At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA’s gymnastics squad embraced a furry emotional coach: Beacon, a four-year-old Golden Retriever trained as a therapy dog. Deployed to help mitigate performance anxiety, Beacon spent up to 15 hours a day by athletes’ sides, engaging in stress-relieving snuggles and quiet companionship. His presence lowered anxiety and cortisol levels,…
amicitaacademy.com – Muhammad Ali, often hailed as “The Greatest,” is an iconic figure not only in the world of boxing but in the broader sports world as well. Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990, his influence and legacy extend far beyond the boxing ring. Here’s a look at the life, career,…
Athlete burnout is more than exhaustion—it’s a silent threat to both mental well-being and sporting careers. Defined by emotional and physical exhaustion, a sense of reduced accomplishment and sport devaluation, athlete burnout is increasingly identified in elite and developing athletes alike. For example, recent research indicates that while only 1-5 % of elite athletes may…
amicitaacademy.com – Chelsea Football Club, based in Fulham, London, is one of the most storied and successful teams in English football. Founded in 1905, the club has grown from humble beginnings into a global football powerhouse. With a rich history and strong traditions, Chelsea remains an iconic name in the sport. Founding and Early Years…
amicitaacademy.com – In MotoGP, the rear wing—part of the sport’s aerodynamic evolution—has reshaped performance since its rise in the late 2010s. Inspired by Formula 1, these devices, often called “aero appendages,” are mounted above the rear wheel to enhance downforce, stability, and speed. Ducati pioneered their use in 2016, sparking a tech race among manufacturers…
Media coverage plays a pivotal role in shaping the public image of athletes and the popularity of sports, influencing both cultural perception and commercial value. A recent study highlights that sports media not only report events but frame narratives around athletes—casting them as heroes, villains or underdogs—which directly impacts how fans view the sport and…
While much focus in historical performance lies in music and drama, a fascinating niche has emerged: the recreation of ancient Greek athletics. Far from being mere sporting events, athletic competitions like the Olympic Games were integral to Greek cultural, religious, and political life. Today, historians and reenactors are bringing these traditions back to life through…
amicitaacademy.com – The 24 Hours of Le Mans, known in French as Les 24 Heures du Mans, stands as one of the most iconic and challenging motorsport events in the world. Held annually in the town of Le Mans, France, this race has been a pinnacle of endurance racing since its inception in 1923. Over…
In March 2024, Jasmin Paris, a British ultra-runner, made history by becoming the first woman ever to complete the Barkley Marathons—one of the toughest and most mysterious endurance races in the world. Known for its brutal terrain, minimal support, and secretive format, the Barkley Marathons has seen fewer than 20 finishers since its inception in…
Chioma Ajunwa’s journey from the streets of Umuihiokwu, Nigeria, to the pinnacle of Olympic glory is a testament to resilience and determination. Born on December 25, 1970, Ajunwa initially showcased her athletic prowess in football, representing Nigeria at the 1991 FIFA Women’s World Cup. However, it was in track and field where she etched her…
