict instructions from my coach, Richard Telford, I began running once a day. At first I didn’t like it as I felt I wasn’t doing enough training, but as the weeks passed I don’t think I could have done it any other way.

Finally my Internship was finished and that night I flew to Perth to race in Leonora on Saturday. I have never enjoyed a plane trip as much as I did that night. No kids around. No papers to mark. No school work to do! I felt so relieved and excited and was really looking forward to racing in Leonora.

I was a little nervous about the race. I thought perhaps I was a little under done... had I done enough training? Had I gotten enough rest? Had I eaten well enough? The usual things that go through your head when you race. But, in the end I just wanted to run. It had been a long time since I raced and I was excited.

A week before, Sam managed to get me a sponsorship with Ryders Eyewear! I was stoked as I didn’t expect it after the season I had. It felt good to have a sponsor again and to know that someone still had faith in my running. I have always run in sunglasses, so to have Ryders on board is such a privilege and one that I am very grateful for.

Watch Lisa's heat from Leonora

I lined up in the final of the Leonora Mile, a little nervous, but so glad to be racing. It was unusually cold for Leonora but the crowd was still out supporting us and I had such a great time.

To win my third Leonora mile was an amazing feeling. I can’t say I was the most confident I had ever been going into the race; Bridey Delayney had out-kicked me in just about every race this season and Erica Sigmont was looking as fit as a fiddle! In the end I was really determined and it all worked out well.

View Lisa's victory in Leonora

I am now looking forward to heading to Europe and trying to run the Commonwealth Games Qualifier. I want to get back into PB shape and start moving up in the world rankings.

Now my teaching Internship is over, I can be an athlete again and do everything right.

My short term goals are to make the Commonwealth Games team and run a personal best for the 1500m. However, long term, my ultimate goal is to make the final of the London 2012 Olympics and run sub 4minutes for the 1500m.

With the help and backing from Sam, Ryder’s Eyewear, my coach, and my family and friends, I believe it is possible and I’m looking forward to every step of the journey!

Watch Lisa's post-race interview

Video Catch Ups With Australia's Elite at Leonora

2010-06-13T09:56:00.001+08:00

I was lucky enough to spend the Labour Day Long Weekend last week at Leonora for the annual Golden Gift.

While it was great that three of my clients in Lisa Corrigan, Ben Offereins and Jody Henry came away with victories in their respective events, I also took the opportunity to catch up with some of the best middle distance runners in Australia at the same time.

For Runners Tribe, I spoke with Marc See, Jeremy Roff, James Nipperess, Todd Wakefield, Brett Robinson and Bridey Delaney about the careers thus far, their goals for the future and also why they enjoy racing in a country town over 800km north-east of Perth.

Jeremy Roff & James Nipperess

Both athletes hail from Ken Green’s elite coaching stable in NSW
Roff is the 7th fastest Australian 1500m runner of all time and will represent Australia in New Dehli later in 2010 at his second Commonwealth Games
Nipperess is the current NSW State 1500m Champion and at only 20 years of age is an athlete to watch in the years ahead

Todd Wakefield

Australian Under 20 1500m Champion
Will represent Australia later in 2010 at the World Junior Athletics Championships

Marc See

2010 WA State Champion – 800m & 1500m
Possibly WA’s most exciting middle distance runner since Herb Elliot

Brett Robinson

Will represent Australia later in 2010 at the World Junior Athletics Championships

Bridey Delaney

Another 1500m athlete from Ken Green’s stable
2nd at Australian Championships over 1500m
Former World Junior Athletics Championship Representative

Leonora: Corrigan, Offereins and Henry Return as Winners

2010-06-08T14:20:00.004+08:00

The town of Leonora in the Goldfields region of Western Australia has received a significant amount of media attention in the last few days, with the arrival of asylum-seekers who have transferred to the small town from Christmas Island.

Over the weekend though, the roads of Leonora saw Sam Maxwell Sports Management athletes Lisa Corrigan, Ben Offereins and Jody Henry compete, and win, their respective events down the town’s main street.

Corrigan ran in the women’s mile and led the field from start to finish to claim her third Leonora title. Importantly, it was also her first win for the season over New South Wales rival Bridey Delaney, who placed a very close second in a sprint finish that excited the crowd.

Courtesy of Runners Tribe, Corrigan’s win in the mile can be viewed below.

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While Offereins and Henry easily won their 120m sprints, they were hard pressed to get past a few local juniors in an exhibition race at the end of the day!

The Leonora Golden Gift is a fantastic weekend of racing in a country town that really gets behind the athletes and the events. Lisa, Ben and Jody extend their gratitude to the sponsors of the event and to the “Leonora locals” who warmly accepted and supported the 2010 event.

All three are already looking forward to returning in 2011!

Ben Offereins to Join "Pink" Lisa Corrigan in Leonora

2010-06-04T16:16:00.003+08:00

As was reported recently, “the hot, dusty surrounds of the Goldfields don’t make for the most comfortable of running tracks”. However, over the next two days, the Shire of Leonora, located 200km North of Kalgoorlie, will play host to some of Australia’s best track athletes in the annual Golden Gift road race.

The Australian mile record holder, Lisa Corrigan, also a client of Sam Maxwell Sports Management will headline the women’s field along with young gun Bridey Delaney. Both will be out for a fast time prior to departing for a stint racing in Europe.

Corrigan is back for her fourth straight visit to Leonora, this time armed with her new “pink” sunglasses.

“I’ve just signed a deal with Ryders Eyewear who have been generous enough to support me. I received my new glasses the other day; they’re pink – my favourite colour – and I can’t wait to race in them!” Corrigan said.

On the men’s side of the ledger, two of Australia’s 1500m runners at the Commonwealth Games, Ryan Gregson and Jeremy Roff will vie off against a host of former National medallists and also current Australian Junior representatives.

Ben Offereins, the current #2 ranked 400m runner in 2010 and another Sam Maxwell Sports Management client, made a last minute decision to make the trip and will compete in the 120m.

Lisa Weightman - Australia’s Leading Marathon Runner Joins Sam Maxwell Sports Management

2010-05-31T08:00:00.001+08:00

It is with great pleasure and excitement that I can today announce that Lisa Weightman has joined the athletes’ stable at Sam Maxwell Sports Management.

Lisa is currently Australia's best marathon runner who shares the equal fastest Australian Female Marathon debut time of 2hr32m22s with Lisa Ondieki, run at the London marathon in 2008. Since then, Lisa has represented Australia at the Beijing Olympic Games and also the 2009 Berlin IAAF World Championships. In Berlin, Lisa ran the fastest time ever by an Australian at a World Championships.

Lisa is currently ranked 5th fastest of all time in Australia with 2hr28m, a time she ran earlier in 2010 when winning the Nagano Olympic Commemorative International Marathon in Japan, becoming the first Australian to do so.

Supported by Adidas and Ascend, Lisa is currently training for the Commonwealth Games marathon in New Delhi later this year.

Aside from running, Lisa is a successful IBM Business Consultant who received The Age Award for Business Excellence in 2000.

Lisa joins other track and field athletes at Sam Maxwell Sports Management including national 400m Champion, Ben Offereins, and Australian mile record holder, Lisa Corrigan.

Shanghai Diamond League Results – Offereins 5th in 400m

2010-05-24T13:25:00.001+08:00

Ben Offereins’ debut race in the Diamond League event in Shanghai last night saw the Australian National Champion run 5th in the 400m in a time of 46.08 sec

Beating Offereins home was former World and Olympic champion Jeremy Wariner (1st, 45.41 sec), 2008 Olympic bronze medallist David Neville (2nd, 45.70 sec), Michael Bingham (3rd, 45.84 sec) and Gary Kikaya (46.07 sec).

Speaking after the race Offereins said that he was “happy” with the performance which has come at the end of a long season.

“I’m obviously not ecstatic about it, but it’s been a long season and I have raced a lot.”

“I went out well and picked up two guys outside me. Being in lane seven I had to take it to them and it was the worst lactic I’ve felt all season. I’m looking forward to doing more work and improving on that result.”

With a seasons best of 44.86 sec that currently puts him at #2 in the world in 2010, Offereins will now return home to Perth for a training block ahead of the Commonwealth Games in October.

Other Australian results in Shanghai included:

Fabrice Lapierre (Long jump – 1st, 8.30m)

Steve Hooker (Pole vault – 6th, 5.50m)

Jeremy Roff (1500m – 11th, 3:39.42)

Eloise Wellings (5000m – 12th, 15:24.16)

Chris Noffke (Long jump – 6th, 7.74m)

For a full overview of all Australian performances, see the media release from Athletics Australia.

Ben Offereins - Australian 400m Champion to Run in Shanghai Diamond League

2010-05-22T16:46:00.001+08:00

Tomorrow night Ben Offereins will join the likes of Usain Bolt, Steve Hooker, Liu Xiang, Shelly Ann Fraser and Valerie Vili and compete in his first major international individual event in the Shanghai Diamond League.

A member of the Australian Bronze-medal winning 4x400m relay team at the World Championships in August last year, Offereins currently holds the second quickest time in the world over 400m thus far in 2010. With victories in Canberra, Sydney, Melbourne, the National Championships in Perth, as well as at the Shizuoka International track and field meet in Japan, he has had a great start to the year.

Standing in Offereins’ way at Shanghai will be former World and Olympic champion Jeremy Wariner, 2008 Olympic bronze medallist David Neville, Bahamian Andrae Williams and Congo’s veteran Gary Kikaya. French star Leslie Djhone, Great Britain’s Michael Bingham and Sweden’s Johan Wissman are also starters in the event.

This meet presents a great opportunity for Offereins’ to compete against those who have proven themselves to be the best in the world on a regular basis.

The 400m will be run at 8.25pm WST (10.25pm AEST) and is shown live on Eurosport, Foxtel on Channel 511 with coverage beginning from 8pm WST (10pm AEST).

Jelena Dokic Launches Own Website

2010-05-22T15:25:00.001+08:00

Australian tennis player, Jelena Dokic, became the latest Australian sports person to have her own personal webpage when jelenadokic.net was launched earlier this morning.

Her site features links to news articles on Jelena as well as photos, videos and biographical information.

Surprisingly, she doesn't have a Twitter account linked to the page, nor does she have a blog. As it is only early days for the site, her fans can only hope that these will be additions at a later date.

Sam Stosur, who this week rose to #7 in the world rankings, has a great blog on her samstosur.com website. However, like Dokic, she does not have a Twitter account.

Dokic's website now sits alongside fellow Australian tennis players Lleyton Hewitt, Peter Luczak, Bernard Tomic, Brydan Klein, Casey Dellacqua and obvioulsy Sam Stosur.

They're Ready to Run - Australian Athletics Championships 2010

2010-04-16T09:27:00.001+08:00

Starting today, the Go for 2 & 5 Australian Athletics Championships & Selection Trials will be held at the new WA Athletics Stadium in Perth.

Baring an exemption, all athletes wishing to compete at the Commonwealth Games later in 2010 in Delhi must compete at these Championships.

Track and field in Australia has never been stronger.

Much has been written about the likes of Steve Hooker, Dani Samuels, Mitchell Watt, and Fabrice Lapierre. And rightly so as these athletes are world class.

However, of particular interest will be the depth on display across a range of events that will see athletes in a battle for a Games birth.

Fast time, big jumps and long throws will be the story of the weekend as Australia’s best will go head to head.

The final timetable is available here, along with a start list of athletes.

I am pleased to announce that Sam Maxwell Sports Management will be sponsoring the Runners Tribe coverage of the Championships.

Finally, good luck to clients Ben Offereins and Lisa Corrigan. We hope to see you in Delhi!

Win A Signed Pair of Mizuno Race Spikes from Ben Offereins

2010-04-11T23:37:00.002+08:00

Ben Offereins is giving away a signed pair of his new Mizuno race spikes to one of his lucky Twitter followers. To be eligible to go into the draw, Ben’s fans need to:

1. Follow Ben (if you don’t already!) on Twitter via @benoffereins

2. Tweet “I want to WIN a signed pair of Ben Offereins’ Mizuno spikes from @benoffereins. If you want to also enter go to http://bit.ly/bfbmo1”

3. Entries close Thursday 22 April 2010 at 5pm Perth time. The winner will be announced via Twitter and also on the Sam Maxwell Sports Management Facebook Page

Remember, you must follow Ben to enter.

Good luck!!

Why Athletes Should be on Twitter and Facebook

2010-04-06T16:27:00.002+08:00

I read with interest a direction given by the sporting brand, Adidas, to the tennis players that they sponsor. At a gathering prior to the Australian Open, the players were told to “connect” more with fans using on-line social networking media.

More specifically, they were encouraged (in no uncertain terms!) to have a Facebook Fan Page, open a Twitter account and ... use them!!

In a digital age where there is always the demand for instant access to information, athletes may be reluctant to use such mediums on top of their already busy media schedules they are required to fulfil in the form of interviews, press conferences, photo shoots and so on.

I, however, take a different stance on this: utilising social networking mediums will reduce the time physically spent fulfilling media commitments, but (and this is an important but!), also increase their media and public profile.

Here’s why ...

1. It’s Easy
A Twitter feed or Facebook status update can now be done from a mobile phone just like sending a text message. For example, when an athlete may text their Mum to say “I have landed safely in Paris”, at the same time they can update their feed and/or status with something like “landed in Paris and looking forward to practice this afternoon”. (When the storms hit Perth the other week, Ben Offereins for example posted “loves golf ball size hail stones hitting my car while I'm driving to training. An unplanned rest day is inevitable.” on his @benoffereins Twitter page)

2. It’s Fun
At the same time as the athlete sends the feeds or update, they could also take a picture with their phone and upload it directly to their page. Fans love to see what their favourite players are up to. (Kim Clijsters for example posted a picture on her @clijsterskim Twitter page with one of her posts after she won a tournament recently)

3. The athlete is in control:
How many times in media circles are those in the public eye frustrated because what they said in an interview or press conference is truncated and reported in a different manner? With mediums like Facebook and Twitter, the athlete controls what information they give and the exact words they use, thereby eliminating confusion or misrepresentation. What more, you say what you want!

4. Sponsors and fans will take notice
The information you are posting is free and readily available online. It is content that fans want and enjoy. The more people that are “following” you, both as an athlete but also through what you post online, gives you access to a wider market. A wider market therefore makes you more marketable and valuable in the eyes of current and future sponsors and race and event promoters. Because it is so easy, it really is a no brainer!

If you are an athlete looking for a greater profile, in search of sponsors or want to control the way you are perceived in the public eye – use social media to your advantage.

If you don’t, your rival(s) most probably will. And, you don’t want them taking away potential sponsors or fans do you?

Lisa Corrigan Joins Sam Maxwell Sports Management

2010-04-01T12:17:00.001+08:00

It is with much excitement that I can announce that Lisa Corrigan has joined the Sam Maxwell Sports Management Team.

Lisa is the Australian record holder over a mile (4:22.66) and has represented Australia at the 2006 Commonwealth Games as well as the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Her full profile on the Athletics Australia website can be found here.

Stay tuned for more news and information on Lisa as she competes in the Commonwealth Games Trials in Perth from 16-18 April. Her full profile will also be uploaded to the Athletes section of my website in the coming days.

Top 10 Possessions of a World Class Athlete

2010-03-12T13:20:00.001+08:00

Ever wondered what world-class athletes keep in their home as their most “prized possessions”?

Current World #3 Duathlete, Raf Baugh, told The Sunday Times last week what he rates as his “top 10”. Among them, you’ll find a family photo, his Asics running shoes, a stone carving and his new “superfood”.

Raf’s full list can be found here.

For more information on Raf and the sport of duathlon, check out his website at www.rafaelbaugh.com

Keep an Eye Out for Junior Athletes

2010-03-11T20:37:00.000+08:00

I always get excited by National meets in any sport.

The reason? It showcases Australia’s best athletes all at the same time, competing for the same goal – to be the best in Australia.

What excites me just as much, if not more, is National Junior meets.

Why? Because there is an opportunity to see tomorrow’s talent on show.

In Sydney over the next few days some of the best track and field young athletes in Australia will be competing, not only for a chance to claim that elusive National title, but also to try to catch the eye of talent scouts, sponsors and Senior team selectors.

I would keep an eye on the timetable of events and also the start lists. You never know, you just might be witnessing a star of tomorrow ...

The Pride of Representing Your Country

2010-03-09T16:33:00.001+08:00

Many athletes often speak about the strong sense of pride they experience when representing their country. For these athletes, they place the experience of national duty ahead of individual success.

Matthew Ebden was recently selected in the Australian Davis Cup Squad as the reserve player for Australia’s tie against Chinese Taipei on the weekend.

At the traditional team dinner on Thursday night, the evening before the first rubber, Matt was asked to give a speech to the other squad members. Matt chose to read an acrostic poem that he had written, titled “Australian Davis Cup Team”.

Courtesy of Tennis Australia, I have reproduced Matt’s poem below.

Australian Davis Cup Team - By Matthew Ebden

A – Australian inside and out, we wear our hearts on our sleeves
U – Understanding the honour and privilege it is to be a part of such an esteemed team whose history dates back to 1905.
S – Sportsmanship is one of the highest values in our culture, humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
T – Try our best, we always will, and we will never give up
R – Rated as the second most successful team ever to compete in the Davis Cup, the green and gold has won the coveted title 28 times.
A – Adversity causes some men to break; and others to break records. This team is always aspiring to achieve greater things, with coaches, mentors and teammates by our side.
L – Laughter and a sense of humour is a must in order to survive in this team!
I – Inspirational to every Australian and beyond, from young kids and families who watch on television, to each and every Australian tennis player.
A – Age is no barrier, from young orange boys to much older coaches, captains and doctors, everybody gets along!
N – No fear, whether our backs are up against the wall somewhere in South America, the strength of the team always holds strong
D – Diligence: it is exemplified by a decisive work ethic and by committing full concentration to the job at hand.
A – Animal nicknames are compulsory in this team, if you don't have one don't worry because you won't be leaving without one.
V – Victory is always the goal, and belief and strength of character are qualities possessed by this team.
I – Iconic: symbolically representing Australia and everything we as a country stand for, ‘Advance Australia Fair!'.
S – Supporting each other as best we can and ensuring everything possible is done to benefit the team.
C – Committed and dedicated to the team, willing to represent their country at the click of a finger
U – the Uniform is green and gold, the Gold represents images of Australia's beaches, mineral wealth, grain harvests and Australian wool, while Green symbolises the forests and trees of the Australian landscape.
P – Patriotic and Proud to be Australian!

Now I figure that the letters in TEAM simply cannot be separated as that would contradict the essence of this team. There is no ‘I' in team, there is no selfishness, only selflessness. A team is about a group of people coming together to achieve a greater purpose together than what can be achieved by an individual. That is the Australian Davis Cup Team.

Who is Faster than Usain Bolt?

2010-03-01T22:45:00.001+08:00

Australian 400m Athlete Ben Offereins can proudly lay claim to something that only a handful of others in the world can – he is faster than Usain Bolt.

While probably not Bolt’s “pet event”, Offereins has a faster personal best, and is higher on the 2010 rankings in the 400m than the Jamaican world record holder.

When Ben found out of his current position as the quickest man in the world so far in 2010, he just smiled and said that “there is still a lot of the year to run”.

I think he still might show this photo to his grandchildren one day though ...

A larger image is available here.

Want to ask Ben a question about this ranking or anything else? Ask him via his Twitter page at www.twitter.com/benoffereins

Ben Offereins Wins Sydney Track Classic

2010-02-28T06:33:00.001+08:00

Ben Offereins last night won the Sydney Track Classic Men’s 400m in a new PB of 44.86 sec. In so doing, he became only the eighth Australian ever to dip under the magical 45 sec barrier, with his win also a meet ahead of Beijing Olympic semi-finalist Sean Wroe (45.40), Kenya’s World No.1 ranked 800m star David Rudisha (45.50) and USA’s Beijing Olympic 400m bronze medallist David Neville (45.90).

Video footage of Ben's race is shown below.

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Having just signed with clothing and shoe manufacturer Mizuno, this was the first time Ben had used their products. After his race, Ben commented on his Twitter page that he was “very happy with my run and a new pb of 44.86, maybe it was all that new Mizuno gear”!!

Watch a post-race interview with Ben below, courtesy of Runners Tribe.

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Runners Tribe: Ben Offereins - Oozing With Talent

2010-02-26T09:40:00.001+08:00

Ben Offereins was interviewed by Runners Tribe yesterday about his performances over the last few weeks and his recent signing with Mizuno.

The full article can be obtained here.

Ben flies out to Sydney today to compete in the Sydney Track Classic tomorrow and the Melbourne Track Classic on Thursday 4 March.

Follow Ben on Twitter here.

Australian Davis Cup Squad Announced

2010-02-23T21:11:00.002+08:00

The strong recent form of Australia’s Matthew Ebden was rewarded today with the announcement that Matt will be the 5th player in the Australian Davis Cup Squad to take on Chinese Taipei at Melbourne Park from March 5 to 7.

The Sam Maxwell Sports Management Client was named as a reserve to Peter Luczak, Bernard Tomic, Carsten Ball and doubles specialist Paul Hanley.

While there would be an obvious element of disappointment in missing the final team, Matt will no doubt learn from his experience within this team environment and strive to become the next Australian to represent his country.

The full article on the team selection can be found here.

Patrick Johnson Interview

2010-02-21T21:17:00.001+08:00

Patrick Johnson, the Australian record holder over 100m, ran a Commonwealth Games A-Qualifier of 10.18 sec at the Western Australian State Athletics Stadium on Friday night.

I caught up with him after his race for a chat, courtesy of Runners Tribe.

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Peter Luczak: An real competitor

2009-12-19T16:28:00.001+08:00

Peter Luczak is a real competitor - a player with a fantastic work ethic and a will to achieve. As he embarks on another Australian summer, this time back well inside the world's top 100, I caught up with him for a chat after a training session at Melbourne Park.

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Legendary Lleyton: Hewitt voted third best player of the decade

2009-12-17T19:32:00.001+08:00

Earlier this week Lleyton Hewitt was named the “ATP 3rd Best Player of the Decade”. Only including results from 2000-2009, Hewitt’s achievements over this period had him adjudged only behind Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

With a modest current ranking of 22 in the world, and dogged by injuries and illness over the past few seasons, too many forget how good this determined Australian was at the start of the decade. Winning his first career title in his backyard of Adelaide in 1998 as a then 16 year old (defeating none other than the one Andre Agassi mind you), Hewitt then went on to win his first Grand Slam title at the 2001 US Open and become the youngest ever year-end player to be crowned the ATP World Tour Champion in the same year.

In 2002 he won his first Wimbledon title and defended his ATP World Tour Champion crown. Along the way Hewitt was ranked the number one player in the world for 80 weeks until June of 2003, amassed 27 career singles titles, and has become Australia’s most successful and prolific Davis Cup player in history.

His gritty-ness and will for a fight has earned him a reputation as one of the toughest competitors in history on a tennis court. His come-from-behind victories are famous and his ability to get the most out of his talent is legendary.

Many other tennis greats over the years have stated “if there was one player you would want playing to save the world, I would have Lleyton on my team”. There can be no higher accolade to a player who has prided themselves on their mental toughness.

Lleyton Hewitt is a true champion. He is passionate about tennis, passionate about his country and loves to compete to win. Without doubt he deserves every bit of recognition in the dwindling stages of his career.

2009 has proven that while Hewitt may be a bit slower than he was ten years ago, his court craft and determination ensures he is still one of the most feared players on the ATP Tour.

In what may be his last Australian summer in 2010, he deserves another strong showing at the Australian Open.

What more, the Australian tennis public deserve another opportunity to properly appreciate one of the greatest-ever competitors.

Ranked the third best player of the decade is only just the start of the accolades that will flow Hewitt’s way over the coming years. And, he deserves and should be proud of every single one.

A third Grand Slam title at the 2010 Australian Open might just be something else that he becomes proud of.

After all, he definitely deserves it.

Olivia Rogowska - A bright Australian tennis talent

2009-12-16T19:38:00.001+08:00

Olivia Rogowska is one of Australia's brightest young tennis prospects.

In September this year she took a 4-2 lead in the third set against world number 1, Dinara Safina. With only nerves getting the better of her, she showed that day that she has the makings of a game that will see her succeed at the highest level.

Since coming back to Australia she has coped with an increasing media presence with her growing profile. Olivia was kind enough to catch up with me for a chat for a few minutes this afternoon.

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Launch of The Tennis Tribe - www.TheTennisTribe.com

2009-12-10T14:16:00.000+08:00

On Saturday 12 December, a new medium in Australian Tennis will be launched. From the creators of Runners Tribe, and containing more information, more news, more videos and more photos pertaining to all things tennis, The Tennis Tribe is the complete tennis enthusiasts website.

Check out the promotional video below and get ready to enjoy the world of tennis at an even deeper level - www.TheTennisTribe.com

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To stretch or not to stretch - that is the question!

2009-10-26T21:11:00.001+08:00

Many sports trainers and coaches emphasise the importance of stretching before exercise.

However, as this interesting article explains, maybe there should be another method!

Kim Clijsters – Definitely One Mother of a Performance

2009-09-07T22:29:00.001+08:00

On 15 August there was a two sentence “article” in the sports pages of an Australian newspaper. It read:

“The comeback of Belgian Kim Clijsters suffered a major setback last night when she lost to Dinara Safina. Clijsters was soundly beaten 6-2 7-5 in the quarterfinals of the WTA event in Cincinnati.”

To say I was surprised by the comments would be fair. Disappointed would probably be more accurate.

Yes, Clijsters lost. But it was in the quarter-finals of her first tournament back after 18 months out of the game having given birth to her first child.

Not to mention, Safina is the No. 1 player in the world.

No one was expecting miracles straight away.

What more, consider players she did beat prior to Safina:

Marion Bartoli.

Patty Schnyder.

Svetlana Kuznestova.

All three have been (or still are) top 10 players, there is a dual Grand Slam Champion, and a Grand Slam finalist.

One would think that if Clijsters wanted to make a full professional comeback, it might take a few months to find match fitness, rhythm and confidence. Although in her day, Clijsters was a fierce competitor, an excellent ball striker, and one of the best movers on the court, you would expect two years out of action to have an effect.

However, just to show that Cincinnati was no “fluke”, she backed it up in Toronto with a win over world No. 8 Victoria Azarenka.

I have to admit that I personally wrote Clijsters off for the US Open, even despite her previous results. In my opinion, there is a massive difference between the pressure of Grand Slam tennis versus “normal” tournament play.

Sets in practice can’t emulate the intensity of such matches. Experience is needed.

And, experience is what Clijsters has. Plenty of it.

A previous US Open Champion, runner up at the Australian and French Opens and a Wimbledon semi-finalist, Clijsters obviously knows how to compete under pressure in tight and crucial situations.

Again, I am embarrassed to admit – I still didn’t see her progressing far at the US Open, for the reason that she had been out of the game for too long. I saw her as a threat in Grand Slams from the start of next year onwards, but it would take time to make adjustments after such a long absence.

How wrong I was.

Having now reached the quarter-finals after beating Venus Williams in the fourth round is an amazing achievement. Regardless of her results in the tournament hereon in, this is a performance that should be applauded.

It’s not easy spending such a long time out of competition. Added that she didn’t train and had a baby during this period makes it all the more remarkable.

And, with the other seeds that have fallen so far during the Open, I am going completely against my earlier prediction for Women’s Champion.

I mean, who wouldn’t love to see “Mummy Clijsters” holding the US Open Trophy aloft ...

C’mon Please Don’t Forget About Lleyton Hewitt

2009-09-05T17:36:00.001+08:00

I heard someone say the other day “imagine how many Wimbledon titles Andy Roddick would have won if it weren’t for Roger Federer”.

True.

But ...

Imagine how many Grand Slams Lleyton Hewitt may have won if it wasn’t for Federer.

Hewitt is, and was, a much better player than people nowadays give him credit for.

What more, for a player with such an amazing record spanning over 13 years, he cops his fair share of unnecessary criticism.

Apparently he doesn’t possess a big-enough weapon.

He’s too arrogant.

And, he’s too old.

I whole-heartedly disagree with any such comments and will debate this with any Hewitt cynic.

Tonight (AEST) Hewitt plays Federer at the US Open for a spot in the last 16.

Realistically, I don’t expect Hewitt to win. Not many people do.

But, before the tenacious Australian is completely written off, glance an eye over his impressive career record. I think this is too often overlooked in light of recent results and the dominance of Federer.

(1) Injuries may have cursed the Australian in the last 18 months, but remember that Hewitt has been on the tour for the last 13 years.

(2) He won his first ATP title in Adelaide as a 15 year old in 1998. Anyone who beats a player such as Agassi at 15 (as Hewitt did), is going to go places.

(3) He has since amassed 514 career wins. Federer, Roddick and Carlos Moya are the only other active players to also do so.

(4) These wins have yielded 27 career titles, 2 Grand Slams, and 75 weeks as the number one player in the world. He was also the youngest ever year-end number one in 2001.

(5) Hewitt has always maintained that, despite is now (relative) low ranking, he considers himself to be one of the top 5 players in the world when fit – he has consistently reached the last 32 or better in most Grand Slams over the last 3-4 years when his ranking has been lower. Who would argue with his self belief?

(6) Instead of resting during important parts of the season, Hewitt commits without fail to Davis Cup and representing his country all year round. His success when playing for Australia is second to no other player. The same level of commitment can’t be said of the likes of Federer, Agassi and Sampras.

Yes, Hewitt is aggressive. And maybe sometimes brash.

Yes, Hewitt also speaks his mind.

But you can’t question his endeavour or commitment. His record indicates that he has definitely maximised his talent to full its potential.

And I haven’t even discussed other “Hewitt trademarks” such as his gritty determination, come-from-behind victories, or awesome court speed.

He has been one of the greatest players of the modern era and it is “unlucky” that he is playing in a period when the greatest of all time is also in his prime.

Personally, it would give me great satisfaction should Hewitt get up tonight. He deserves another strong showing in what has been a magnificent career.

So, c’mon for another Australian Grand Slam!!

Good Luck to the “Smiling Australian”

2009-08-25T21:46:00.000+08:00

One of the matches that I am eagerly anticipating this week isn’t a singles final between any of the top ranked players.

In fact, it doesn’t even involve a player who currently holds a world ranking.

At the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour event in New Haven this week, Australia’s Alicia Molik will make her comeback to the tour, playing doubles with Meghann Shaughnessy.

I was saddened by Molik’s sudden retirement at the end of 2008.

An Olympic bronze medallist and Australian Open quarter-finalist, with a career-high ranking of number 8 in the world, her career changed after illness in 2005.

Not only had had the tour lost a player with one of the best serves over the last 10 years, Australian sport had lost one of the most down to earth, genuine people.

I recall talking to an American client at the start of the year. He couldn’t recall Molik’s name but referred to her as “the smiling Australian with that massive kick serve”.

I had the pleasure of working with Alicia in February and March this year.

She impressed me with her genuine passion, love for the game and willingness to pass this onto others.

I know that the junior players she has worked with in Australia during her “retirement” have derived benefit from her advice and willingness to assist.

Seeing Alicia Molik back in the top echelon of women’s tennis would be a great achievement.

However, no matter where her comeback ends up, to have her competing again brings a smile to every tennis fan around the world.

We wish her all the best.

When Breaking a World Record is Classed as Cheating ...

2009-08-17T23:33:00.001+08:00

Rest assured I’ll be spending a lot of time over the next week or so in front of the TV watching the remaining days of the IAAF World Athletics Championships in Berlin.

Regardless of how many more world records Usain Bolt breaks, how many Kenyan’s and Ethiopian’s dominate the longer distance events, or how many times Sally McLellan screams “oh my god” in her post-race interview, one thing is for sure ...

The Athletics World Championships won’t be marred with the same controversy that the recent FINA World Swimming Championships experienced ...

The reason?

All athletes will be on a level playing field.

Look, I’m not naive enough to state that drugs in sport don’t exist. But, authorities are becoming tougher and more skilled. “Cheats” will find it harder to get away.

But, this isn’t a post about drugs in sport.

It is about FINA approving the use of the polyurethane bodysuits.

Although they have since been banned, their use in Rome ruined the history of swimming. And destroys the whole concept of sport and competition.

The suits are effectively “buoyancy vests”; designed to keep the swimmer on top of the water, giving them the advantage to use their “kick” to propel themself forward as opposed to using it to also stay afloat.

Those who use the suits are being assisted. The farcical number of world records broken in Rome confirms this.

This is unfair.

I am happy to go on the record and state that every swimming using a suit was cheating. However, they are not to blame.

If the International Tennis Federation (world tennis governing body) said that when I play against Roger Federer I was allowed to serve from inside the service line and have the ball bounce twice at my end of the court, of course I would accept their ruling.

I want to win don’t I? I’m not breaking any rules – I have been allowed to do this.

But, the question is – is it in the best interests of the sport?

Should I beat Federer with these rules, am I a better player then he is?

“That’s just ludicrous” I hear you say.

And, you’re right.

The essence of sport is about equal competition. Not only with contemporaries but also between eras.

Sure, advancements in technology, sports science, training methods and the overall level of professionalism of athletes today will mean that they can run and swim faster, jump higher and longer, throw further and hit harder than what athletes could say 50 years ago.

However, whether it be uniform, playing equipment or otherwise, where there is something that so dramatically changes the playing field, it becomes detrimental to the sport.

In the name of sport, in the name of equal competition and, with respect to the history and tradition of the sport, I hope that the records swum in the suits are disallowed.

Who Says You Can’t Play Tennis in the Rain??

2009-08-14T16:08:00.001+08:00

The last few days here in Perth the weather has been terrible. Wet. And very windy.

Unfortunately we couldn’t get on the court a number of times this week because they were simply too wet.

Let me put this to you ...

If your computer fails at work, you’ll still be required to give that presentation to the Board. Just minus your PowerPoint.

If one street is blocked due to road works, you’ll find another way to get to your friend’s house.

If the Pub you’re in closes at 12am, but the one next door is open until 3am – don’t try to tell me that you’re going home at 12am!!

My message is simple – there are alternatives in everything we do.

WHY CANCEL TENNIS BECAUSE OF THE WEATHER??

Here are my five tips on what you can do to improve your game when it’s raining.

1. Reflex volleys
Indoors, get into pairs, stand a few metres apart and focus on a “firm wrist” and contact in front of your eyes. This will help your overall ball control and general coordination. Then, on the court, no matter the conditions – volleying will be easy!

2. Ball toss
Did you know that the problem with most people’s serve is an inconsistent ball toss? Set a target on the ground (a racquet length away from your front foot is a good guide) and get the ball to land on the target. Get a feel also for the height of the toss – at a minimum, if you extend your racquet to the sky, the toss should go at least to the top of your racquet. You’ll be serving aces in no time!

3.Footwork
Skipping, “high knees” on the spot, and “side to side” jumping over a marker will all help keep you on your toes and avoid being flat-footed!

4. Abdominal work
Strength through your “core” not only prevents injury but will give you greater control and power off your ground strokes and serve. Try “bridges”, “crutches”, push-ups and sit-ups, and watch that six-pack develop!

5. Go for a run
I love running in the rain. But, make yours specific to the “stop-start” manner tennis is played in. Jog for 5 minutes, sprint for 30 seconds and repeat this process. As you get better, include hills in your training and sprint for longer! Pretty soon, you’ll be chasing down balls like Rafael Nadal!!

So, next time it’s raining outside, you can still participate in tennis-specific exercises inside to help take your game to the next level.

Want Better Results? Try Something Different

2009-08-13T11:15:00.001+08:00

A friend of mine had to give a presentation to a small team he was a part of.

Giving presentations was nothing new to him. His ideas were excellent and he always speaks well.

But, he wanted to challenge himself.

So, what did he do ...

For the first time in his career he used a PowerPoint presentation. He spent hours on it. And it was very good.

It strengthened his already effective presentation skills, making his whole idea and message stronger.

In short, if there are tools out there to assist you, wouldn’t it be silly not to take advantage of them??

The same applies to tennis ....

Why only hit a topspin backhand? Add variety and hit a slice on occasions.

Why stay back on the baseline and play safe all the time? Serve and volley and mix it up.

Why play “predictable doubles”? Get your partner to “cross” aka the Bryan brothers at least twice each service game. You do the same when he/she is serving.

Why hit down the middle of the court when you’re warming up? Hit cross court and practice ball direction and control.

Why do you tense up at 30-40 and often serve a double fault? Play a set in training where you can only have one serve.

Why always practice with the same partner? Give someone a call in the team above and hit with them to stretch yourself.

Why be content that you can’t seem to hit winners down the line? Get your coach to focus on taking the ball early with more shoulder rotation and you’ll feel more confident.

There are many avenues and opportunities in tennis, as in business, as in life, to practice and improve.

You may think you are competent in one area. But next time, try something different, extend yourself and I guarantee that you will see an increase in performance.

How determination breeds success – Jennifer Capriati

2009-08-12T11:23:00.001+08:00

Over dinner last night I was watching Channel 9’s 20 to 1. The theme was “Amazing Comebacks”. Number 19 on that list was Jennifer Capriati.

Who could forget Capriati’s entrance on to the world tennis stage at the age of just 14. Her well-documented personal troubles. And, of course, her later Grand Slam success at the Australian Open (2001 & 2002) and French Open (2001).

As sports fans, these are the stories we love. Coming back from adversity and achieving success when everything looks like falling in a heap.

Personally, in whatever field, I am motivated by people who have enthusiasm and are focused in what they want to achieve and the process they will take to avoid this continued failure.

Too many times we focus on the end product without considering the process along the way and the various hurdles and obstacles that had to be conquered in order to succeed.

Capriati would not have woken up one morning in the midst of her “down period” and had success overnight.

Those who battle through these “harder times” because of their passion, vision and determination are inspiring.

Make the same adjustments in your life, whether this be sporting or otherwise.

If you’re struggling to hit that topspin, short-angled cross court forehand (aka Nadal), have your coach work on it with you. Practice it over and over again with your mates and have the confidence to then try it in a match.

If you are after a promotion at work, enquire with a supervisor about your performance. What areas do you need to improve upon? Analyse how you can make the changes to improve and regularly monitor your progress. I bet you’ll get the promotion.

Neil Mattingley, my tennis coach when I was a junior instilled in me the mantra “perfect practice makes perfect”. No one is born perfect. Things will not always go our way. But if we are determined, persist and willing to learn, success will come.

And, like Capriati, success in the face of adversity or after a setback, is always more satisfying.

2009 Wimbledon Preview

2009-06-21T23:52:00.001+08:00

Undoubtedly the last 24 hours has changed the perception of the upcoming 2009 Wimbledon Championships for many tennis enthusiasts. Losing a player of the class and calibre of Rafael Nadal, not to mention him being the defending champion, is sure to dampen the mood of anyone (with the possible exception of Roger Federer) watching the tournament.

I have read many articles in the last few days relating to Federer. What sort of effect will winning the French Open have on his mentality for the rest of his career? Is he now the greatest player ever? Will he break Sampras’ Grand Slam record at Wimbledon? These are obviously just to name a few.

As great and as dominant as Federer is, in my opinion, too much focus has been put into fast forwarding to the last match of the tournament without thinking about the challengers along the way.

With the withdrawal of Nadal, the opportunities for other players to make their mark on Wimbledon 2009 obviously increase. Here are my thoughts on how the men’s draw is shaping up.

The Next Generation—Djokovic and Murray

Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are the two players that have long been touted as the “next big challengers” for Grand Slam success behind Nadal and Federer. Now is the time for these two to stand up and deliver.

At best Djokovic would describe his year thus far as mediocre. He is a previous Wimbledon semifinalist and lost a tough second round meeting last year with an in-form Marat Safin, an eventual semifinalist. He obviously knows how to play on grass.

Djokovic is an excellent mover, strikes the ball cleanly and unlike most modern day players has the ability to mix up his play, all of which will be of benefit on the courts at the All England Club.

However, his greatest weakness is his mental aptitude. Too many times in big matches he has forfeited or played poorly when under pressure.

Whether this is a result of public expectation or is self-inflicted remains to be seen. To be a consistent Grand Slam performer, Djokovic needs to become stronger in big matches. Wimbledon will test his strength, as of the top seeds, Djokovic has the toughest draw.

A possible third round meeting with either the dangerous Mardy Fish or compatriot Janko Tipsarevic looks difficult. Fish’s massive serve and volley game on its day can blow anyone off the court. Playing a fellow countryman in Tipsarevic is never easy, and would again test Djokovic’s mental state.

The other two players to watch in Djokovic’s quarter are the improving Marin Cilic from Croatia along with Tommy Haas.

Like Fish, Cilic has a game built for grass. His fourth round appearance at Wimbledon last year as well as at the two previous Grand Slams this year is also evidence of his consistency.

Winning his first ATP World Tour title in more than two years last week in Halle, Haas is brimming with confidence. While his two set to love lead against Federer at the French Open should have seen Federer out of the tournament, he will be looking to progress well into the second week at Wimbledon.

At his best, Djokovic is a far superior all-round player to any of these challengers. To be considered capable of “stepping up” in the world rankings and stamping his authority on the game, anything less than a semi-final meeting (probably against Federer) would be considered a failure.

No doubt he will be challenged, but he needs to learn to fight. Unlike the greats in the past decade, very few times have we seen Djokovic come from behind in big matches. He needs to learn that things will not always go his way, but if he can develop patience and an added self belief, a second Grand Slam title shouldn’t be too far away.

Murray will have the weight of public expectation on his shoulders to again perform. Victory at Queens recently only adds to this pressure and expectation. What is impressive about Murray is his willingness and hunger to succeed.

Outside Federer and Nadal, he has clearly been the form player of 2009. He thrives playing big matches and will no doubt look to use the “home” crowd to his advantage. What more, Murray has a near perfect draw.

I say “near perfect” because lurking as a potential quarterfinal match up is Fernando Gonzalez, the player with the most feared forehand in tennis and the one who destroyed Murray in the same round at the French Open.

While the quicker grass court is not Gonzalez’s best surface, Murray will still be hoping someone else will take out the Chilean before they are due to meet. Regardless, Murray’s recent clear winning record over Federer is reason to believe that there is no one on the tour he fears and success for the “home town” hero is not out of the question.

Lucky Lleyton

Without doubt Lleyton Hewitt is the luckiest man in the draw. Previously drawn to play Nadal in the second round, Juan Martin Del Potro, Nadal’s replacement, now looms as a second round opponent for the Australian as a result of Nadal’s exit.

Del Potro has never progressed beyond the second round at Wimbledon and his developing game isn’t yet suited to grass. Despite Hewitt’s low ranking, it is easy to forget how good he was (and still is) on grass. If he can get past Del Potro, thereby taking Nadal’s path through the draw, there is no one in his quarter (other than Andy Roddick) that he should fear on grass.

The likes of Nikolay Davydenko and David Ferrer are hardly going to have the games big enough to blow the Australian off the court, with Hewitt’s tenacity and persistence likely to win over. He will be tested in a likely quarter final encounter with Roddick.

Roddick is one of the best performed and most consistent players on grass in the last 5-6 years, and armed with his big first serve, the American will again be tough to beat at Wimbledon. These two have always had close encounters, and at the end of the day if Roddick serves well the match will most likely be decided by a couple of points here an there.

If his serve is even slightly off, expect Hewitt’s superior ground strokes and nouse to prevail. Hewitt’s experience as the only other Wimbledon Champion outside Federer also counts for a lot. He has said all along that he only needs a bit of luck in the draw and he still considers himself capable of challenging for a Grand Slam title.

For this reason, don’t be surprised to see him progress well into the final week.

The Favourite—Federer

Someone must be smiling fondly upon Federer. Robin Soderling knocks out Nadal at the French and now his nemesis won’t be playing at Wimbledon due to injury.

He has stated since winning the French Open that all pressure is now off him for the rest of his career and that he can “now play freely”. That is scary for his opponents if that is the case, but at the same time pressure works two fold.

On the one hand it keeps players accountable, driven to perform and delivers strong results, while conversely pressure can be detrimental and see players capitulate and crack under expectation. I am of the opinion that Nadal’s hold over Federer is more a result of the Spaniard’s superiority and class than any error or fault on Federer’s part. There are only two factors that may get in Federer’s way at Wimbledon this year—complacency and power.

Given the high he experienced after the French Open it would be only natural to have a letdown. Federer wants to be the greatest play of all time and he knows that he needs to pass Sampras’ Grand Slam record to confirm this.

Common sense says his time is running out given his age and performances of the next generation of stars. Complacency is not a trait known to Federer, but if there was ever a time for it to affect him, this would be the tournament. The other element, power, comes in the form of Soderling, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Fernando Verdasco, all with big enough games and weapons to blow Federer (and all other players for that matter) off the court on their day and are hiding in Federer’s part of the draw.

The toughest part is doing it over five sets. We saw Tomas Berdych and Haas take two set leads at the Australian and French Opens earlier this year but not go on with it. That’s why Federer is so good; the difference between his best and his worst is so small. Some players might be able to stay with him, or better him, over the course of a couple sets, but struggle to maintain the pressure over five.

Nevertheless, the three players mentioned above all lurk in Federer’s quarter and will provide tough opposition.

Conclusion

To pick a winner this early in the tournament is not only difficult but sacrificial. Due to the closeness of the tournament to the French Open, as well as the fact it is grass, Wimbledon always presents chokes, upsets and amazing performances.

I do believe that this year’s tournament will be a mix of youth and experience. The likes of Murray and Djokovic need to be aggressive and hungry in the absence of Nadal and stake their claim to challenge the strong performers of the past in Federer, Hewitt and Roddick. No doubt the tournament will also throw up new names and other unexpected results.

Let the competition at the All England Club begin!