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THE BEAUTIFUL GAME? SEARCHING FOR THE SOUL OF FOOTBALL

David Conn (Published by Yellow Jersey Press 2005 ) www.randomhouse.co.uk

Politics and sports don't mix so many politicos would have you believe, but a few recent books about sports are a breath of fresh air for those of us who are political and love our sport. David Conn 'The Beautiful Game? Searching for the Soul of Football' is a meticulously researched dig at the footballing elite who have grabbed all the riches of football while the smaller clubs fight for their survival. But the book isn't just an attack on the wealthy, but also has chapters about how some clubs are trying to do the right thing, as well as articles on Supporters Trusts and fans owned clubs like AFC Wimbledon. There are pieces on Positive Futures schemes and other community football initiatives, and how football is usually the one thing that kids labelled as anti-social respond too. As one of those women involved in Positive Futures put it about the top clubs “I do think they have forgotten about their communities. Perhaps they've forgotten an important part of what sport is. Certainly they've lost sight of providing access. There is so much good they could do; football is still the most attractive activity for our young people, a great way in to addressing some of society's problems.” This book is a must read for any discerning footie fan.

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