marie

“ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS”

Communication is the process of sending and receiving messages through verbal or nonverbal means including speech or oral communication, written communication and signs. Communication thus helps understand people better removing misunderstanding and creating clarity of thoughts and expression. But right now, I will be focusing on using nonverbal communication in our daily lives.

Nonverbal communication, or so-called body language, is a vital form of communication which is a natural, unconscious language which broadcasts our feelings and intentions at any given moment, and clues us into the feelings and intentions of those around us. According to Kaminsky, nonverbal communication is one of the most powerful and widely used forms of communication among humans. At times, we are not even consciously aware that we are using them but they allow us to reinforce the things we say and convey emotions without speaking. Hunched shoulders, raised eyebrows, nail biting, and eye contact are all forms of nonverbal communication because they do not involve speaking. It is possible to know someone’s private feelings simply by looking at that person’s facial expression. For instance if a peer is not in a good mood, one will simply need to look for the nonverbal communication that that person portrays.

There are many things about the face that communicate our feelings. Pursed lips show distaste or disapproval. When a person bites their lips it is most likely because they are worried or stressed. Eyes can also give away our feelings. Direct eye contact portrays interest, but when it is prolonged it can seem threatening. However, when a person does not make eye contact, or breaks it often, this means they are uncomfortable or distracted. Furthermore, when pupils become dilated it is believed that this symbolizes a love for someone, or a want.

People judge me by my appearance and attitude at a glance, rather than what I am speaking, which I consider as a part of nonverbal communication. For one to mask feelings or spontaneous reaction to information, the attention must be paid to the nonverbal behavior. It might be easy for one to control his/her voice or words yet still that person’s body language, facial expression as well as movement can expose his/her real thoughts and feelings.

Individual Women's Rhythmic Gymnastics | Rio 2016

Court Dimensions

An Olympic floor exercise mat is required to be 12 meters by 12 meters, which equals 39.37 feet by 39.37 feet. The standard distance from one corner to the opposite corner is 1,697 cm or 55.68 feet.

Equipment

Rope

Ropes are cut to fit an athlete personally. Always have your coach measure and cut your athlete’s rope to the right length. Once cut, the ends of the rope will be burned to keep from fraying. The ends are then tied in a single knot. Electrical tape is often placed at the ends or in the middle to help visibility. As an athlete uses a rope, the ends fray and knots can come undone. You can re-burn the ends and sew knots to help. Keeping your rope in a zip lock bag or container is a great way to protect it from unexpected spills.

Hoop

Hoops sizes are determined by level and by height. Hoops must be taped to the correct weight) to be used in training and competition. With use, tape starts to peel and needs to be replaced. Hoops can also be bent if athletes are not careful. We recommend that athletes leave their hoops at the gym on their assigned hook. Whenever transporting hoops, be careful that it is not being bent or melted (yes, hot cars, metal or lights easy melt hoops. Also use a hoop cover for transportation.

Ball

New balls come uniflated. They can also lose air and need to be pumped up from time to time. Please ask your coach before pumping up or letting air out of your ball. If done improperly your ball can “die” (not holdair anymore). If you cannot squish your fingers into your ball it is too inflated. Only if your ball does not bounce (or if it’s too small for the size requirement) is it too deflated. Balls get scratches from hitting walls, ceilings and floors. They can be washed gently. The rule to use is to not to use anything on your ball that you would not use on your face. *note: balls do NOT need to be deflated when taken on a plane. The more you deflate and inflate your ball the sooner it will die as the pumps are the most vulnerable part to breaking.

Clubs

Clubs can be used taped or not taped. Usually taping them makes the balance and grip more user friendly. They do not take much maintenance but they can break.

Ribbon

Ribbons are different lengths for different age levels. Seniors are 6+ meters and Juniors are 5+ meters. Always let your coach cut your ribbon to length. Ribbons are to be cut a little long. We put clear nail polish or fray-check on the end to stop fraying. Over time fraying will occur and the ribbon will lose length. Ribbons can catch on things very easily and tear. Torn ribbons are not useable and, unless the tear is minuscule, unfixable. When your ribbon gets wrinkly you should iron it. Ribbonsshould be ironed every 10-14 days and always before a competition. Use a low-med setting and, if you feel safer, put a thin tea towel between the ribbon and the iron for extra protection.

Ribbon sticks

Do not require much maintenance but can snap and break quite easily which is why we recommend a stick case. Swivels (the part that attaches the ribbon to the stick) get worn out and break and have to be replaced often. If a swivel is continually coming open while being used it should be taped shut or replaced.

Toe shoes/toe socks

Every athlete needs to have appropriate competition/performance footwear. Your coach will decide if toe shoes ortoe socks are best for you. You should always have two good pair (noholes, not too dirty looking). Placing your name/initials inside, is s great way to relocate them if you accidentally leave them at the gym/on the floor/ at an event.

Basic Skills

The gymnasts perform mills, rotations, circles, throws, and many asymmetric movements in combination with various fundamental body movements. Club handling requires rhythmic work, psychomotor coordination, and clockwork precision. Clubs are especially popular with ambidextrous gymnasts.

Rules of the Game

The gymnast must keep the ribbon in motion throughout the entire routine. All leaps and jumps must be of a good height, have a clear shape and good amplitude. All leaps with the back arched must have the head in contact with the leg. All balances must be performed on the toes or the knee.

Officiating Officials

Meet Referee

A person to whom reference is made, esp for an opinion, information, or a decision. the umpire or judge in any of various sports, esp football and boxing, responsible for ensuring fair play according to the rules. a person who is willing to testify to the character or capabilities of someone.

Head Judge

Ensure that competitions are run safely and fairly.

Timers

Keeps track of the time elapsed.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Kudryavtseva was nearly unbeatable over the last four years, making history by winning her first all-around title at age 15 at the 2013 World Championships, then claiming the title again at the next two Worlds. In 2014 and 2015, it was Mamun--Kudryavtseva's close friend and training partner--who won silver. Kudryavtseva looked primed for another victory at the Rio Olympics, but in the last moments of her clubs routine she dropped the apparatus. Mamun was nearly perfect in her own routines, allowing her to win the Olympic gold. While Zeng's qualifications score put her in 11th place, just a few tenths of a point away from advancing to the 10-woman final, her clean performances were reason enough to celebrate. She matched the previous record for highest Olympic finish by a U.S. rhythmic gymnast, set by Valerie Zimring at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. With their precise and complex routines, the five women of Russia's rhythmic gymnastics group showed why no other country has won the Olympic group title since 1996.

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Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaxT2vguGXQ

References  

EGA Gymnastics. (n.d.).  Retrieved from EGA Gymnastics: http://egagymnastics.co.uk/rhythmic/

Grassie, J.  (2016, August 26). PyeongChang 2018. Retrieved from NBC Olympics:  http://archivepyc.nbcolympics.com/news/watch-top-rhythmic-gymnastics-moments-2016-rio-olympic-games

My Active SG. (n.d.).  Retrieved from My Active SG:  https://www.myactivesg.com/Sports/Gymnastics/How-To-Play/Gymnastics-for-Beginners/Rhythmic-gymnastics-apparatuses-and-rules

Women's Figure Skating Short Program | PyeongChang 2018

 Court Dimensions

Skating rinks vary in size depending on skill level of the athletes and performers, with the largest being an Olympic-sized rink. Skating rinks are often used for both figure skating and ice hockey games, and dimensions are typically the same for both. Unlike hockey, a figure skating rink is clear of goals and markings to allow athletes and performers the maximum amount of unimpeded space. Meant to provide a smooth and hard surface, the rink ice temperature ranges between -5.5C (22F) and -3.5C (26F). Figure Skating Rinks have an overall length of 196.85’ (60 m) and width of 98.43’ (30 m), for a total area of 18,707 ft² (1738 m²). The corners of a Figure Skating Rink have a radius of 27.89’ (8.5 m).

Equipment

Boots and Blades

Skaters wear leather boots, sometimes custom-fitted, reinforced with thick padding to brace the ankle and with wide tongues for control and flexibility. The figure skate’s blade is about 3/16 inch (4 mm) thick. It is hollow-ground to emphasize its two edges, although the skater usually uses only one edge at a time. The front of the blade, called the toe pick, contains serrations, which are planted into the ice and help the skater in certain jumps. The blade also allows the skater to pivot quickly on the ice in order to perform rapid 360-degree spins. Ice dancers wear skates with shorter blades and looser padding to facilitate quick foot movement.

Basic Skills

Figure skaters need to be able to glide, spin, turn, jump, hop, skip, and stop. They also need to develop agility, balance, coordination, flexibility, and the speed that comes from the explosive “quickness” of muscles.

Rules of the Game

·         Athletes must wear approved figure skates

·         Men must wear pants or trousers

·         Women must wear tights, trousers, and or unitards

·         Athletes must vary their performances from routine to routine

·         Certain types of music are not allowed

·         Athletes can be disqualified for not following time regulations

·         Costumes cannot be too decorative or revealing

Officiating Officials

Evaluators

Assess skaters at assessment days arranged periodically.

Technical Controllers and Technical Specialists

Are former athletes, coaches, Skate Canada judges or referees recruited for the correct identification of elements and levels of difficulty of these elements when attempted by skaters and teams in competition.

Judges

Officiate at all levels of competitions, and are responsible for assessing the quality with which a skater performs in competition and also assess competitive tests.

Referees

Oversee the ice conditions, ensures that all rules applicable to an assessment or competition are followed and acts as chairman of the judges’ panel and arbiter in policy or procedure disputes.

Data Specialists

Are the individuals responsible for calculating the marks awarded by the judges and tabulating the final result.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

The combination of artistry and athleticism in Evgenia Medvedeva’s skating is almost unmatched in the history of the sport. Technically, she’s brilliant; the way she completes jumps with her arms over her head is almost a brag, as if to say, “These jumps were getting too boring, I had to make them harder or I’d fall asleep.” Artistically, she’s so wonderfully expressive that she draws in the entire audience with a single movement. In the Olympic short program, Medvedeva skated flawlessly to the music of Chopin and set a new world record. She must have breathed a huge sigh of relief, “Surely THAT will keep the little jumping bean off my tail!” It was like that moment in a Halloween film where Jamie Lee Curtis is certain that she has finally killed Michael Myers, despite having absolutely no proof. You can guess what happened next; Alina Zagitova set a new world record, toppling Medvedeva’s by 1.31 points. Now, Medvedeva must come from behind to fulfill her destiny of winning. By no means would I count her out. She has more international experience than Zagitova and her program component scores are the gold standard.

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Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEtYYtwX1sM

References:

Britannica. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Britannica:  https://www.britannica.com/sports/figure-skating/Equipment-and-technique

Powell, B. (2020,  December 14). Dimensions. Retrieved from Dimensions:  https://www.dimensions.com/element/figure-skating-rink

Rookie Road. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Rookie Road: https://www.rookieroad.com/ice-skating/basics/

Skate Canada. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Skate Canada: https://skateabnwtnun.ca/officials/types-of-officials/#:~:text=In%20figure%20skating%20there%20are,a%20specific%20job%20to%20do.

Artistic Swimming - Full Team Event from Rio 2016

Court Dimensions

Synchronized swimming is played in a specially designed pool. The water in the pool must be clean and the temperature of the water must be around 25 degree Celsius. The size of the pool must be a minimum of 20m by 30m, and within that a 12m by 12m area must be at least 3 m deep.

Equipment

Nose Clip

In synchronized swimming, the athletes have to perform a lot of underwater movements. There are chances of water entering into the nose of the players. In order to avoid that, the athletes use a small clip of hard plastic or wire. It also has a thin rubber coating.

Goggles

Goggles provide safety to the eyes. Due to underwater movement, water may enter in the eyes. It is important to note that the goggles are not allowed for routine competitions.

Athletes can use goggles only for trainings. This is only used for figure test. Like goggles, athletes also cannot use the bathing caps during routine competitions. During figure test, only a white or black bathing cap is worn by athletes.

Underwater Speakers

The most important equipment for synchronized swimming is the underwater speakers. Swimmers cannot perform under water if the music is not audible. Music plays an important role in synchronized swimming because it is a rhythmic sport.

Swimsuit

One of the most important aspects of the swimsuit is that it must be comfortable for the athletes and it must be non-transparent. During the figure test, a black swimsuit is recommended for the athletes and during routine competition, a routine suit for each athlete that suits the music is recommended.

Basic Skills

Sculls

Sculls are hand movements used to propel the body and are essential to synchronised swimming. Some commonly used sculls are support, standard, torpedo, split-arm, barrel and paddle scull

Eggbeater

This move is much like how a manual eggbeater works, with one leg rotating in a clockwise manner and rotating the other leg in an anti-clockwise manner.

Positions

There are hundreds of positions that can be used to create infinite combinations.

Crane: Hold your body in a vertical position with one leg held vertically above the water surface, while the other leg is held parallel under the surface in a 90-degree angle or "L" shape.

Ballet Leg Double: From lying flat on the water surface, draw your knees towards your chest with shins parallel to the water surface. Straighten your legs above the water surface to assume a Surface Ballet Leg Double position.

Side Fishtail: This is a position similar to the crane. One leg remains vertical, while the other is extended to the side parallel to the water, creating a side "Y" position.

Knight: The body is held vertically with your head in line with the hips and pointed to the bottom of the pool. One leg is lowered to  create a vertical line perpendicular to the surface.

Flamingo: Similar to the ballet leg position where the bottom leg is pulled into the chest so that the shin of the bottom leg is touching the knee of the vertical leg.

Split: With the body vertical, one leg is stretched forward along the surface and the other leg is extended back along the surface.

Lifts

Lifts are formations that are formed underwater and as swimmers propel themselves towards the surface, they stay in formation and add more elements like acrobatics.

PARTS:

Flyer: Flyers are agile and flexible and are usually the smallest member of the team. It is preferable that they have a gymnastics background as they need to perform complicated moves while on the top of the formation.

Base: Base swimmers tends to be small in size, but should have good leg strength and a solid core as they make up the structure of the formation.

Pushers: Pushers are the bigger and stronger swimmers because they need the strength to propel the formation to the water surface.

TYPES:

Platform: The base lays out in a back layout position underwater, where they lie on their back to form a platform of interlinked bodies. The Flyer sets in a squatting position and stands once the lift reaches the surface. The remaining teammates use the eggbeater kicks to hold the platform and the flyer out of the water.

Stack: Considered to be an updated version of the Platform, the Stack Lift begins with the base squatting while underwater, supported by the pushers. The flyer then stands on the shoulders of the base. The pushers and base gradually stretch out their limbs, elevating the flyer. A rotating descent is usually added to this lift.

Rules of the Game

No Touching The Bottom

One of the things which makes the lifts all the more impressive is that artistic swimmers are not allowed to touch the bottom of the pool at any point during their routines.

No Bling

Presentation is a unique and important part of artistic swimming but there are certain restrictions on what swimmers can wear. For example, artistic swimmers are not permitted jewellery, theatrical make-up, or inappropriate costumes.

No Goggles

Another restriction during artistic swimming routines is goggles. However, swimmers in figures competitions are permitted to wear them.

Team Means Team

Teams normally contain eight swimmers, but the minimum number for a team is four. Teams lose marks for every swimmer they have under the full complement because it is easier to synchronise the fewer people there are in a routine.

Stick To The Schedule

Routines can be anything from two and a half minutes to five minutes long, depending on whether they are performed alone or as part of a team. However, swimmers are penalised if they take 15 seconds fewer or longer than the specified time.

Officiating Officials

Artistic Swimming Refree

The role of a Artistic Swimming referee is to oversee the control of an artistic swimming competition. The referee makes sure all aspects of the event are run smoothly and follow FINA rules.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Synchronised swimming is a form of rhythmic swimming where the athletes have to respond according to the music and have to swim or dance in water accordingly. Hence, the equipment used in this sport are quite different from other swimming sports. For the team competitions, the best ranked NOC in each of the five continental championships, with the exception of the host country Brazil which represented the Pan American continent, obtained a secured place for the Games, while the remaining NOCs battled out for the three highest-ranked spots at the Olympic Qualification Tournament. For the duet, the best ranked NOC in each of the five continental championships that did not have a qualified team assured a secured spot, while the other eleven top-ranked NOCs were selected through Olympic Qualification Tournament.

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Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRGQDubSAqw

References  

My Active SG. (n.d.). Retrieved  from My Active SG:  https://www.myactivesg.com/Sports/Aquatics/How-To-Play/Synchronised-Swimming/Basic-skills-and-positions-in-Synchronised-Swimming#:~:text=The%20basic%20skills%20you%20will,to%20combine%20into%20a%20routine.

Swim England  Artistic Swimming. (n.d.). Retrieved from Swimming:  https://www.swimming.org/artistic-swimming/introduction-to-artistic-swimming/

Swim England  Artistic Swimming. (n.d.). Retrieved from Swimming:  https://www.swimming.org/artistic-swimming/artistic-swimming-referee-training/

Tutorials Point. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Tutorials Point:  https://www.tutorialspoint.com/synchronized_swimming/synchronized_swimming_equipment.htm

Monica Puig (PUR) vs Angelique Kerber (GER) - Women's Tennis Singles Final | Rio 2016

Court Dimensions

Court

The court is 23.77m long and for singles matches, 8.23m wide. For doubles matches the court is 10.97m wide.

The court is divided into two equal areas by a net suspended by a cord or metal cable attached to two net posts. The net is 1.07m high and is fully extended to that it fills the space between the two nets posts. The net is 0.914m high at the centre, where is held down tightly by a white strap. A white band covers the cord or metal cable and the top of the net.

For doubles matches the centre of the net posts are 0.914m outside the doubles court on each side.

For singles matches the centres of the net posts are 0.914m outside the singles court on each side.

Line markings

The lines at the end of the court are baselines and the lines at the sides of the court are side lines. The baseline is up to 10cm wide.

Service lines are two lines between the singles side lines, 6.40m from each side of the net, parallel with the net.

On each side of the net the area between the service line and the net are divided into two equal parts called the service courts. The line dividing the service courts is the centre service line and is drawn parallel with the singles side lines and half way between them. The centre service line is 5cm wide.

All other lines on the court are between 2.5cm and 5cm wide. All court measurements are made to the outside of the lines and are all the same colour, contrasting with the colour of the surface.

Equipment

Racket

Rackets can be made of many alloys or wood. There are no restrictions on the size or materials used in making a racket. It has an oval head and a gradually widening throat that connects the narrow handle with the head of the racket.

Ball

As per ITF rules, Tennis balls are yellow colored spherical balls, with a diameter between 2.5 and 2.625 inches. They weigh between 2 and 21/16 oz. Pressurized rubber is used to make semi spherical half shells. They are then joined with compressed air between them.

Net

A rectangular net is used to separate the two sides of a Tennis court. The net should cover the space between the two net posts. The net is woven in such a way that it does not allow the Tennis ball to pass through. It is usually tied in about 3 feet above the ground at the centre.

Wrist Bands

Wrist bands are worn around wrists to prevent sweat from wetting the players’ palm or the racket. A wet grip might not be strong.

Head Band

Headbands are used to absorb sweat. They also tie player’s hair away from their face. Any tight cap made of absorbent material can also be used instead of a head band.

Tennis Shoes

Just running shoes don’t provide enough lateral support to players. Tennis shoes are designed to give players better stability and prevent them from sliding while moving sideways. Shoes shouldn’t damage the court when players move briskly across the court.

Dress

Men wear T-Shirts or shirts made of materials like polyester that does not absorb sweat and keeps the player cool. They wear shorts that do not cover their knees.

Though women are advised to wear just any comfortable dress, of late many Tennis champions try to make a style statement with their carefully designed clothes. Many players prefer wearing a tank top or a T-shirt on a short skirt.

Basic Skills

Footwork

Although you’re not traveling a far distance to the naked eye, tennis players actually rack up miles of walking and running throughout the course of a match. Endurance is key, but so is your footwork because there are tons of quick movements that you need to make in a short period of time and over a short distance.

Serving

This is a crucial part of the game because if you’re not able to effectively serve a tennis ball, it’ll be hard to take control of any game or match you’re participating in. The actual act of serving a ball takes but a few seconds. However, there are tons of small movements within the act itself that make up a successful experience with honing this skill. These small movements include mastering the ball toss, gaining a consistent point of contact, and properly timing each of your movements.

Forehand and Backhand Strokes

There are a number of different strokes used during a tennis match, but forehand and backhand strokes are easily the most common. Learning how your body responds to the backswing, the point of contact, and the follow-through of each stroke is crucial before going on and learning anything else.

Rules of the Game

Who Serves First

Usually the age old question of who serves first is settled by a simple coin toss. The person who wins the coin toss may elect to serve first or select a side of the court which he would like to receive his opponents serve.

The server will continue serving the ball to the receiver until the set has ended. After the set has ended, the receiver will become the server and serve the ball until the next set has ended. This process is repeated throughout the match.

Fault and Double Fault

The server is given two opportunities to serve the ball within the service court as marked in the diagram below. When the server fails to get his first serve into the diagonally opposite service court, it is called a fault serve. A double fault is committed if the server fails to get his second serve into the diagonally opposite service court and the receiver will then earn a point.

If the ball hits the net and falls within the service court, this is called a “net serve”, the server will be entitled to re-serve the ball into the service court. For example, if a “net serve” is made on the server’s first serve, the server will be entitled to re-serve his first serve. There are no limits to the number of “net serves” a player can commit.

The server should stand before the right side of the baseline and serve the ball diagonally across to the receiver’s right service court and then proceed to serve from his left side of the baseline diagonally across to the receiver’s left service court.

Counting Scores

Counting score in tennis match is some tricky business. The server’s score is always announced first before the receiver’s throughout the game.

The point system of a tennis match is as follows:

• No points are scored = Love

• 1 point scored = 15 points

• 2 points scored = 30 points

• 3 points scored = 40 points

• 4 points earned = set point (set over)

For a tennis player to win a game, he/she must win with at least a two point lead.  

If the score is tied at 40 to 40 (what is called as a “Deuce”), a player must earn two consecutive points (an “Advantage” point and “Point”) to win the game. If the player who has an “Advantage” point loses the next point, the score will be “Deuce” once again.

A set is won when a player has won a minimum of six games with a two game advantage over his opponent.

In or Out

In a game of singles, the ball must be hit within both “SERVICE COURTS”, the “BACK COURT” and the “ALLEY LINE” as marked in the diagram below for a point to be scored. Balls hit in the between the “SIDE LINE” and “ALLEY LINE” are considered balls hit out of court and thus earning your opponent a point.

In a doubles game, the ball must be hit within both “SERVICE COURTS”, the “BACK COURT” and the area between the “ALLEY LINE” and “SIDE LINE” for a point to be scored.  

Officiating Officials

Line Umpires

Line Umpires get to call the shots – literally – at all levels of tournaments, from grassroots all the way through to the Australian Open.

Chair Umpires

The Chair Umpire is the most important person on court during a match. Has enormous responsibility during a match, and are responsible for everything from calling the score to enforcing the rules and managing the players.

Community Official

They are responsible for monitoring a number of courts at a tournament or competition. They assist and educate players, parents and coaches; and assist in the smooth running of an event.

Referees

The Referee is the expert in all things rules and regulations. Referees supervise all aspects of a tournament, from taking charge of the draws and schedules, to enforcing the rules and making sure everything runs smoothly and in the spirit of fairness.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Monica Puig finished her Cinderella run at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday, beating Angelique Kerber in three sets to win the gold medal in the women's singles tennis tournament, 6-4, 4-6, 6-1. The two were evenly matched throughout the first set, but Kerber started to limp toward the end of the set and requested a lengthy medical timeout after Puig took the lead. The German star recovered, however, breaking early in the second set and eventually forcing a decider. Puig had the advantage in the rallies, placing her shots with accuracy and keeping Kerber moving. With the crowd on her side, she had another break chance in the sixth game, but Kerber kept her cool and averted the danger with her serve. Kerber had to serve to stay alive in the set, down 5-4 at a time when Puig appeared to be surging, and the underdog powered her way to a quick 30-0 advantage. Taking plenty of risks, she then earned two break points as Kerber fired a forehand well over the back line, and a lucky shot that clipped the net gave Puig the first set. Puig held, but Kerber's serve was clicking. And Puig didn't seem to be capable of finding another break in the second set. She went close in the sixth game, forcing deuce, but Kerber showed her class when needed, again using her serve to work her way out of trouble. Kerber found more break chances in the next game, with Puig gifting her an opportunity with a double-fault, and with a fantastic backhand, she broke back and set up a service game to take the final to a third set. The fourth break chance didn't yield any results, either, but neither did Puig's second match ball, as a wacky rally at the net saw Kerber tie the game again. A third match ball bounced off the net and landed on the right side for Kerber, and a double-fault gave her another break chance. But once again, Puig tied things up with a drop shot. The fourth match ball proved to be the clincher as Kerber fired a forehand wide to bring an end to the contest. Two games later, she earned two break points, and she only needed the first, as Kerber put a routine volley into the net.

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Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5-iONJOk4NM

References  

Active SG. (n.d.).  Retrieved from My Active SG:  https://www.myactivesg.com/Sports/Tennis/How-To-Play/Tennis-Rules/Basic-rules-of-tennis

Adidas Tennis  Camps. (2020, January 27). Retrieved from Tennis Camper:  https://tenniscamper.com/3-tennis-skills-all-beginners-need-to-master%EF%BB%BF/

Department of  Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries. (2019, July 12). Retrieved  from DLGSC: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/sport-and-recreation/sports-dimensions-guide/tennis#:~:text=The%20court,court%20is%2010.97m%20wide.

Tennis. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Tennis:  https://www.tennis.com.au/learn/ballkids-officials-coaches-and-volunteers/officiating/types-of-tennis-official

Tutorials Point. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Tutorials Point:  https://www.tutorialspoint.com/tennis/tennis_equipment.htm

Men's Singles Table Tennis Final - Full Match | Rio 2016

Court Dimensions

Table Tennis Table

Are regulated playing surfaces designed specifically for the game of table tennis (ping-pong). Table tennis tables measure 9’ | 2.74 m long by 5’ | 1.525 m in wide. The playing surface of a ping-pong table must be set at a height of 2.5’ | 76 cm and is equipped with a center net that is 6” | 15.25 cm high and stretches 6” | 15.25 cm beyond the width of the table.

Equipment

Racket

Composed of a blade and 2 rubbers. One rubber must be black, and another one must be red

Ball

40+mm table tennis ball, color white or orange. Nowadays, you must use a Poly Ball 40+mm. We don’t play the celluloid ball 38mm anymore.

Clothing and Shoes

Clothing (t-shirts, shorts) and shoes are your images. It not only shows your etiquette, your professionalism but also your attitude to the sport.

Basic Skills

Stance and Footwork

Feet: Your feet should be wide, about 1.5 or more shoulder widths apart so that you can quickly move side-to-side. Keep your non-dominant foot slightly ahead of the other (for right-handed people, this means keeping your left foot slightly closer to the table, for left-handed people it’s the opposite).

Ankles and knees: Keep your knees and ankles slightly bent and flexible, with your weight forward on your toes. This keeps your body ready to move forward or backward as needed.

Back and Shoulders: Keep your upper body slightly bent at the waist. With the bent ankles, knees, and waist and your shoulders forward, your whole body is in a slightly crouched position, ready to spring into action.

Arms: Your arms should be in front of your body, with your elbow and paddle in front of you.

Holding the paddle: The exact position of your hands and arms in your stance depends on your grip or how you hold the bat. There are two basic grips in table tennis: the shakehand grip, and the penhold grip. The different types of grip have specific variations for your hand position on the paddle depending on your preference and style of play.

Table Tennis Strokes

Forehand Drive: The forehand drive is the most basic and fundamental ping pong stroke. It returns aggressive/attacking strokes and lands your ball close to the opponent’s baseline or sideline. With the forehand drive, you rotate your body to the back to add power to the ball, so rotate the upper body away and transfer your weight onto your back foot, moving your arm straight back.

Backhand Drive: The backhand drive is the mirror of the forehand drive, intended to return attacking shots and land the ball at the opponent’s baseline. To deliver a backhand drive, stand with your torso in the path of the ball (rather than reaching with your arm), and keep your stance angled toward the table with your free arm pointed toward the ball.

Backhand Push: The backhand push returns short balls, and prevents your opponent from making an attacking return. As with the backhand drive, your body should be positioned in line with the ball, rather than reaching to the side with your arm.

Forehand Push: The forehand push is also designed for returning short balls and preventing attacking shots. Like the forehand drive, you stand with the dominant foot slightly back, and rotate the upper body to accentuate the motion of the paddle. However, unlike the forehand drive, you do a smaller backswing, rotating your wrist forward through the range of motion, and keep your paddle open to brush beneath the ball.

Serving

A table tennis serve is the final basic skill, and it’s a crucial skill since the serve is the only time you have complete control of the ball and the game. There are a number of different types of serves each with different pros and cons but the basics remain the same. To serve in table tennis:

1.    Balance the ball on the palm of your free hand with the hand open.

2.    Throw the ball vertically upward so that it rises at least 6 inches above your hand.

3.    As the ball drops, hit it with your chosen stroke, ensuring that it bounces on your side of the table, goes over the net, and bounces on your opponent’s side of the table.

Rules of the Game

1. No Hands On The Table

Believe it or not, leaning your hands on the table is not allowed in the sport. So, you should never touch the table with your hands. If you do so, you will lose a point. If you have ever played table tennis, you probably know that this is a common practice – especially when the ball is high in the air and bouncing and you want to smash it in the opponent’s part of the table.

2.When Serving, The Ball Must Be Thrown 15mm

Another rule which you may not knew about the game is that the ball must be thrown at least 15 millimeters in height while serving. Obviously, this kind of toss is a good habit – and what it means is that you must throw it at least 15mm into the air from the flat palm of your hand before it is being hit. You are also not allowed to throw the ball in any way which adds spin to it.

3. If The Ball Hits The Net On Service, You Should Serve Again

Sometimes, when you serve the ball in table tennis, it hits the net – and either falls in your part or the opponent’s part of the table. If this happens, you should know that the official rule is to re-serve and replay the serve. There is no actual limit to how many “nets” a player can have on first serve, but the general rule sticks to three in total (before a point is lost).

4. The Ball Must Be Held In A Flat Palm Above The Table

When preparing to serve, you need to hold the ball flat in the palm of your hand and above the table – all in order to ensure that the opponent and the umpire can clearly see it as well as the direction in which it is thrown (held).

5. Rubber Colors

Last but not the least is the rule of rubber and its colors. If you ever held a table tennis paddle, you probably know that one of the sides has a black rubber and the other has a red one. This is only to ensure that the opposing player knows what to expect when they serve – with either the black or red rubber – as well as to prevent any confusion.

Officiating the Sport

Scoring

A competitive game of table tennis is played to the best of five or seven games. The first player to get to 11 points in a game is the winner. However, if a game is tied at 10-10, a player must win a game by two clear points. You do not lose service if you lose a point - each player must serve for two points in a row before handing the service over to their opponent.

Officials

For every table tennis competition, a referee is appointed with a deputy who can act on their behalf. The referee is required to be present at the venue throughout a tournament and is required to uphold the rules.

During a table tennis match, an umpire is appointed to decide on the result of each point or rally. The umpire is required to use their judgement when applying the laws and regulations of the ITTF. Where the umpire is officiating alone, their decision is final and they should be seated about 2–3 metres from the side of the table and in line with the net.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Table Tennis has a new Olympic Men’s Singles champion after Ma Long defeated the previous title holder Zhang Jike with a dominant 4-0 triumph. Ma’s performance on the night was legendary, as the world number one saw off Zhang- seeded 2nd just below him – without dropping a single game. However, despite the crushingly one-sided end scoreline, Zhang gave the new champion a good match as fans were treated to a wonderful final. The first game of the final opened brightly as Ma and Zhang produced some fantastic rallies right from out of the blocks. Ma made a positive start to the end and went 8-4 in front, but Zhang then began to grow into the game, winning a number of points with shots down the line from his backhand side to edge 8-9 ahead. Both competitors knew how important it was to take game one, and Ma did just that (14-12) to earn the early advantage. Ma was becoming more and more confident by the second, while simultaneously dampening Zhang’s mood. Game three featured a masterclass in attack-against-attack, and attack-against-defence rallies, both players giving it their all as the atmosphere in the Riocentro – Pavilion 3 hit fever pitch. But the established pattern prevailed and Ma extended his lead (11-4) to move ever closer to Olympic glory. Zhang’s body language heading into the fourth game looked negative, and the 28-year-old fell 3-0 down leading to his time-out. China’s Head Coach Liu Guoliang sat in the stands to show respect for both of his athletes, leaving it up to Zhang to find his way back into the final. Despite winning back-to-back points after the break, Zhang simply ran out of ideas for an alternative approach as Ma finished off his opponent in straight games (14-12, 11-5, 11-4, 11-4) to seal the gold medal for China. Following the conclusion of the match, Ma Long showed his appreciation toward the fans by forming the shape of a heart with his hands, and in a rather touching moment the Rio 2016 champion stood side-by-side with Zhang Jike to lift the Chinese flag aloft. Ma took time after his win to talk about his experience in the final, “I played well throughout the match; the title is only possible with that high level of play.”

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Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5H-Eq_Kcxw

References:

BBC. (n.d.).  Retrieved from BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/z9m7xsg/revision/3

Custom Table  Tennis. (2018, October 25). Retrieved from Custom Table Tennis:  https://www.customtabletennis.co.uk/the-5-basic-rules-of-playing-table-tennis/

Daish, S. (2017,  March 21). ITTF. Retrieved from ITTF:  https://www.ittf.com/2016/08/12/day-six-report-ma-long-strikes-mens-singles-gold-rio-2016/

Maddock, B.  (2020, November 14). Dimensions. Retrieved from Dimensions:  https://www.dimensions.com/element/table-tennis-ping-pong-table#:~:text=Table%20tennis%20tables%20measure%209,the%20width%20of%20the%20table.

Philippines vs Thailand Badminton Men's Singles Quarterfinals Sea Games 2019

Court Dimensions

The badminton court is 13.4m long and 6.1m wide. For singles the court is marked 5.18m wide. The lines marking out the court are easily distinguishable and coloured white or yellow. The lines are 40mm wide. A court may be marked out for singles only. The back boundary lines also become the long service lines and the posts or the strips of material representing them are placed on the side lines. The diagonal full length of the full court is 14.366m.

Posts

The posts are 1.55m high from the surface of the court and remain vertical when the net is strained. The posts are placed on the double side lines irrespective of whether singles or doubles is played. The posts or supports must not extend into the court beyond the side lines. Where it is not practicable to have posts on the side lines, some method can be used to indicate the position of the side lines where they pass under the net, eg by the use of thin posts or strips of material 40mm wide, fixed to the side lines and rising vertically to the net cord.

Net

The net is 760mm in depth and a minimum of 6.1m wide. The top of the net from the surface of the court is 1.524m at the centre of the court and 1.55m over the side lines for doubles. There must be no gaps between the ends of the net and the posts. If necessary, the full depth of the net at the ends is tied to the posts.

 Equipment

Badminton Racket

Badminton rackets can be made from several types of materials. Depending on the material selection, this can result in different combinations of racket weight, balance points and string tensions. With so many different combinations, it will take time to decide which is most suited for your playing style.  

Shuttlecock

Plastic shuttlecocks are far more durable compared to the feathered types which are commonly used. However, plastic shuttlecocks are only recommended for beginners who are just starting out. This is because feathered shuttlecocks are expensive and fray easily especially if the wrong technique is used. Hence, plastic shuttlecocks are good for beginners to use for training.

Badminton Shoes

Badminton shoes are designed to give you better traction and grip to stop in time to return a shot. They should also be lightweight have good cushioning to absorb impact when you jump or land.

Badminton Attire

For casual to non-competitive players, a comfortable pair of shorts and cotton or dri-fit t-shirt is sufficient. Some players may want to equip themselves with hand grips, wrist bands and ankle guards.

 Basic Skills

Grip

Forehand grip: Anything on your racquet side (right side if you’re right-handed, left side if you’re left-handed) whether it be overarm or underarm.

Backhand grip: Anything to your non-racket side (left side if you’re right-handed, right side if you’re left-handed) whether it be overarm of underarm.

Universal grip: A type of backhand grip where your thumb has moved to the edge of the fatter face of your grip. This is used for backhand cross-court net shots, backhand clears, and backhand straight drop shots from the rear court.

Panhandle grip: Where your thumb and the finger pinch the top of the racket in order to tap/net-kill the incoming shuttlecock.

Serve

High Serve: used when you want to force your opponent to run to the back of the court by hitting the shuttlecock toward the rear end of the court (sometimes the corner).

Low Serve: The low serve is used to bring the opponent forward by hitting the shuttlecock toward the front of the court. If you managed to send a fabulous low serve, the opponent would have to dash forward and move under the shuttle to return it.

Footwork

With proper footwork, you will be able to conserve energy and face shots coming toward you from any direction.

Stance

Defensive Stance: Using the defensive stance, you could perform a lift to buy some time. This time will help you regain your posture and prepare for the opposing player’s reply.

Attacking Stance: By utilizing the attacking stance, and depending on the opponent’s stroke, you can also send a drop shot.

Net Stance: When you are in the net stance, get ready to perform a net kill move to an attacking stance to perform a winning smash.

Stroke

Forehand Shots: Forehand shots should be played when the shuttlecock is on your racket side. Your index finger will control the forehand stroke as you swing overarm or underarm. Swing the wrist along with your index finger as support to play a forehand stroke.

Backhand shots: Backhand shots should be played when the shuttlecock is on your non-racket side with your thumb controlling the strokes. While playing badminton, your light grip will mean you’ll be able to switch between the forehand and backhand grip at ease. To play a backhand shot, hold the racquet with the back of your hand in front and swing your wrist forward while using your thumb as support.

 Rules of the Game

The 10 rules of badminton are as follows:

1. A game starts with a coin toss. Whoever wins the toss gets to decide whether they would serve or receive first OR what side of the court they want to be on. The side losing the toss shall then exercise the remaining choice.

2. At no time during the game should the player touch the net, with his racquet or his body.

3. The shuttlecock should not be carried on or come to rest on the racquet.

4. A player should not reach over the net to hit the shuttlecock.

5. A serve must carry cross court (diagonally) to be valid.

6. During the serve, a player should not touch any of the lines of the court, until the server strikes the shuttlecock. During the serve the shuttlecock should always be hit from below the waist.

7. A point is added to a player's score as and when he wins a rally.

8. A player wins a rally when he strikes the shuttlecock and it touches the floor of the opponent's side of the court or when the opponent commits a fault. The most common type of fault is when a player fails to hit the shuttlecock over the net or it lands outside the boundary of the court.

9. Each side can strike the shuttlecock only once before it passes over the net. Once hit, a player can't strike the shuttlecock in a new movement or shot.

10. The shuttlecock hitting the ceiling, is counted as a fault.

 Officiating the Sport

Umpire: The ‘main judge’ for the particular badminton game. He/she has the power to overrule any decisions made by the service judge or line judges. The umpire is the person ensuring that the badminton game is run smoothly and prevent any players from delaying the game play. Whenever a player requests to change the shuttle, the umpire will need to approve that the change could be made. The umpire also looks out for faults committed around the net area such as whether a player touched the net when returning the shuttle. Besides, the umpire is responsible to make a ‘fault’ call when the shuttle touches the player or the players’ attires except for the badminton racket. In badminton, it will be a fault/foul to a player if the shuttle touches any part of that player’s body or attire.

Service Judge: The service judge is responsible in making a ‘service fault’ call and to provide shuttles to the players.

Line Judges: Line judges sit beside the badminton court (right in front of every in/out lines) to determine whether the shuttle is inside or outside the boundaries of the court.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

After an impressive two-game stretch in the preliminary round where they didn’t drop a single set against Cambodia and Vietnam, the Filipinos suddenly landed on the receiving end of a sweep after dropping a hard-fought game against undefeated Indonesia. Although team stars Marck Espejo, Bryan Bagunas and the fast-rising Joshua Retamar brought their A-game as usual, their overall defense was practically non-existent as they only mustered one block in their first tournament loss. A win for the Philippines means an assured silver, while a loss means needing to fight for bronze. After absorbing its first loss, the Philippine men's volleyball team faces another tough foe in defending champion Thailand in the semifinal round.

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Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTm2dbteyt4

References

Allyson. (n.d.). Master Badminton. Retrieved from Master Badminton: https://www.masterbadminton.com/who-are-the-officials-of-badminton.html

Department of Local Government, Sport and CUltural Industries. (2019, July 11). Retrieved from dlgsc: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/sport-and-recreation/sports-dimensions-guide/badminton#:~:text=Court%20dimensions,The%20lines%20are%2040mm%20wide.

Lee, N. (n.d.). ActiveSG. Retrieved from myactivesg: https://www.myactivesg.com/Sports/Badminton/How-To-Play/Badminton-Equipment/Getting-Started-for-a-Game-of-Badminton

USA vs Serbia Full Game | Basketball Men's Gold Medal Match | Olympic Games Rio 2016

 Court Dimensions

The length of a basketball court is 28m. These measurements can be reduced to 26m for Premier, Club and Community courts where only smaller spaces are available.

The width of an International-standard basketball court in the UK is usually 15m. The court lines can be reduced by no more than 1m (14m) if required for lower levels of play.

The total area of a professional basketball court is 420m². The minimum area allowed under Basketball England's guidance is 364m². These measurements apply to both indoor and outdoor courts.

The addition of 2.05m run-offs and 2m for teams and officials on the sideline increases the total area to 677.31m².

Basketball court markings

Regulation line markings must be 50mm width in a contrasting colour to the playing surface.

Sidelines

The outer edge of the court is denoted by the sidelines, which run the length of the court. On a full-sized court they measure 28m.

Baseline and endline

The terms baseline and endline both refer to the ends of the court running behind the goals. Typically they measure 15m.

The use of the different terms depends on the direction a team is playing. Endline is the term for the end of the court which a team is defending, baseline is the for the attacking end.

Mid court

This is the halfway mark on the court and is used to denote the offensive playing area during a game.

On a full-sized court, the mid court line would be 14m from each endline.

Centre circle

Used for the opening tip off, the centre circle has a 3.6m diameter.

Three point line

The three point lines are the arcs that mark a range boundary from each hoop. Scoring from outside this line is worth three points. The distance of the line will vary depending on the level of game, but is typically 6.75m from the basket.

Free throw line

The free throw line, marked 4.6m from the backboard, is the mark at which a player must stand when shooting free throws.

Free throw circle

The free throw circle is the same size as the centre circle (3.6m in diameter). Shooters must stay inside this circle when taking a free throw. The circle is also used for jump balls.

Free throw lane lines/key

Lane lines run from the free throw line to the baseline, to form the 'key'. The shape and width can vary depending on the level of the game, but FIBA (International Basketball Federation) regulation changes in 2010 set it as a 4.9m by 5.8m rectangle.

Some also include space markings to keep opposing players from obstructing the free throw shooter.

Equipment

Basket

A hoop or basket with net around its circumference and of 18 inch diameter is firmly hung horizontally from a rectangular backboard of 3.5 feet height and 6 feet width on either sides of the court. The rim of the hoop is 10 feet above the ground. The backboard in various international competitions is transparent for better visibility.

Ball

Basketball is an orange-colored and rough-textured spherical ball with black contours usually made of leather or composite tough materials.

The ball is bounced continuously (dribbling), thrown through the air to other players (passing), and towards the basket (shooting). So a typical basketball must be very durable and easy to hold on to.

Other Equipment

There may be some more equipment for convenience. Some international courts have a game clock that makes a beep at the end of each period. Some also show the shot clock countdown. Sometimes, the back boards have bordering lights that light up and indicate that a period is about to end.

Basic Skills

Dribbling

Dribbling is an important skill for all basketball players. This skill will allow you to move up and down the court, maneuver past defenders and execute plays. Proper dribbling requires ball-handling skills and knowledge of how to spread your fingers for ball control. It is also best if you know how to dribble equally well with both hands.

Shooting

In order to score points in basketball, you need to shoot the ball into the hoop. This requires the ability to properly hold and throw the ball into the air toward the basket while avoiding defenders. A proper shot requires precise aiming, arm extension and lift from the legs. There are different types of shots you need to learn, including jump shots, layups and free throws.

Running

Running is a big part of basketball. In a full-court game, you will find yourself running back and forth as the game quickly transitions between offense and defense. When you have the ball, running will help you to avoid defenders and get to the basket quicker. On defense, you often will find yourself needing to run after the opponent, especially during fast breaks.

Passing

Passing is another skill that when mastered can help you become a complete basketball player. Basketball is a team sport that involves finding a teammate who is open for a shot. The ability to pass the ball to this player can make the difference between scoring and not scoring. Really great passers are an important part of a basketball team and usually the ones who set up scoring plays.

Jumping

Jumping is another skill that can define how good a basketball player is. Jumping is involved in offense during the jump ball in the beginning, while taking shots and sometimes while trying to catch a pass. On defensive you will need the ability to jump when trying to block a shot or a pass. Being able to out jump your opponent for a rebound also is important.

Rules of the Game

Rules for the offense

The basketball team on offense is the team with the basketball. When a player has the basketball there are certain rules they must follow:

1) The player must bounce, or dribble, the ball with one hand while moving both feet. If, at any time, both hands touch the ball or the player stops dribbling, the player must only move one foot. The foot that is stationary is called the pivot foot. 2) The basketball player can only take one turn at dribbling. In other words, once a player has stopped dribbling they cannot start another dribble. A player who starts dribbling again is called for a double-dribbling violation and looses the basketball to the other team. A player can only start another dribble after another player from either team touches or gains control of the basketball. This is usually after a shot or pass.

3) The ball must stay in bounds. If the offensive team looses the ball out of bounds the other team gets control of the basketball.

4) The players hand must be on top of the ball while dribbling. If they touch the bottom of the basketball while dribbling and continue to dribble this is called carrying the ball and the player will lose the ball to the other team.

5) Once the offensive team crosses half court, they may not go back into the backcourt. This is called a backcourt violation. If the defensive team knocks the ball into the backcourt, then the offensive team can recover the ball legally.

Defensive Rules

The team on defense is the team without the basketball.

1)    The main rule for the defensive player is not to foul. A foul is described as gaining an unfair advantage through physical contact. There is some interpretation that has to be made by the referee, but, in general, the defensive player may not touch the offensive player in a way that causes the offensive player to lose the ball or miss a shot.

Rules for everyone

1) Although the foul rule is described above as a defensive rule, it applies exactly the same to all players on the court including offensive players.

2) Basketball players cannot kick the ball or hit it with their fist.

3) No player can touch the basketball while it is traveling downward towards the basket or if it is on the rim. This is called goaltending. (touching the ball on the rim is legal in some games). Every player on the court is subject to the same rules regardless of the position they play. The positions in basketball are just for team basketball strategy and there are no positions in the rules.

Officiating the Sport

Officials Conduct Game

During actual play, there is no practical difference between the referee and umpire(s). They are equally responsible for the conduct of the game; and, because of the speed of play, their duties are dictated essentially by their respective positions on the court from moment to moment. For this reason, the rules specify that no official has the authority to question decisions made by another official. The officials' control, which begins 30 minutes before starting time for men and 15 minutes for women and concludes with the referee's approval of the final score, includes the power to eject from the court any player, coach or team follower who is guilty of flagrant unsporting conduct. When the referee leaves the confines of the playing area at the end of the game, the score is final and may not be changed.

Officials’ Signals

When a foul occurs, the official is required by the rules to (a) signal the timer to stop the clock, (b) designate the offender to the scorer and © use his or her fingers to indicate the number of free throws. When a team is entitled to a throw-in, an official must (a) signal what caused the ball to become dead, (b) indicate the throw-in spot (except after a goal) and (c) designate the team entitled to the throw-in.

Duties of Scorers and Timers

Scorers must (a) record, in numerical order, names and numbers of all players, (b) record field goals made and free throws made and missed, (c) keep a running summary of points scored, (d) record fouls called on each player and notify officials when a player-disqualification or bonus-free-throw situation arises, (e) record timeouts and report when a team' s allotted number has been used, and (f) record when a squad member has been ejected for fighting. It is the game-clock and shot-clock operators' responsibility to keep everyone abreast of key factors while carrying out the timing regulations.

Scorers and Timers

When a basketball referee makes a call, he or she will use hand signals such as these to notify players and spectators of the exact nature of the foul, violation, or stoppage of play.

The Officiating Staff

The makeup of the officiating corps is strictly a matter of choice. The minimum number is five: a referee, an umpire, a scorer, a timer and a shot-clock operator. In some cases, eight officials are used in a lineup comprising a referee, two umpires, a shot-clock operator, two scorers and two timers.

Referee (Official in Charge)

The rules of basketball are the rules and regulations that govern the play, officiating, equipment and procedures of basketball. While many of the basic rules are uniform throughout the world, variations do exist. Most leagues or governing bodies in North America, the most important of which are the National Basketball Association and NCAA, formulate their own rules. In addition, the Technical Commission of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) determines rules for international play; most leagues outside North America use the complete FIBA ruleset.

The referee is the official that controls the game. He is the one who tosses the ball up for the center jump at the start of the game and each overtime period. He duties range from inspecting and approving all equipment before the game's starting time to approving the final score. In between, the referee is responsible for the notification of each team three minutes before each half is to begin and deciding matters of disagreement among the officials. The referee has the power to make decisions on any point not specifically covered in the rules and even to forfeit the game if necessary.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Led by 30 points and four assists from two-time Olympic gold medalist Kevin Durant and dominating on both ends of the court to outscore Serbia (4-4) 33-14 in the second quarter, the 2016 U.S. Olympic Men’s Basketball Team (8-0) claimed a third straight Olympic gold medal on Sunday afternoon at Carioca Arena 1 in Rio de Janeiro. The USA now has a 25-game Olympic win streak and a 53-game win streak in major competition, including Olympic, FIBA World Cup and FIBA Americas games. Spain (5-3) edged out Australia (5-3) 89-88 for the bronze medal. Leading by four-points at the end of the first quarter, the USA blew the game open in the second period. The Americans finished with a 54-33 rebounding advantage and got a 13-point, 15-rebound double-double from DeMarcus Cousins The game started off with four tied scores and five lead changes. The USA fell behind 14-11in the first quarter after Serbia made a free throw at 3:12, but the USA closed with a 7-1 stretch that included a 3 from Durant, and the USA headed into the second period with a 19-15 advantage. Paul George started off the second quarter for the USA with a steal and slam dunk, which was followed by four free throws from Cousins, and the USA led 25-17 1:46 into the second. Serbia scored to end the streak, but the USA was not slowed. Durant went on to sink four 3-pointers to lead a U.S. charge that outscored Serbia 33-14 in the quarter to lead 52-29 at halftime. The U.S. defense in the second quarter held Serbia to 31.6 percent from the field (6-19), while it shot 55.6 percent (10-18). By halftime, the USA had a 31-16 rebounding advantage. Cousins already had 11 points and 12 rebounds and Durant had scored 24 points, including five 3-pointers. Carmelo Anthony, the first four-time Olympian and first three-time Olympic gold medalist in U.S. men’s basketball history, started off the second half with a 3-pointer and went on to score seven points in the quarter, while six other U.S. players added points to help the USA take a 79-43 lead into the fourth period. All 12 U.S. players scored, Klay Thompson added 12 points and George finished with nine points. Kyle Lowry handed out five assists and Kyrie Irving dished out four assists as the Americans recorded 24 assists on 34 made baskets. The USA held Serbia to 38.2 percent from the field (26-68 FGs), turned 18 Serbian turnovers into 26 points and recorded 30 fast break points. Overall in the tournament, the USA beat teams by an average of 22.5 points per game.

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Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtm0khT1qec

References  

Ducksters. (n.d.).  Retrieved from Ducksters:  https://www.ducksters.com/sports/basketballrules.php

Harrod Sport. (2020, 24 6). Retrieved  from Harrod Sport:  https://www.harrodsport.com/advice-and-guides/basketball-court-dimensions-markings

Janeiro, R. d.  (2016, 21 August). USA Basketball. Retrieved from USAB:  https://www.usab.com/news-events/news/2016/08/moly-vs-srb-gold-medal-recap.aspx

Stewart, T.  (2018, December 11). SportsRec. Retrieved from SportsRec:  https://www.sportsrec.com/8072917/the-five-basic-skills-of-basketball

Tan, M. C. (2014,  August 31). Prezi. Retrieved from Prezi:  https://prezi.com/wvvzwu2qcp64/officiating-officialsrules-and-regulations-of-basketball/#:~:text=The%20makeup%20of%20the%20officiating,two%20scorers%20and%20two%20timers.

SEA Games 2019: PHL VS VIE Volleyball Women's Opener (Full) | Volleyball

Court Dimensions

Indoor volleyball

The playing court is 18m long and 9m wide and is surrounded by a free zone 3m wide on all sides.

The space above the playing area is known as the free playing space and is a minimum of 7m high from the playing surface.

For FIVB, world and official competitions, the free zone measures a minimum of 5m from the side lines and 8m from the ends lines. The free playing space is a minimum of 7m high from the playing surface.

Playing surface

The playing surface is flat and a light colour. For FIVB, world and official competitions, only a wooden or synthetic surface is allowed.

White colours are required for the lines. Other different colours are required for the playing court and free zone.

Line markings

All lines on the court are 5cm wide and are a light colour different from the colour of the floor.

The boundary lines are the two side lines and end lines. The centre line divides the playing court into two equal courts, 9m x 9m each. This line extends from beneath the net from sideline to sideline.

On each court the rear edge of the attack line is drawn 3m back from the middle of the centre line and marks the front zone.

Zones and areas

The front zone on each court is limited by the axis of the centre line and the rear edge of the attack line. The front zone extends beyond the side lines to the end of the free zone.

The service zone is a 9m wide area behind each end line and extends to the end of the free zone. It is 15cm long and drawn 20cm behind the end line as an extension of the side lines.

The substitution zone extends from both attack lines to the scorer’s table.

The Libero Replacement zone is part of the free zone on the same side as the team benches, extending from the attack line up to the end line.

A penalty area, 1m x 1m, is located in the control area outside of the endlines.

Nets and posts

The net is 2.43m high for men and 2.24m high for women. It is placed vertically over the centre line. It is 1m wide and 9.5m‑­10m long and is 10cm square black mesh.

The height of the net is measured from the centre of the playing court.

The antenna is a flexible rod, 1.8m long and 10mm in diameter and made of fibreglass or similar material. It is fastened on opposite sides of the net. The top of the antenna extends 80cm above the net and is marked with 10cm stripes of contrasting colour, usually red and white.

The 2.55m high posts are placed 0.50m‑­1.0m outside the side lines. The posts are rounded and fixed to the ground without wires.

Equipment

Runners/Court Shoes:

Any indoor athletic shoe is adequate for the beginner volleyball player, however, the use of runners versus court shoes can lead to more ankle sprains due to the higher heel height (made for shock absorption) in the runner

Socks:

Due to the repetitive motions required on the volleyball court, blisters are common, but you can avoid blisters by both choosing the correct shoes as well as the correct socks.

Knee Pads:

Knee pads are commonly worn by indoor volleyball players to protect the knee from the impact of the floor when diving for a ball or going down onto one knee when passing a ball.

Ankle Braces:

Ankle sprains occur often in volleyball due to the frequent action near the net with many players in a small space at one time

Hydration Gear:

Keeping hydrated will help you stay alert while playing volleyball. It may also help to prevent muscle cramps and will help your post game recovery.

Basic Skills

The six basic volleyball skills are passing, setting, spiking, blocking, digging, and serving.

Passing is often thought of as the most important skill in volleyball. If you can't pass the serve, then you won't ever put your team in a position to score a point.

The importance of serving is often undervalued. Many coaches don't teach players to serve aggressive and use this opportunity to give the team an advantage for scoring points.

Blocking is perhaps the least taught skill in volleyball. Players can get away with poor blocking skills because not blocking isn't going to hurt the team as much as being poor at executing other skills in volleyball.

Digging is another skill that isn't focused on quite as much as most skills in volleyball.

Rules of the Game

Basic Volleyball Rules

6 players on the floor at any one time - 3 in the front row and 3 in the back row

Maximum of 3 hits per side

Points are made on every serve for wining team of rally (rally-point scoring).

Player may not hit the ball twice in succession. (A block is not considered a hit.)

Ball may be played off the net during a volley and on a serve.

A ball hitting a boundary line is in.

A ball is out if it hits an antennae, the floor completely outside the court, any of the net or cables outside the antennae, the referee stand or pole, the ceiling above a non-playable area.

It is legal to contact the ball with any part of a player’s body.

It is illegal to catch, hold or throw the ball.

A player cannot block or attack a serve from on or inside the 10-foot line.

After the serve, front-line players may switch positions at the net.

Matches are made up of sets; the number depends on level of play. 3-set matches are 2 sets to 25 points and a third set to 15. Each set must be won by two points. The winner is the first team to win 2 sets. 5-set matches are 4 sets to 25 points and fifth set to 15. The team must win by 2 unless tournament rules dictate otherwise. The winner is the first team to win three sets.

Basic Volleyball Rule Violations

Rule violations that result in a point for the opponent

When serving, the player steps on or across the service line as while making contact with the ball.

Failure to serve the ball over the net successfully.

Ball-handling errors. Contacting the ball illegally (double touching, lifting, carrying, throwing, etc.)

Touching the net with any part of the body while the ball is in play.

When blocking a ball coming from the opponent’s court, it’s illegal to contact the ball when reaching over the net if both your opponent has not used 3 contacts AND they have a player there to make a play on the ball.

When attacking a ball coming from the opponent’s court, contacting the ball when reaching over the net is a violation if the ball has not yet broken the vertical plane of the net.

Crossing the court centerline with any part of your body is a violation. Exception: if it is the hand or foot. In this case, the entire hand or entire foot must cross for it to be a violation.

Serving out of rotation/order.

Back-row player blocking (deflecting a ball coming from the opponent) when, at the moment of contact, the back-row player is near the net and has part of his/her body above the top of the net. This is an illegal block.

Back-row player attacking a ball inside the front zone (the area inside the 3M/10-foot line) when, at the moment of contact, the ball is completely above the net. This is an illegal attack.

Officiating the Sport

Referees

The referee is the individual at the center of the court, dressed in black and white stripes. A referee’s duties include signaling when a rally begins and ends. The referee is responsible for officially recognizing team requests, substitutions, time-outs and communicating with the coaches at the appropriate times.

Scorekeeper

The scorekeeper creates official records of volleyball games.

Assistant Scorekeeper

The assistant scorekeeper or libero tracker is responsible for updating the scoreboard and keeping an eye on the libero.

Line Judges

These officials often use flags to signal when a ball is in or out, hits the antennae of the net, or when the server commits a foot fault, or steps outside the line as they serve.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

Bidding to end a 14-year medal drought, the Philippine women’s volleyball team starts its uphill SEA Games climb against dangerous Vietnam. The Philippine women’s volleyball team put up a good fight but Vietnam proved steadier in the deciding set to hack out a 21-25, 25-23, 25-19, 20-25, 15-8 decision in the 2019 Southeast Asian Games at the PhilSports Arena. Sill locked in a 6-all tie in the 5th set, the Filipinas got undone when the Vietnamese staged a game-sealing 7-1 run capped by back-to-back blocks on Alyssa Valdez to take a huge 13-7 lead. Valdez then ended the match as her crosscourt hit sailed out for the 15-8 finish The Filipinas, though, stunned the favored Vietnamese in the opening frame, 25-21, but the visitors came alive off the leadership of young star “T4” Thi Thanh Thuy Tran, escaping the 2nd set, 25-23, then taking the 3rd in convincing fashion, 25-19. The Philippines, however, then started off strong in its comeback attempt at the 4th, netting a 10-4 edge off the lead by Jovelyn Gonzaga and Valdez.  Although Vietnam tied it up, 13-all, the Philippines eventually ran away in the 4th, 25-20.  Vietnam then cranked up the defense in the final frame, with 4 of their first 6 points coming off blocks. T4 stamped her dominance on the Filipinas with a triple-double of 27 points, 13 digs and 13 receptions as Valdez led the losing effort with 22 markers.

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gm4kGC_d-i8

References:

AOC Volleyball. (2018, November  23). Retrieved from theartofcoachingvolleyball:  https://www.theartofcoachingvolleyball.com/basic-volleyball-rules-and-terminology/

Barclay. (n.d.).  Retrieved from barclayphysicaltherapy:  http://www.barclayphysicaltherapy.com/Sports-Activities/Volleyball/Guide-to-Selecting-Volleyball-Equipment/a~2855/article.html

Callaway, C.  (2011, August 17). SportsRec. Retrieved from SportsRec:  https://www.sportsrec.com/504918-how-to-officiate-a-game-of-volleyball.html

Kuhl, R. (2019,  July 12). DLGSC. Retrieved from dlgsc: https://www.dlgsc.wa.gov.au/sport-and-recreation/sports-dimensions-guide/volleyball#:~:text=The%20playing%20court%20is%2018m,high%20from%20the%20playing%20surface.

Michael Phelps wins 15th Gold - Men's 100m Butterfly | London 2012 Olympic Games

Swimming: A Sport

As a sport, swimming is way of propelling oneself through water using the limbs. This can be both an individual or a team sport. This sport includes four different types of styles: freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly where this takes place in pools or open water.

Court Dimensions

The type of pool used during this competition was a Long Course pool. This type of pool is normally found on college campuses or higher-end swimming facilities. The length of this type of pool is 50 metres or 164 feet. Its width is equivalent to the length of a short course swimming pool which is 25 metres. Can have 8 to 10 lanes having 2.5 metres as its width for each lane. The pool has a suggested depth of 6.6 feet or 2 metres. And on the higher-end swimming facilities, the temperature of the water should be at least 77 degrees Fahrenheit to 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

Equipment

Phelps was wearing a Speedo Speed Socket (goggles), and a speedo fastskin swimming cap. He was also wearing a racing suit designed for water games.

Basic Skills in Swimming

In swimming, all you really need to learn at first as a newbie are the strokes, kicking, breathing patterns, well-coordinated body movement, and floating on the surface of the water.

Rules of the Game

The Start

The start in Freestyle, Breaststroke, Butterfly and Individual Medley races shall be with a dive. On the long whistle from the referee the swimmers shall step onto the starting platform and remain there. On the starter's command "take your marks", they shall immediately take up a starting position with at least one foot at the front of the starting platforms. The position of the hands is not relevant. When all swimmers are stationary, the starter shall give the starting signal.

Freestyle

Freestyle means that in an event so designated the swimmer may swim any style, except that in individual medley or medley relay events, freestyle means any style other than backstroke, breaststroke or butterfly.

Backstroke

Prior to the starting signal, the swimmers shall line up in the water facing the starting end, with both hands holding the starting grips. Standing in or on the gutter or bending the toes over the lip of the gutter is prohibited. When using a backstroke ledge at the start, the toes of both feet must be in contact with the end wall or face of the touchpad. Bending the toes over the top of the touchpad is prohibited.

Breaststroke

After the start and after each turn, the swimmer may take one arm stroke completely back to the legs during which the swimmer may be submerged. At any time prior to the first Breaststroke kick after the start and after each turn a single butterfly kick is permitted. The head must break the surface of the water before the hands turn inward at the widest part of the second.

Butterfly

From the beginning of the first arm stroke after the start and each turn, the body shall be kept on the breast. It is not permitted to roll onto the back at any time, except at the turn after the touch of the wall where it is permissible to turn in any manner as long as the body is on the breast when leaving the wall.

Officiating a Swimming Competition

Referee

The referee shall have full control and authority over all officials, approve their assignments, and instruct them regarding all special features or regulations related to the competitions. He shall enforce all rules and decisions of FINA and shall decide all questions relating to the actual conduct of the meet, and event or the competition, the final settlement of which is not otherwise covered by the rules.

Control-Room Supervisor

Supervises the automatic timing operation including the review of video timing. He or she is responsible for checking the results from computer printouts.

Starter

Has full control of the swimmers from the time the referee turns the swimmers over to him until the race has commenced. The starter shall report a swimmer to the referee for delaying the start, for willfully disobeying an order or for any other misconduct taking place at the start, but only the referee may disqualify a swimmer for such delay, willful disobedience or misconduct.

Clerk of Course

Assembles swimmers prior to each event.

Inspector of Turns

Ensures that inspectors of turns fulfill their duties during the competition.

Judges of Stroke

Should be located on each side of the pool. Ensure that the rules related to the style of swimming designated for the event are being observed, and shall observe the turns and the finishes to assist the inspectors of turns.

Timekeeper

Assigns the seating positions for all timekeepers and the lanes for which they are responsible. It is advisable that there shall be three (3) timekeepers for each lane.

Finish Judges (if required)

Positioned in elevated stands in line with the finish where they have at all times a clear view of the course and the finish line, unless they operate an Automatic Officiating device in their respective assigned lanes by depressing the "push-button" at the completion of the race.

Officials’ Decision Making

Officials shall make their decision autonomously and independently of each other unless otherwise provided in the Swimming Rules.

Technical and Tactical Skills, and Analysis

For the 2012 Olympics Swimming event, Men’s 100m Butterfly, it was a question if Phelps could win the gold again. This was an individual swim for the greatest olympian of all time. On lane 4, after the breakout, he wasn’t first out of the water. Started off roughly at 5th place at the first 50 meters. But as everyone said, not to panic. Michael Phelps has endurance and has started to find form as that competition went on. After the turn for the finishing last lap, slowly, Michael Phelps gained speed, all swimmers coming in hard. It was a close fight and the question was answered. Michael Phelps did it again, won another gold medal in the Olympics crediting a time of 51.21 seconds.

This one-of-a-kind athlete has showed us what a true athlete is and what every athlete can be capable of. He has served as an inspiration to all of those who are striving to be the best of the best. People’s mindsets change every now and then. But Michael Phelps has always believed in himself which was the ultimate key to his glory. As what Michael Phelps has said, “You can’t put a limit to anything. The more you dream, the farther you get. If you say you “can’t” you are restricting what you can do, or ever will do. If you want to be the best, you have to do things that other people aren’t willing to do.”

Surround yourself with dreamers, the doers, the believers and the thinkers; but most of all surround yourself with those who see greatness within you even when you don’t see it yourself.

“Are contemporary people too much reliant on technology?”

           People these days clearly have or have heard of the technology that revolves around us today. If you don’t then I don’t know where you have been or what you have been doing. Just kidding. We all use technology since these things enable us to do activities easier and way faster than usual. Technology is more efficient wherein it also increases our capabilities in performing normal tasks which usually take more time than usual without the help of technology. So basically, technology was created in order for us to have our own comforts when doing different everyday type of things. It made our lives much easier in ways we can’t even comprehend. It helps us with our society especially during the pandemic. Imagine the pandemic without any internet. How would we handle these types of situations without the use of the media or technology in general, and now we have gotten used to technology so much that we tend to ask ourselves if we could or couldn’t live without it.

           As a member of the Gen Z (Generation Z) I can say that we really are digitally transformed as others may say. We grew up with a gadget in our hands. We have integrated technology into our everyday realities, virtual realities. With technology, this has increased connectivity with the outside world but also increased depression and suicide and changed how Gen Zers perceive themselves. But they also allow Gen Zers to shut out the outside world and live within online communities and echo chambers. So are we addicted to this thing called phones or do we use technology to have an extension in our lives? Do escape from the cruel reality?

           Yes, contemporary people are too much reliant on technology. We tend to abuse technology at times. Because of the emergence of technology, we tend to lose the ability to do things in a natural way. In ways that we used to live. Kids nowadays won’t be able to experience the outdoor playing since they are too mesmerized by what the screen of an iPad is showing them. Modern technology has helped man in every part of his life. It gives them peace, anger, comfort, and many other feelings that either make them feel whole or make them emptier, depends on what they perceive themselves as. But yes, we have been too reliant on technology because without it, I can’t imagine the world working the way it is working right now. Such devices now have been known to control the world in every single part of it. We depend on it too much to the point that it has to be part of our everyday lifestyle. And now we are too much attached to it and we can never let go of technology no where in the future.

References:

https://xenlife.com.au/are-we-being-too-dependent-on-technology/#:~:text=on%20the%20poll.-,YES,becoming%20too%20dependent%20on%20technology.&text=%E2%80%9CThe%20world%20is%20evolving%20to,organic%20and%20all%20natural%20way.

https://www.voanews.com/student-union/gen-z-born-be-digital

https://pbmainstream.com/1290/opinions/do-we-depend-too-much-on-technology/

TYPES OF SPEECH

SPEECH 1: NELSON MANDELA: Freedom and Justice

Mandela was awarded an honorary degree during a special ceremony held at Harvard in September 1998. He established a dialogue, or a speech about encouraging communication about past abuses without taking revenge, created new relationships among people, and was focused on economic empowerment for the black majority. The type of speech according to the purpose was Exploratory or Informative. Mandela was able to achieve the purpose of informing the audience since with the speech or dialogue that he created was very moving and talked about a controversial problem that America or the Africans have witnessed in the past, many American have been flourished with what Mandela had to say. He informed the people that this nation could develop further if they would be united instead of divided wherein they would all build an understanding of the Americans of the African reality. The manner of delivery of this speech was Reading from a manuscript which was very formal and fully written out which gave Mandela greater control of the wording of the speech and has embellished his thoughts well how he wanted to deliver them.

SPEECH 2: EMMA WATSON: Gender Equality

Emma Watson launched a movement in September 2014 as a Global Goodwill Ambassador called the HeForShe campaign, where she held a speech mainly focusing on feminism and gender equality. She wanted to point out that men need to be just as involved in the path to gender equality as women are. She presented her argument in a clear and articulate manner which convinces for the increased role of men making a change in gender inequality. The type of speech according to purpose is Persuasive. Emma Watson achieved the purpose of persuading the audience about the HeForShe campaign and what she stands for. She gave out well explained comparisons and contrasts on how females were actually feminists on how inequal genders are based. In the end, she evokes strong support from the audience by showing that inequality of the gender is real and can happen to anyone, regardless of who they are. The manner of delivery of the speech was Memorized. Emma Watson had no copies of whatever she was about to say. It was clearly a fully written out speech which she had memorized and practiced since she really wanted people to know how dedicated she is to this topic and to the HeForShe campaign.

SPEECH 3: 2016 World Champion of Public Speaking, Darren Tay Wen Jie

Mga Ifugao

Ang mga Ifugao ay isang pangkat ng mga basing-bigas na magsasaka na sumasakop sa mabundok na lugar sa Hilagang Luzon ng Pilipinas. Sila ay stock ng Malay at ang kanilang wika ay Austronesian o Malayo-Polynesian. Naitala nila ang halos 70,000 noong 1939, ngunit binawasan ng World War II ang kanilang populasyon ng higit na 50,000 na tao. Sa huling bahagi ng ika-20 siglo, ang kanilang populasyon ay tumaas hanggang sa 190,000.

Ang Ifugao ay nagiging popular dahil sa lugar doon na tinawag na “Banaue Rice Terraces.” Dito, may Sistema ng mga patubig na terraces ng bigas sa nga bundok dito, na nilikha higit sa 2000 taon na an gnakalilipas ng mga taong Ifugao. Ito ay ang kanilang sentro ng kultura dahil ang kanilang kultura ay umiikot sa kanilang palay na isinaalang-alang na isang prestihiyo na ani. Mayroong isang detlayadong at kumplikadong hanay ng mga pagdiriwang ng kultur ng bigas na hindi maiuugnay na nauugnay sa mga bawal at masalimuot na mga ritwal sa agrikultura, mula sa paglilinang ng bigas hanggang sa pagkonsumo ng bigas ng mga Ifugao. Kaya ang palay ay nagiging isang prestihiyo na kultura dahil ito ay sumasalamin sa ganap na paghahalo ng pisikil, sosyo-kultura, pang-ekonomiya, relihiyoso, at pampulitikang kapaligiran sa mga Ifugao.

Ang relihiyon ng Ifugao ay may isang detlayadong kosmolohiya at higit sa isang libong mga diyos ng iba’t ibang klase. Ang mga ninuno at iba pang mga diyos ay tinawag sa kaso ng karamdaman o iba pang mga paghihirap sa tulong ng bigas na alak at pagdiriwang. Ang tradisyonal na relihiyon ng mga Ifugao ay kumilala ng mahigit ng 1,500 pinangalanang diyos na nahahati sa 35 na mga kategorya na nauugnay. Ang bawat isa naman ay nagtataglay ng mga tiyak na katangian at kapangyarihan.

Ang kanilang wika na ginagamit ay tinatawag na Batad na kung saan ito ay isang Malayo-Polynesian language na ginagamit sa hilagang mga lambak ng Ifugao. Ito ay isang miyembro ng pamilya ng Hilagang Luzon at malapit na nauugnay sa mga wikang bontoc at Kankanaey.

Ang Ifugao ay nakatira lamang sa maliit na nayon ng 5 hanggang 10 na bahay na nakakalat sa mga terraces ng bigas. Ang mga unang misyonero ng Espanya ay humanga sa pagtatayo ng mga bahay ng Ifugao dahil ito ay nakamit ng mga Ifugao nang walang lagari o iba oang mga kagamitan panggawa.

Effective Communication

Korina Sanchez has excellent verbal skills which is very needed as a news anchor. Her written, improvisational, and interviewing skills are very imperative too since as news anchors need to be able to think on their feet and she as a news anchor was able to do that. But Korina Sanchez was said to be a “biased” news anchor and journalist which everyone hated about her which cost her job.

Her speaking and her communication was very effective since she really shows that she has confidence while reporting, she clearly planned her lines in a very appropriate manner, she clearly practiced a lot of times before going live on the news, she seems to really engage with her audience to catch our attention, her body language was not stiff nor too drowsy which didn’t give any unnecessary attention, and she doesn’t give off any nervous vibes which makes her a very effective communicator or news anchor.

The King’s Speech

The King’s Speech is a story about British King George IV and his personal struggle to control his stuttering. For the King, dealing with this ‘stammering’ was really a constant struggle internally, physically, sociologically, and socially. Many times during this movie, I experienced the King’s anger, pain, humiliation, and self doubts about his abilities and manhood as he stutters. This is a story about a King gaining fluency with the help of a speech therapist.

In a quarrelling scene between him and his brother, King Edward VIII (Guy Pierce), the King shows his stuttering poses when he is unable to respond verbally to his brother’s mockery of his stuttering. He then shows tears, pain, and humiliation in this scene. The King’s vocabulary size was very much limited since he has severe stuttering, which then led to the point of miscommunication between the speaker and the audience, which disrupted the flow of communication, and its elements.

The immense pressure to perform on the world stage is today a common experience for senior figures in politics and business. It is their duty to inspire an audience. These high expectations for performance is the reason for these kind of problems. It was the fear of stammering in public that made matters worse. Like King George, most of us communicate pretty well when we are relaxed and in our own conversational comfort zone. He used singing as a way to calm down and a way to stop stammering. It can take concentration, practice, and determination to be ‘yourself’ when the pressure is on. But if we focus and maintain, we will be less distracted by the fear of failure, a stammer or poor performance and we can meet and exceed the expectations of our audience.

“The Art of Communication”

By Jimmy Nelson

The concept that I think of Jimmy Nelson is that he dreams of uniting culture and environment while giving it the highest level of respect. He had to walk two weeks through a valley to have an experience and to share it with others. He used communication through visuality. As we can see he showed photos of what he saw, which made it possible for them to communicate even though with the huge language border.

Jimmy Nelson should be an inspiration to many of the kids of this generation, because what he had just shown to us tells us that communication is an Art. Genuine conversations are from heart to heart communications. Communication isn’t easily acquired. It is brought onto yourself in a very detailed manner. He showed to us that communication is more than just through your mouth, but it can also go through your emotions.