The Winning Mind: This book has been written by a layman and sports fanatic (have I mentioned that already?) to enhance (hopefully) the performance ... those of my beloved New South Africa.

"Sport is like good sex, enjoyable when you're doing it, great when you're winning, but even when you're losing it still beats work." - Sure does! Author's Note: In spite of the statement on the previous page, to me sport is my one great passion**. Not in the playing (because I'm a bit clumsy and very unsporty); but in the watching thereof (that sounds very stilted and formal - "ye olde English"). For me watching all types of live sport is an inherently emotional experience - more so being at the actual event or seeing it through the marvel of television, as it is happening. Sport has it all: from the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat, the frustration of failure to the high satisfaction of success. For me, watching live sport is like being at the theatre: it has all the drama and tragedy of the human experience rolled into one. Being a totally "unarty farty" type, I see sport as being far more volatile than the arts; because of the direct competition between opponents. Sport is extremely challenging, which is why the psychology of sport is so important. It has been said that "sport is a celebration of one's ability and potential". (adapted from Sport Motivation by Ken Hodge Ph.D Reed Books New Zealand 1994) ** Other than/in addition to my dear wife and children ...of course. (inserted with wife standing over me with kitchen-knife in the one hand and broom-handle in the other!). DEDICATION: This work is dedicated to all those great sportsmen that I have been privileged to see performing their vast array of skills, mainly on television... but some in person. But especially to the South African cricket and rugby football teams, who have given me so much pleasure in recent years (particularly since the readmittance of the cricket team to the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 1992). In addition, the administrators of cricket like Ali Bacher, Steve Tshwete and Krish Mackerduj in the Republic, who have been at the forefront for many many years in promoting a fairer sporting environment in South Africa. These men have done so much for their country - to unite a very divided and fragmented society through the sheer/sublime joy of sport. This work is also dedicated to my beloved family, whose present and future happiness means so much to me. You have made each day a joyous happening for me. Oh well, it's your fate that you have to live with me each day. At least life isn't dull... though I often "stuff up"as I'm only human! To all the sportsmen throughout the world, you have given me a great deal of pleasure over the years...and I'm sure many others too. Thanks for all the memories. THANKS To me...and me alone for doing this "great" work all on my "little lonesome": the research, the writing and the laborious hours and hours of checking. However, it has been most enjoyable as a labour of love - in that I am fortunate enough to have found my passion and hopefully my "life's mission". For this thanks to my beloved wife, Marie. Even bringing me to tranquil provincial New Zealand to give me the time and space to write. The peace of mind and inspiration to "keep on keeping on" writing this and many other works came from my heart...and God. No more religion in this book, please!