Stuart Lustigman Column
While mixing politics and sport is not recommended there are times when a repressive administration cannot expect the same privileges as those more tolerant. It's not just that Iran's Ayatolla Ahmed Khatami called for Government opponents, "backed by the United States and Israel", to be executed but that four players from the national team have been banned for life for wearing emerald green wristbands, the symbol of support for a defeated opposition candidate, in a World Cup match. FIFA should ban any country where its football is used by Government for political purposes.
On Monday night JNET Radio (www.jnetradio.com) was lucky enough to have me as one of its guests. The sport's programme, which runs every Monday 9.00-12.00pm, was hosted by Dr Nick Krasner and Brian 'Hoops' Melzack. Sharing the studio with us were three Maccabiah hopefuls; Lauren Besser (girls U/18 football), Aaron Liffchak (rugby captain) and Sam Sloma (open football). Despite the fact that both Aaron (London Welsh) and Sam (Woking FC) are professionals they were, nevertheless, very excited to be part of the GB squad, even though having to pay their own way. What also impressed me was the manner in which Lauren, Aaron and Sam related to the Games as a meaningful Jewish experience. If these three athletes are typical of those chosen to represent GB, then the selectors have, indeed, done a great job.
Talking of the Maccabiah, I am involved again this year in what will be my sixth Games although never as a competitor. So I took the opportunity to experience one of the sports that might yet be an option for me come 2013, namely lawn bowls. I was invited to "roll a few woods" (I picked up the lingo quite quickly), although I got a few funny looks from the members when, on hitting the jack, I ripped off my shirt and did an 'aeroplane' around the green! I hope that's not my bowls career over as I really enjoyed the sport.
