Traces football's European origins and its evolution from a game of privilege into a national institution. Details how prevailing cultural and gender-based imperatives have shaped the game's
rules, strategies, and lexicon, and how the game has, in turn, informed the issues of American militarism, feminism, and regionalism. Also considers how football's obsession with domination and
victory reinforces these same values in American culture. Gems is associate professor of health and physical education at North Central College. He has written articles and reviews on
sports-related issues. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
