At school, Sports were an integral part of my life. The joy of raising the stick after a good run, quick dribbles, and a goal in hockey was immeasurable. The sight of a brave forehand landing on the opponent’s half on the table tennis table was audacious. In Football the goal scored from the side of my foot was nothing short of euphoria. The airborne badminton smash, the classic cover drive on the cricket pitch, the tumbling catch, and knocking the stumps over from a quick ball were achievements most exquisite.
These riveting experiences in the realm of play were not experiences in isolation; in fact, they had a cascading effect. The little achievements led to a boost of confidence and rubbed onto performances in other activities and more importantly, this success in sports led to substantial improvements in academic grades. This was undoubtedly the rub-off effect that was affecting my personality positively. The joy of sporting exploits was enriching the other facets of my work schedule and helped me improve. The rub-off effect phenomenon can do wonders not only for oneself but also for a group or a team.
The Liverpool Illustration
One illustration, that can give credence to my opinion is the English Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United played yesterday night at Anfield, Liverpool. The match has gained historic importance and shall be remembered for a long time to come. Two young players finding their feet in International Football have literally turned the fortunes of Liverpool who have had an uncharacteristic season rigged with injuries and inconsistent play. However, the confidence displayed by Cody Gakpo ( who has just arrived at Liverpool ) and the sheer speed of Darwin Nunez has rubbed off big time on Liverpool and in no uncertain terms have galvanised the entire Team.
Cody and Darwin
The impact of these two young players was on display yesterday night. Cody Gakpo’s double strike was laden with precision and timing while Darwin Nunez’s ( whom I have criticised a bit for his scoring abilities ) two controlled headers, literally lifted the team. Nunez has proved me wrong. His speed was never in doubt and as he is settling into the club the young gun from Uruguay is showing his true stature which is rubbing off on the others. Mo Salah was buoyed too and scored a brace himself with Roberto Firmino too getting on the scoresheet. In the end, a super charged Liverpool decimated Manchester United 7-0 on a forgetful night for the visitors.
The intensity was palpable as Liverpool surged past a hapless Man U Team. Nunez and Gakpo had injected some throbbing Adrenalin in the Liverpool group. The Rub-Off Effect was for all to see. A great game for Liverpool as they reached the 5th position in the League table. A few days ago they were at 10th, and are looking good for further ascendancy. Jurgen Klopp ( Liverpool’s Manager ) could afford a big smile.
The Best thing about Sport is that it gives you Hope. You just need to keep Faith and of course, never underestimate the Rub-off effect.
Read Quick, Read Better @ rizkhan.in
Featured Image : Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo-Liverpool newsmakers