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Interviewer: It’s been a year since EA transitioned from the FIFA branding to EA Sports FC for their flagship football game. How was this change received at launch?

Keith Stuart: The rebrand did see a slight dip in sales—around 5%—but interestingly, profits increased. This was largely due to the success of the Ultimate Team feature, which continues to be a significant revenue driver for EA.

Interviewer: Now, looking at EA Sports FC 25, what differentiates this version from its predecessor?

Keith Stuart: While it doesn’t introduce any groundbreaking innovations, EA Sports FC 25 offers some exciting enhancements. Last year focused on HyperMotion2 animation technology, and this year’s highlight is FC IQ. This feature deepens the strategic gameplay, allowing players to customize their teams and individual players’ approaches. For instance, you can adjust a player’s aggressiveness, like Saka at Arsenal, instructing the AI to prioritize offensive runs over defensive responsibilities.

Interviewer: That sounds like a compelling addition. Can you share more about the gameplay modes available in this edition?

Keith Stuart: Of course! It retains familiar modes like Manager and Player Careers, Seasons, Tournaments, and Clubs. The new standout mode is Rush, which takes over from the previous street football option, Volta. Rush presents a fast-paced five-a-side format that emphasizes quick passes and targeted play. Ultimate Team is back as well, featuring minor updates but maintaining the addictive format that fans love.

Interviewer: What’s the gameplay experience like in terms of graphics and animations?

Keith Stuart: The graphics and animation engine has undergone a significant upgrade, resulting in a visually stunning and immersive experience. Player movements are smooth, with dynamic responses to the ball creating a richer gameplay feel. I played several matches with my sons, and we really noticed how distinct each team felt—attacking with Juventus was a different experience compared to playing with Real Madrid, which was very apparent this time around.

Interviewer: What were some memorable moments for you while playing as the star players?

Keith Stuart: Playing as elite players like Foden, Haaland, or De Bruyne is truly exhilarating. You can really feel their unique traits; for example, Foden’s acceleration is remarkable. There are moments in gameplay where executing skillful moves with players like Jamal Musiala or Aitana Bonmatí feels almost genius-level—similar to the thrill of mastering complex combos in classic fighting games.

Interviewer: Did you encounter any technical issues during your gameplay?

Keith Stuart: Unfortunately, yes. I experienced some graphical glitches, like overlapping HUD text and awkward player collisions during chaotic goal scenarios—it felt a bit surreal, like a scene out of a Cronenberg film. The first-person camera, which lets you see through players’ or even the referee’s eyes, can also be a bit disorienting at times.

Interviewer: Would you say EA Sports FC 25 represents a significant advancement over its predecessor?

Keith Stuart: It’s more of an evolution than a revolution. To fully appreciate the new technical features, players will need to explore the complex pre-match menu systems, which might not cater to everyone. Additionally, Ultimate Team continues to face scrutiny regarding its in-game purchase mechanics.

Interviewer: Lastly, who would you recommend this game to?

Keith Stuart: If you enjoy playing with updated rosters and stats or perhaps missed the last edition, EA Sports FC 25 will definitely keep you entertained for hours. It has high aspirations and, more often than not, meets them. It’s set to launch on September 27 across various platforms, including PC, PS4/5, Switch, and Xbox One/Series X.

On October 25 in Hangzhou, a press conference was held to discuss the city’s community embedded service facilities initiative. Xu Zhen, a member of the Hangzhou Development and Reform Commission’s leading party group and deputy director, shared insights on the ambitious plans for these community service projects.

“This year, we have launched the first batch of 46 pilot projects for embedded service facilities across urban communities, with all of them already underway. By the end of the year, we aim to complete 30 of these projects,” Xu stated. “Looking ahead, we plan to initiate over 54 new pilot projects next year, with the goal of fulfilling our target within two years. By 2026, we hope to have a total of more than 100 completed pilot projects.”

Xu explained that these embedded service facilities are designed to provide a variety of functional amenities and services within community spaces. These services include elder care, community meal assistance, housekeeping, health services, sports and fitness programs, cultural leisure activities, and children’s recreation.

In an effort to become a national pilot city, Hangzhou introduced the “Implementation Plan for Community Embedded Service Facility Construction” back in March of this year. The results are already becoming evident across various sectors.

The integration of elder care into the community embedded service facility construction is a significant move to strengthen home and community-based elderly services. Currently, Hangzhou boasts over 2,900 community elder care centers that provide a range of services including day care, full-time care, and meal assistance. Additionally, more than 2,200 meal assistance points have been established, collectively serving over 18 million people through the “All City Connected” smart meal service.

Another challenge that has been noted is the lack of facilities for infant and toddler care, coupled with a reliance on grandparental support and limited awareness of scientific parenting concepts. In response, Hangzhou has pioneered the “Infant and Toddler Growth Station,” a community embedded service designed to enrich the growth environment for young children and their caregivers. This station offers comprehensive services such as parenting skill guidance, parent-child game engagement, health management, and temporary childcare.

“As of now, we have established 735 Infant and Toddler Growth Stations, and we are implementing local standards for their management and service,” stated Cui Weiwu, deputy director of the Hangzhou Health Commission.

Since the Hangzhou Asian Games, the enthusiasm for fitness among residents has been on the rise. Over the last two years, the city has developed 5,420 embedded sports venues, covering an area of 1.832 million square meters, effectively addressing the public’s concerns about accessible places to exercise.

For instance, the Wanguo Interchange in the Linping District, once merely a green space, has been transformed into a multifunctional sports facility that accommodates football, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, and gateball.

Qiu Xianzhong, a second-level inspector at the Hangzhou Sports Bureau, highlighted the next steps: “We will encourage and guide capable government agencies and enterprises to open up their facilities for public use. We aim to establish new embedded sports facilities in well-positioned areas and enhance management efficiency through smart technology like fitness traffic sensors and unmanned equipment. Furthermore, we are committed to hosting various fitness events and activities for the community, such as the People’s Sports Meeting, ‘Village BA’ tournaments, and promoting national sports in neighborhoods.”

Recently, the NYPD issued a warning to the Chinese community in Sunset Park, particularly targeting elderly women, about the rise in scams orchestrated by a group known as the “Fortune-Offering Gang.” In different time frames and neighborhoods, the tactics used by scammers continue to evolve, creating an ongoing concern for residents.

The 72nd Precinct, which covers the heavily populated Chinese neighborhood in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park, released an announcement urging residents to be cautious of these scammers. According to police, the gang consists of Mandarin and Cantonese-speaking women, typically in their 30s to 40s. They often work in small groups and deceive individuals by claiming they can perform rituals to ward off misfortune and protect their families. The police reported that many Chinese women, particularly the elderly, have fallen victim to this deceit, losing money and jewelry in the process.

Authorities emphasize the importance of not trusting anyone who claims they can magically solve problems or alleviate misfortunes. Residents are advised to never hand over their belongings to strangers. Furthermore, should anyone experience similar incidents, they are encouraged to discuss them with family members and report any scams to the police immediately.

In a related alert, the 120th Precinct, which serves the northern areas of Staten Island with a significant Chinese population, recently warned residents about “donation scams.” Officers advised vigilance if approached on the street by individuals soliciting donations for various organizations, sports teams, schools, or charitable events. Scammers often request payments through apps like Zelle, Venmo, or Cash App, and may ask for the donor’s phone number when entering their information. While the would-be donors are distracted, the fraudsters could swiftly transfer large sums of money from their bank accounts into their own.

The police urge potential donors to never share their phone numbers with strangers, to set transfer limits when using financial apps, and to promptly call 911 if they suspect they have been scammed.

On October 12-13, 2024, the National Jump Rope Championship (Wenzhou Leqing Station) took place at the Leqing Sports Center Gymnasium.

The opening ceremony featured several distinguished guests, including Yang Shande, President of the China Jianzi Association and Director of the National Jump Rope Promotion Committee; Zhang Wenwei, member of the Wenzhou Sports Bureau; Liao Kaifeng, Deputy Director of the Leqing Municipal People’s Congress; Chen Yanghui, Deputy Director of the National Jump Rope Promotion Committee; Chen Lei, Deputy Director of the Leqing Municipal Government Office; Zhou Jing, Director of the Leqing Sports Development Center; Cai Yingmin, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Jump Rope Promotion Committee; Li Yindong, member of the Leqing Cultural, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Sports Bureau; and Feng Xiaoqiao, Chairman of Zhejiang Deyi Tianwen Sports Development Co., Ltd.

During the welcome speech, Director Zhou highlighted that the National Jump Rope Championship, established in 2014 by the General Administration of Sport of China and the China Jianzi Association, has grown into a premier national event with the most extensive program offerings and participation scale. Leqing aims to become a “City of Events,” and the local government is keen on advancing sports and its associated industries. Since hosting a national jump rope competition in 2018, the city has seen a surge in jumping venues, fostering a vibrant jump rope culture.

This event marked the fifth stop of the National Jump Rope Championship series in Leqing, holding significant importance for the ongoing development of high-quality sports events, facilities, and initiatives in the city. It also aligns with national goals to enhance public health and well-being while nurturing future jump rope talents, contributing to building a modern sports powerhouse in the province.

This year’s competition introduced several exciting changes.

Firstly, the event featured a diverse range of categories. Tailored for jump rope enthusiasts aged seven and older, the competition included various events such as counting races, freestyle events, performances, designated competitions, DDC interactive rope contests, and traditional specialties—totaling six major categories with 33 sub-events. The freestyle category aligns with international standards, presenting elite-level competitions for individuals, pairs, and teams. This approach aims to cultivate talent for China’s national jump rope team through competitive practice.

In a move to promote inclusivity, the competition added a Special Education Category, catering to children and adolescents with disabilities, such as blindness or hearing impairment. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to humane values but also provides these individuals with a platform to shine in the athletic world, boosting their confidence and sense of identity.

Moreover, the awards structure expanded to include individual, team, organizational, and regional annual accolades, emphasizing inspired participation aiming for “higher, faster, stronger—together.” Additional awards were also established for sportsmanship, best team spirit, and individual ambassadors to promote the event further.

The introduction of an electronic scoring system enhanced the spectator experience. Judges utilized tablets to input scores, which were displayed in real-time on LED screens, increasing transparency and excitement for both the audience and participants.

The event attracted around 600 competitors from 65 teams across 13 provinces, including members of the Chinese national jump rope team set to participate in the 2024 Asian Jump Rope Championships, as well as newcomers eager to make their mark.

Notably, the seventh-grade students from Beibaixiang Town’s Primary School made their national competition debut. Coach Ye Zeguang shared that the aim was for the kids to gain firsthand experience in the world of jump rope, fuel their motivations, and prepare for the 10-person long rope competition scheduled for 2025.

Participants included Chen Jiaxin and her teammates from Guangdong, who previously claimed multipleAsian gold medals. Coach Mai Xianping anticipated a more extensive array of events while expressing the hope for zero errors during their performances, with Chen aiming to surpass her previous achievement of 226 skips in 30 seconds.

Beyond being a sports competition, this event also showcased the integration of sports and tourism. Participants enjoyed discounts at local attractions while experiencing the stunning natural beauty of Yandang Mountain.

The championship was guided by the Zhejiang Provincial Sports Bureau, organized by the China Jianzi Association and co-organized by various local sports and government entities, including the Leqing Sports Development Center and the Leqing Cultural and Tourism Bureau.

On the evening of October 26, the 8th Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament and the Guangxi Community Sports Games kicked off in Fangchenggang City. In a unique collaboration, ASEAN international students and the local Fangchenggang representatives exchanged players to form the China-ASEAN Friendship Team and the China-ASEAN Unity Team for the competition. Additionally, on October 27, a friendly match took place in Dongxing City, featuring a basketball team from Vietnam competing against local players.

This year marks the China-ASEAN Cultural Exchange Year, with the event welcoming representatives from ASEAN countries. The basketball games serve as a platform for trade and cultural interaction, enhancing sports and cultural exchanges between Guangxi and ASEAN nations while continuing a long-standing friendship.

Former national basketball player and member of the Chinese Basketball Hall of Fame, Hu Weidong, officiated the opening game. Reflecting on the event, he emphasized that “sports have no borders.” Recognizing the proximity of Fangchenggang to Vietnam, he suggested inviting Vietnamese basketball fans to Guangxi for the “Village BA” event, promoting friendship through sports and skill exchange. He expressed hope that this tournament would draw more attention to rural development.

In recent years, Fangchenggang City has been actively improving its public service system for 全民健身 (national fitness). Chen Wenzhi, deputy director of the Fangchenggang Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Sports, and Tourism, noted that the region has hosted the Vietnam-Mang Street Lantern Festival football friendly match for 29 years and will soon hold the China-ASEAN Marathon, expecting participation from 20,000 individuals.

The Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament has gained popularity, igniting a fitness craze across the region. Since the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan, Guangxi has allocated approximately 1.1 billion yuan to support the construction of 1,430 sports facilities. Currently, sports facilities in communities and administrative villages cover 100% of the region, establishing a preliminary fitness circle within a 15-minute reach for urban communities.

The 8th Guangxi Wan Village Basketball Tournament’s city-level event is co-hosted by the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region’s Publicity Department, Sports Bureau, Ethnic and Religious Affairs Commission, Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Commerce Department, Culture and Tourism Department, and the People’s Government of Fangchenggang City.

As airports increasingly streamline traffic, one surprising measure has garnered attention: Dunedin International Airport in New Zealand has implemented a three-minute limit on farewell hugs in its drop-off zone. Passengers wishing for longer goodbyes are encouraged to head to the car park instead. This policy contrasts sharply with Heathrow Airport’s approach, where passengers are welcomed to take as much time as they need for their farewells, as signaled by new depictions in the departures area that promote “unlimited hug time.”

This emphasis on hugging isn’t just about keeping the airport moving; it’s grounded in science. Experts highlight the numerous physical and psychological benefits associated with embraces. “Hugging is a fundamental way we bond socially,” says Professor Robin Dunbar, an evolutionary psychologist from the University of Oxford. He explains that the act of hugging activates a specialized neural system in our skin, triggered by gentle, rhythmic touch. This can lead to the release of endorphins, inducing feelings of calm and relaxation.

Moreover, the positive effects of hugs extend beyond comfort. Professor Michael Banissy, a social neuroscientist, points out that receiving and giving hugs can enhance our immune response. In one notable study from Carnegie Mellon University, researchers found that individuals who received regular hugs were less susceptible to common cold viruses and experienced milder symptoms if they did fall ill. Another study indicated that women who hugged their partners before a stressful experience had lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone.

Banissy emphasizes the relevance of hugs in high-stress environments like airports, where anxiety can run high. “The three-minute guideline is intriguing because the hormonal benefits of hugging can be realized in just a few minutes,” he notes. However, he does caution against the potential stiffness that a time limit might impose, as the context of the touch is crucial. If the hugging experience feels forced or uncomfortable, the emotional and psychological benefits may diminish.

To understand the nuances of hugging, we can categorize different types:

1. **Quick Squeeze**: Commonly known as the “crisscross hug,” where arms intertwine around each other’s shoulders or waists. Studies suggest that hugs lasting between five to ten seconds are optimal for comfort and emotional connection.

2. **Engulfing Hug**: This more intimate embrace offers comfort in challenging times and is typically reserved for deep emotional support.

3. **Bear Hug**: A spontaneous, tight squeeze often exchanged in celebratory contexts, such as reunions or achievements.

4. **Sporty Shoulder Press**: A more casual approach seen in team sports where physical gestures like this enhance team cohesion and performance.

5. **Global Leader Hug**: Politicians hugging can seem awkward under scrutiny, yet research indicates that even brief physical touches can bolster cooperation and trust in professional settings.

6. **Self-Hug**: For those without a companion, self-hugging—placing hands over one’s own heart or belly—can replicate the calming benefits of a hug from another person. Research shows this self-soothing gesture also reduces stress hormone levels.

In light of these insights, experts suggest considering hugs as natural expressions of connection and comfort. So the next time you say goodbye, whether in an airport or elsewhere, remember that a simple embrace carries significant emotional weight—and sometimes, a little extra time can make all the difference.

Bear Mountain State Park is a perfect getaway for New Yorkers looking for a short trip, just over an hour’s drive from the city. This natural reserve boasts breathtaking scenery and a rich history, making it an ideal destination for busy city dwellers seeking relaxation.

The park’s name derives from its terrain, which resembles a bear lying on its stomach. Early inhabitants noted the mountain’s shape, leading them to associate it with a bear and thus name it Bear Mountain.

Established in 1910, Bear Mountain State Park was born out of New York’s conservation movement. At that time, ecological threats loomed due to industrial development. Fortunately, entrepreneur George W. Perkins and other conservationists advocated for the park’s creation, ensuring the preservation of this invaluable natural resource for public enjoyment.

Hiking routes in Bear Mountain are not overly strenuous, catering to visitors of varying fitness levels. One of the park’s most popular trails is the Bear Mountain Loop Trail, which spans approximately 3.8 miles. The clearly marked path is easy to navigate, complete with stone steps that facilitate a comfortable hike.

As you ascend, the views through the trees gradually open up. After a brief but steep climb, reaching the summit rewards hikers with stunning vistas of the Hudson Valley. At the top of Bear Mountain, visitors can marvel at the majestic landscape where the Hudson River weaves through the valley.

On clear days, the skyscrapers of Manhattan can be seen on the distant horizon, creating a striking contrast with the expansive natural surroundings. The iconic skyline stands out vividly against the backdrop of nature, offering a unique experience of being in the embrace of the wilderness while gazing at the city’s hustle and bustle.

After reaching the summit, visitors can explore Perkins Memorial Tower, built in 1934 to honor Perkins’ significant contributions to preserving the area’s natural resources. Inside the tower, exhibits showcase the history of Bear Mountain State Park and the conservation movement.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bear Mountain State Park features several historical landmarks. The Bear Mountain Inn, a notable structure within the park, has welcomed countless visitors since 1915. Its stone facade harmonizes with the surrounding environment, providing accommodations and dining options.

Restored to maintain its historical character, the inn is now an essential part of the Bear Mountain experience. Guests can enjoy comfortable lodging, and visit the gift shop and café for added enjoyment during their stay.

In the spring and summer, the area around Bear Mountain Inn allows for various activities such as boating and fishing, enhancing the outdoor experience. During the winter, ice skating and skiing become the park’s highlights, attracting winter sports enthusiasts.

Additionally, for those interested in delving deeper into Bear Mountain’s history, the Trailside Museums & Zoo is a must-visit. This center showcases the area’s rich ecosystem, featuring exhibits on local wildlife and geography, making it a valuable educational resource for visitors.

For families, the center offers interactive exhibits that engage children, allowing them to observe animal specimens and participate in nature tours to foster an understanding of environmental conservation.

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Bear Mountain. From New York City, the journey takes about an hour, with ample parking available at the park. Alternatively, visitors can take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Penn Station to Peakskill and then transfer to a bus or taxi to the park. For more details, including directions and activities, visit the official website at https://visitbearmountain.com/.

On October 21, during an interview, Research Manager Huang Mei from the China Personnel Science Research Institute highlighted the rapid growth of the digital economy in China, which has significantly empowered the innovation within the culture and tourism sectors. She noted that the rise of digital tourism is poised to reshape the landscape of the travel industry.

Huang emphasized the current demand for talent in digital tourism, which reflects both expansion and quality enhancement. However, the supply side faces a dual challenge characterized by a shortage of quantity and skills. Gayane Gabrielyan, the Deputy Minister of the Environment of Armenia, underscored that, in today’s globalized and digital era, the deep integration of culture and tourism serves not only as a new engine for economic growth but also as a vital means for cultural preservation.

At the 2024 Shanghai Business School “Pan-Tourism Hotel” International Scholars Forum and the inaugural Academic Forum for Graduate Students in Tourism Management, scholars from various institutions worldwide engaged in discussions on the industry’s development. Wu Zhong, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee and President of Shanghai Business School, expressed hope that the forum would foster collaboration and communication among global scholars, exploring the role of new productive forces in the integration of culture, tourism, and hotel management. This, he believes, will enhance understanding, ignite ideas, broaden perspectives, and strengthen cooperation.

Chen Zheng, Director of the Five-Star Care Special Fund under the China Caring for the Next Generation Health Sports Foundation, emphasized the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration among experts to explore how to integrate sustainable development concepts into tourism management. He highlighted the aim of achieving a harmonious balance between economic, social, and environmental benefits.

Zheng Jie, a doctoral student at Iowa State University, spotlighted the critical role of big data in the digital transformation of the culture and tourism industries. He pointed out its catalytic effects on innovation in the travel sector. Zheng proposed strategies such as utilizing topic modeling to delve deeper into tourism content and leveraging sentiment analysis to accurately capture visitor feedback. He also stressed the importance of integrating large and small data, enhancing the combination of structured and unstructured data, while reinforcing user privacy protection to ensure the sustainable development of the tourism industry.

Cross-cultural tourism services emerged as a focal topic at the forum. Deputy Minister Gabrielyan elaborated on Armenia’s rich history and its geographical diversity, which contributes to a unique climate and landscape. She highlighted that the Armenian language and its alphabet have remained nearly unchanged for over 1,600 years, underscoring the cultural depth of Armenia. Gabrielyan proposed a series of forward-thinking innovative strategies and practical cases aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and appeal of the cultural tourism sector. These strategies not only demonstrate respect for and preservation of cultural uniqueness but also reflect a deep understanding and commitment to sustainable development principles.

“Pakistan made headlines in the cricket world recently by utilizing patio heaters and giant fans on the pitch set for the third Test against England at Rawalpindi,” writes Harry Trumpston. “The goal was to create conditions more favorable for the home team’s spin bowlers. Conversely, what strategies have football clubs employed to optimize their pitches for better performance?”

You can’t discuss this topic without mentioning John Beck and his Cambridge United team from the early 1990s, who impressively climbed from the fourth tier to the second and nearly squeezed into the top flight. Beck instructed the groundskeepers at Abbey Stadium to let the grass grow long in the corners, allowing the ball to sit perfectly when launched to the wingers, who would then assist the formidable front duo of Dion Dublin and John Taylor.

Beck’s unconventional tactics didn’t stop there; he often held training sessions on the pitch to deliberately churn up the grass, hindering opponents keen on playing through midfield. His pursuit of marginal gains predates Dave Brailsford’s methods. He also engaged in mind games by cranking up the heat in the away dressing room until it was unbearable, soaking their warm-up balls in water to add weight, and loading their tea with sugar. “Every single thing you’ve heard from that time was true,” Dublin affirmed in an interview with the Cambridge News in 2017.

Beck’s unique strategies clearly influenced others. Mark Hughes had the Millennium Stadium’s ground staff allow the grass on the wings to grow longer and even narrowed the pitch before Wales faced Brazil in a friendly in 2000. It didn’t help much; Brazil won 3-0. The tactic of narrowing the pitch for a strategic edge goes further back, to Graeme Souness, who tried it with Rangers against Dynamo Kyiv during his tenure at Ibrox in the late ’80s. It was successful; Rangers overcame an aggregate deficit to win 2-1.

In a less subtle approach, Patrik Gunnarsson, the Viking goalkeeper from Norway, was caught on video in 2022, pulling goalposts closer together right after the assistant referee checked them. Perhaps he learned this trick from Kim Christensen, a goalkeeper in Gothenburg who admitted to adjusting the goalposts to make them less than a full eight yards wide. “I got the tip from a goalkeeping friend a few years ago, and since then I have done it occasionally,” Christensen said unapologetically.

And then there’s the infamous tale of Halifax Town and their legendary flamethrower. Are there any other amusing examples of pitch tricks or adjustments in football history?

In a twist, Exeter City’s FA Cup clash with Barnet is notable for a “stand derby,” as the Bees sold part of The Hive to the Grecians during the redevelopment of St James Park. Stephen Joseph inquired, “Have any other clubs sold parts of their grounds to one another?”

Paul Levay points to Port Vale: “After Chester City was removed from their old Sealand Road ground in the late ’80s, the roof of their main stand ended up at Vale Park. It was installed in 1992 and, as far as I know, it’s still there today. Billy Bell, Vale’s chairman and a local used-car dealer, masterminded this unusual maneuver. The stand at the Hamil Road End has gone through multiple sponsorships and name changes, but for many fans, it remains a tribute to Bell.

“The ’90s marked the peak of Vale’s history, thanks to Bell and their legendary manager, John Rudge. This week is particularly fitting for the inquiry, as a statue honoring Rudge was unveiled outside the Hamil Road End. If you look closely at photos from the ceremony, you can spot remnants of the Sealand Road roof.”

Jim McEleny adds, “This phenomenon appears more common in Scotland than England.” He notes that Greenock Morton once purchased a stand roof (which was never reinstalled) and two floodlights (still operational) from St Mirren upon their departure from Love Street. Interestingly, St Mirren’s original floodlights came from Ibrox Park as part of a transfer deal with Rangers. Auchinleck Talbot acquired a stand when Hamilton Accies vacated their old Douglas Park, reassembly taking time due to the lack of organized dismantling. Kilwinning Rangers also benefitted from floodlights pried from York City’s Bootham Crescent, which reportedly had ties back to Manchester United’s old training ground.

As it turns out, there will be yet another ‘Stand Derby’ soon, with Maidstone United, who reached the fifth round last year, facing Solihull Moors. During a past redevelopment of the ‘Elvis End,’ Maidstone sold their old stand to Solihull, where it still resides today.

Shifting gears, “Erling Haaland has set the record as Norway’s top scorer at just 24,” posed Ben Jones. “Is this a modern-era record?”

Jack Hayward offers insight, saying, “The youngest player to be the top scorer for a national team seems to be Shalom Luani, who is now better known for his NFL career. Luani scored during a 1-1 draw for American Samoa against the Cook Islands on November 24, 2011. This goal tied him with Ramin Ott at the time. Interestingly, Luani was just 17 years, three months, and 19 days old. He had scored his debut international goal two days prior against Tonga in the World Cup qualifiers; Ott later netted a third goal and shares the record for the national team with Samuel Hayward.”

Derek Robertson draws attention to a remarkable situation in this season’s Women’s Division 4 in Sweden, where Ängelholms FF finished the season unbeaten without conceding a single goal yet still ended as runners-up. “They must surely be the most unlucky—yet ‘best’—runners-up in history?”

The story highlights the unpredictability of Division 4 women’s football. Despite their invincibility, Ängelholms FF fell short of the league title due to three draws, as Ljungbyhed surprisingly surpassed them for promotion. Currently, Ängelholm (P18 W15 D3 L0 F78 A0) is engaged in a playoff that could still yield a way up, facing Strövelstorps GoIF/IF Salamis from the tier above. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, with the visitors equalizing in the 87th minute. Good luck in the second leg, Ängelholm! They wouldn’t be the first to be denied promotion despite an undefeated season.

Reflecting on the relationship between intelligence and footballers, Karl Corrick recounted in January 2012, “Footballers aren’t usually considered intellectuals, yet upon learning of David Wetherall, a childhood hero, I was amazed to find he graduated with a BSc in chemistry from the University of Sheffield. Are there other professional footballers who’ve achieved degrees, thus debunking this stereotype?”

While honorary degrees don’t qualify—consider Alan Shearer’s, for example—many professional players have indeed earned academic credentials. Wetherall’s accomplishment is matched by former Everton and Wales midfielder Barry Horne, who also graduated from the University of Liverpool.

The late Sócrates held degrees in both medicine and philosophy, and Steve Palmer, a defender from Ipswich and various clubs, earned a software engineering degree from Cambridge. “When I started, it was a media novelty, but entering professional sports means you’re evaluated solely on performance,” Palmer noted. “Perhaps my ability to study mirrored qualities that helped me learn the game.”

Additional educated players include Steve Heighway (economics), Slaven Bilic (law), Shaka Hislop (mechanical engineering), Iain Dowie (a master’s in engineering), Steve Coppell (economics), Richard Hinds (law from Open University), Arsène Wenger (economics), Gudni Bergsson (law), and Oliver Bierhoff (economics).

Among those new to this list are Kaoru Mitoma (dribbling), Giorgio Chiellini (master’s in business administration), Stuart Armstrong (law), Romelu Lukaku (public relations and tourism), Simon Mignolet (law and political science), Juan Mata (marketing, later sports science), Mary Earps (management and business studies), Gerard Piqué (master’s in business), Duncan Watmore (economics and business management), Vincent Kompany (MBA), Andrés Iniesta (physical activity and sports sciences, later biology), and Edwin van der Sar (sports and brand management), with undoubtedly more out there that we’ve missed.

Finally, Tim P. raises an interesting question: “With seven London teams and three from the south coast, is this season the least ‘northern’ in English top-flight history?”

Steve Butler adds, “Which team in the Premier League era has the worst record in lunchtime kick-offs? As a West Ham fan, this idea crossed my mind around 2 PM last Saturday.”

Cameron McGlone chimes in, stating, “While on loan at Peterborough from Rotherham last season, Peter Kioso was appointed club captain. Is this a common occurrence? What other examples exist of loan players being named permanent captains?”

Nigel Smith also shares an intriguing stat: “Ipswich’s nine results this season form a palindrome (0-2, 1-4, 2-2, 1-1, 0-0, 1-1, 2-2, 1-4, 0-2). Can we find longer streaks?”

On October 27, Stuart from the UK shared his impressions after watching the dance drama “Wing Chun” in Guilin, Guangxi. “I’ve never seen a dance drama like this before. The use of light and shadow is fantastic, and the way it showcases Chinese kung fu is truly stunning,” he remarked.

The 2024 Guilin Arts Festival kicked off on October 26, and over the next two days, the original dance drama “Wing Chun” from Shenzhen was performed at the Guilin Grand Theatre.

As a deep male voice began to chant, the curtain raised, unfolding a story steeped in Chinese martial arts. The drama opens with a film about Wing Chun boxing, setting the stage for the entire performance. In the film, the character “Master Ye” journeys to a foreign land, clutching the “Wing Chun Hall” plaque, aiming to open the door to Wing Chun amidst a sea of martial arts schools. With a sophisticated stage setup, seamless scene transitions, and a blend of warm and cool lighting, the narrative intertwines the life journey of “Master Ye” with the dramatic portrayal of kung fu, showcasing the dancers’ precise movements through striking contrasts in light.

Stuart noted the impactful integration of cinematic elements within the performance. “I particularly loved the vintage film filters used during the performance; it created an immersive experience for me.”

Li Jingzhe, the deputy director of the Shenzhen Opera and Dance Drama Theater and the creator of “Wing Chun,” explained, “The storylines of the ‘film set’ and ‘Master Ye’ run parallel. The performers, dressed in fragrant cloud silk garments, seamlessly blend martial arts with dance, highlighting both Wing Chun boxing and the artistry of the fragrant cloud silk, both of which are part of our intangible cultural heritage.”

Graduate student Zhang Qiyu from Guangxi Normal University expressed her excitement: “It’s not often that we get to see a performance as professional as ‘Wing Chun’ in Guilin, especially one that combines martial arts with dance. I booked my ticket right away. I hope to learn from these dancers’ expertise to improve my own performance skills.”

The dance drama “Wing Chun” is a production of the Shenzhen Opera and Dance Drama Theater, sponsored by the Shenzhen Municipal Propaganda Department and the Shenzhen Cultural, Radio, Television, Tourism, and Sports Bureau. The script is penned by Feng Shuangbai, the chair of the Chinese Dancers Association, while the celebrated duo Han Zhen and Zhou Liya serve as the chief directors. Their collaboration has led to acclaimed productions such as “Eternal Waves,” “Only This Green,” and “Shawan Memories.” Since its premiere in December 2022, “Wing Chun” has performed over 200 times across China, Singapore, the UK, and France.