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User:U3053471/The Effects of Over-Training on Young, Developing Athletes

Presentation Link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cM4FYQE7GPw&list=HL1320274414&feature=mh_lolz

Introduction
Australia is known for its strongly developed, and passionate sporting culture. Sport is not 'just a game' in our country, it's a lifestyle, and the future of this lifestyle depends on the development of today's young athletes. It's every young athlete's dream to one day be the best at their chosen sport, but could their commitment, and drive to achieve this actually be working against them. Australian children are encouraged from all angles to participate in physical activities, but they're never taught how to realise when they may be participating too often or too intensely. From a young age if an athlete is considered to be talented, displaying traits or skills allowing them to be identified as a future superstar in their chosen sport they are encouraged to train harder, and participate more; thus allowing for further development and continued monitoring. This encouragement is a positive initiative in regards to the future of Australian sport, however it's this over-training from an early age that's leading to increasing rates of over-use injuries, and also the occurrence of “burnout” in many young athletes; which then results in excessive fatigue, decreased performance levels, and in some cases, the end of that athlete's career. Many of our future athletes are currently being haunted by this growing epidemic, and many will contine to be in the future if the syndrome is not respected and dealt with accordingly.It is important to ensure our young athletes are encouraged and assisted with their athletic development, but guidelines need to be put in place to ensure they all remain fit and healthy throughout this progression.

Over-training Syndrome Defined
The effects of overtraning can be detrimental to all athletes, at any age and any level of competition. The US Olympic committee defines overtraining as 'the syndrome that results when excessive, usually physical, overlaod on an athlete occurs without adequate rest, resulting in a decrease in performance and the inability to train'. Over-training syndrome is highly common amongst the world's population of elite athletes due to their need to specialise their training programs. It is a syndrome that can force an athlete into retirement if not dealt with appropriately as it can progress into a reoccurring injury, or even worse. The syndrome is now becoming increasingly prevalent within the world's youth population, and most commonly displays itself in the form of overuse injuries. Overuse injuries are also known as microtrauma. They are recognised by the presence of disrupted tissue integrity as a result from repeatititive, abnormal stresses applied to the tissue through continuous training or training with too little recovery time. They may also occur due to poor training errors (e.g. increasing training load too quickly), suboptimal training surfaces, poor biomechanics or technique during performance, insufficient motor control, decreased flexibility or imbalances between strength and flexibility, uneven skeletal/body alignment, or previous injuries. The most common type of overuse injury occur in bones and are known as stress fractures. They often result from a rapid increase in training volume or intensity, or from excessive training on hard surfaces with insufficient rest periods. These types of fractures are most prevalent in the lower extremities of the body, more specifically the tibia with an incidence rate of 51% (1988, Yngve) of all overuse injuries that occur in young athletes. Other types of overuse injures occur commonly within tendons located within the body and involve inflammation of the area, or redness, soreness and swelling. This type of injury is known as a condition called tendinitis. It has high prevalence rates and occurs from the tendon repeatedly rubbing against a bony structure, ligament, another tendon, or from becoming displaced from it's usual position. If this condition is left untreated it will progress to chronic tendinitis or tendinopathy.

Prevalence and Impacts
Overtraining Syndrome (OTS) is a rapidly growing epidemic. It is already prevalent but the incidence rate is still growing, and is becoming even more increasingly common amongst the world's athletes. It has been reported to be present in more than 60% of elite distance runners at some point in their career (Morgan et al, 1987); 21% of the Australian swimming team after 6 months of training for a national competition (Hooper et al, 1993); more than 50% of players in a soccer team in a competitive season (Lehmann et al, 1992); 28% of athletes competing in the 1996 Summer Olympics and 10% of athletes in the 1998 Winter Olympics (Gould et al, 2001). While the majority of these stat's are based on senior elite athletes, the prevalence in younger athletes is now becoming more common as well. It is occurring at all levels of competition, and is most obviously seen in the form of increased injury rates. “Young athletes appear to be at increased risk for overtraining from being pushed too hard and too fast in many instances...” (John M MacKnight, 2011). We are currently faced with stats such as, '41% of all stress fractures occurring in patients 19 years old and younger', and 'over use or repetitive trauma injuries represent approximately 50% of all pediatric sport-related injuries'.

One of the major factors contributing to the growing prevalence of overuse injuries in the younger population is due to the decision to specialise in one sport and concentrate solely on that particular sport all year round. The continuous, repetitive stresses placed on the body from a young age are becoming a detrimental factor, handicapping both the athletes progress and performance results. Australia is a relatively active society, within the youth society 73% of boys and 62% of girls in Australia already participate in unorganised sport (e.g. bike riding, skateboarding, dancing) therefore it is unnecessary for them to also participate in equal levels of organised sport.

Besides the physical impacts these injuries have on the body they also impact in a number of other damaging ways. Over time the continual stresses placed on these damaged tissues can alter the way in which the body chemically responds to the physicality of workouts. Resulting in a reversed effect upon the beneficial gains that are expected from the workout. As the athlete begins to realise this lessened effect from training the issue also becomes a psychological one and can then result in an even greater decrease in performance. The issue then becomes not only physical but also an emotional and psychological battle meaning that extra effort is required to return to previous form.

Gymnastics is a sport continuously growing in popularity. It is incredibly physically demanding and places enormous amounts of repetitive stresses on the body. The human body was not designed to be able to withstand the unusual tricks and movements associated with the routines and exercises involved. Therefore, inevitably, injuries do occur, 'usually, but not solely, as a result of chronic microtrauma..', taking it's effect mainly in the wrists of the athletes. As gymnastics is an early specialisation sport the majority of these injuries are occurring in young athletes. However, even though this is common knowledge amongst those entrusted to train our future gymnasts the prevalence of overuse injuries still remains high.

Soccer is said to be the most popular team sport in the world. The Australian youth population play a role in contributing to this world number one status, with 22.5% of all young Australian's preferring to play it as their sport of choice, which also makes it the highest nationally played game for our youth population. Despite it's popularity, like any other sport there is a high risk of injury involved, studies conducted on both elite and non-elite players have shown almost equal rates of injuries across both genders. A specific study was undertaken 'Comprehensive warm-up programme to prevent injuries in young female footballers: cluster randomised controlled trial', http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.ezproxy1.canberra.edu.au/pmc/articles/PMC2600961/?tool=pmcentrez to investigate weather pre-competition warm up factors could help lower the rates of injury within the sport. Results displayed a positive outcome for most classifications of injuries, including Overuse injury prevalence.

Suggested Theories and Management Solutions
It's only fair to question why we are seeing this continuous growth in overuse injuries within our junior athlete category when our knowledge of sports science is also continuously growing. To solve a problem it must first be understood why the problem exists and in relation to overtraining syndrome there are a few suggested theories.

Due to the commodification of sport our young athletes are now days exposed to a larger array of different sports via media coverage and other technologies. Their exposure to sports such as gymnastics, swimming and tennis in particular encourages the desire to specialise in one sport, with all three of these sports frequently focusing attention on several very talented, and also very young athletes. More generalised sports such as rugby league, AFL, and cricket are also starting to have the same impact with players as young as 16 years old making their debut at the professional level.

The success of these young athletes is a very powerful tool in initiating the drive within other young athletes to want to follow in this direction. Then add to this the realisation that most Olympic sports have training programs and selection processes that are designed for and aimed at recruiting future champions from our young athletic population and the dream of one day being one of these champions becomes a possible reality and the decision to specialise in one sport appears as a positive option.

Most young athletes see professional sport for all it's fame and glory and don't consider the amount of background work involved, or the consequences of the amount of work required. It is therefore the responsibility of those persons associated with the athlete to bring these things to their attention. However this isn't currently possible with the lack of widespread knowledge about the syndrome. There are several training guidelines and proteges designed to help combat the effects of OTS, such as Principles of Training, Periodisation, FITT principle, but until the OTS is granted worthy acknowledgement the significance of these guidelines are not properly understood. If professional sporting clubs and associations are going to continue with their athlete development programs and recruit athletes from a young age then the managment responsible need to ensure all staff are aware of this syndrome. They need to reinforce the importance of preventing the onset of the syndrome, and enforce safe guidelines which must be followed.

The best management is prevention. It is imperative that all coaches, trainers and even parents involved with young athletes are aware of the overtraining syndrome and maintain respect for the possible onset of the syndrome, and for the devastating effects that it can have. Of the high prevalence rate of overuse injuries occurring within the youth athlete category it is speculated that more than half of these injuries could possibly be prevented through the practise of a few simple approaches.

Well constructed training programs are a vital key in minimising the chances of onset of the overtraining syndrome. All training programs and schedules should be individualised to meet the athlete's personal and specific needs. They should incorporate the use of incremental increases in training, and they should contain an appropriate work to rest and recovery ratio. One way to ensure these things happen is to work inline with the periodisation of training model which systematically stresses the athlete's body in different ways and by different means depending on what time of year it is in relation to the athlete's competition period. This model of training also incorporates the FITTE training principle which is another tool that can be used to control the onset of overtraining syndrome.

Young athletes should not be encouraged to specialise in one sport from an early age. Instead children involved in sport should be encouraged to participate in a variety of different physical activities, both organised and unorganised. This then instigates a wider progression of skill development and places less repetitive stresses on the body.

When scheduling events for young athletes it is important to ensure that plenty of time is taken to carefully consider the needs and requirements of the athletes. Things such as the length of the event, the activity volume and intensity, recovery time between rest and competition periods, and between day sleep time all need to be considered with utmost precaution and diligence.

Conclusion
Further research is still needed to provide evidence-based guidelines for overuse injury prevention in young athletes. Numerous studies have been undertaken to investigate the prevalence and consequences of overtraining syndrome, however there is still not enough evidence or science based information to either support or disprove the risks involved. As youth participation levels in sport continue to rise it is now more important than ever that this growing epidemic is acknowledged and dealt with respectively. It is a serious and preventable matter that can end in devastation, and it should be dealt with in regards to this.


text:
Literature/1932/Wells

Wikimedia

 * H. G. Wells

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Literature/1932/Wells


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User:Seand23/Funding for NRL clubs under new pokie laws

St George Illawarra may be the reigning National Rugby League premiers, but proposed new poker machine laws could force them to fold by 2014. The laws are estimated to cost 14 leagues clubs over $215 million, which would cut financial support to NRL teams.

Independent MP Andrew Wilkie is the driving force behind having mandatory pre-commitment technology in poker machines. A person must register for a ‘licence to gamble’ then set their bet limit online. If they reach their limit they are locked out from playing any poker machine. The Prime Minister has agreed to the reforms as Mr. Wilkie has threatened to take down the minority government by pulling his vote.

Rugby League clubs argue they face devastation if the technology is introduced, pointing out that last year they donated $40 million to help fund the purchase of items like football jumpers, shorts, socks, trophies, insurance, medical kits, referee outfits and ground developments. The same amount would be spent on the installation of the new technology alone. Executive Director of Clubs Australia Anthony Ball states that clubs have been the 'financial backbone of rugby league' for more than 50 years. He believes pokie reform will kill registered clubs and the 1,200 junior league teams they support.

This paper will discuss the solutions available to NRL clubs such as alternative revenue sources and the possibility of private ownership. The feasibility of the laws will also be covered. Could they stop a problem that is destroying the lives of individuals and their families or simply turn gamblers to unrestricted online outlets?

Introduction
The proposed poker machine reform has brought forward an unfortunate reality. Australian Rugby League is dependent on problem gamblers. The top ten pokie clubs in NSW earn a combined $400 million every year from the machines (Carson, 2011). One of the nation’s largest clubs, the Panthers Group, pulled in $91.7 million (60% of it’s revenue) from pokies in 2010 (The Guardian, 2011). This money is put back into the community to fund rugby league at the expense of problem gamblers. It ensures the financial security of our beloved NRL teams and creates opportunities for our youth at a grassroots level. Leagues clubs have reinforced that they must maintain similar revenue if they are to continue funding the sport. Arguably crucial to the financial state of rugby league, the reform will also have implications on federal politics and businesses in the hospitality industry.

Application to Business, Politics and Sport

Up to five million Australians are affected by problem gambling each year. These include the gamblers themselves, their families, their friends and their employers (Macklin, 2011). Independent MP Andrew Wilkie wants to fast-track action on the issue''. “Problem gamblers routinely lose everything-including their jobs, homes and sometimes even their lives. About 95,000 Australians are poker machine problem gamblers and another 95,000 are at risk of becoming so”,'' he told the Southern Courier. Wilkie aims to introduce mandatory pre-commitment technology into all poker machines around the country. He is planning to come to an agreement with the Government before June 2012. Players would be required to register and set a bet limit in order to play high intensity machines. They could only lose $120 per hour under the scheme. That is a dramatic decrease from the staggering $1200 per hour they can lose now (Costello, 2011). Recreational gamblers would not need to register to play on low intensity machines ($1 bet maximum). The Labor Government promised Wilkie that it could achieve mandatory pre-commitment reform. He has threatened to withdraw his support for Julia Gillard if the promise is not met. With his independent vote, Wilkie has the political leverage to decide which party gains power.

There is no question that the pokie reforms will hurt businesses like clubs and hotels. But to what extent and for what benefit? Clubs Australia believes that mandatory pre-commitment will ‘directly attack the ability of clubs to support rugby league teams’. The organisation claims that the technology will cost the pokie industry $3 billion (The Age, 2011) However, that figure is relatively insignificant in comparison to the revenue problem gamblers generate. The Productivity Commission-Australia’s leading economic research body-found that problem gamblers lose about $5 billion per year. A whopping 40-60% of total club revenue comes from these people. Although problem gamblers are present everywhere--in casinos and betting outlets, not just in clubs. Carissa Simons from Clubs NSW knows pre-commitment technology will be an expensive exercise. She says that anything less than a proven system would not justify cutting jobs and spending money on upgrading machines (Mooney, 2011). Clubs Australia CEO Anthony Ball agrees. ''“It’s common sense that a problem gambler will be first in line for a licence and will set unrealistically high limits. Now Andrew Wilkie admits that anyone living near a state border will be able to get around his $3 billion technology by simply crossing over.”,'' he said (Clubs Australia, 2011)

Feasibility of the Reforms
Mandatory pre-commitment is still untested in Australia. Norway is the only country in the world to adopt the system. Less than 3,000 machines are networked and monitored by a central database. When players register, they must show their Government ID card. Individual account information is then stored onto a server. The rate of severe problem gambling in Norway rose from 1.3% in 2007 to 2.1% in 2010. It is fair to say that the system has not worked at all. Pre-commitment on poker machines would have the potential to regulate 55% of all Australian gamblers (AGS, 2010).

NRL Level

Rugby League has been played in it's heartlands of New South Wales and Queensland since the early 1900's. The game has catered for players of all standards at junior and senior levels. The first licenced leagues clubs opened their doors in the 1950's. The clubs were small, older buildings donated by supporters of the sport (Turnbull, 2009). The clubs shared one vision: "To propogate the game of Rugby League at junior and senior levels and to generally support the community" (Turnbull, pg 2, 2009).Leagues clubs were given licences to operate gaming machines and sell liquor to help them to achieve that objective.

The registered NSW Leagues Clubs later joined with the Queensland Leagues Clubs to form an association, now called Leagues Clubs Australia. Thus, the clubs were able to gain stronger representation in government and industry forums (Turnbull, 2009). Rugby League has continued to grow and develop in the way that the clubs planned six decades ago. In 2011, the Bulldogs and Storm faced off in Adelaide and Western Australia are currently bidding for a Perth NRL side. Rugby League is an integral part of NSW and QLD state culture, just as the AFL is in Victoria. The NRL has tremendous pulling power and very passionate audiences:

-More than 3.2 million people across Australia watched the 2011 NRL Grand Final live on free-to-air.

-State of Origin is a 'must watch' program for 20.3% of Australians, more than any program in other sporting codes.

-The NRL provides employment for 20,500 people in the management, administration and operation of Rugby League. (Roy Morgan Research, 2009-2010).

Leagues clubs play a key role in operating the NRL. Each club employs a large number of staff in administration, coaching, medical, marketing, event management, security and food and beverage catering (Peatling, 2011). St George Leagues Club has warned that they will cut all funding to the Dragons NRL team by 2014 if pre-commitment is successful (Hildebrand, 2011). The leagues club ran at slight loss last financial year due to high taxes (SBS Insight, 1 Nov 2011). St George Leagues injects $650,000 per year into the 'Dragons Community' program. The program involves players from the NRL squad visiting communities to encourage youths to make positive choices in regards to health and education. Club facilities also provide the community with a comfortable and affordable places to drink and eat at. Sadly, some clubs can invest as little as 2.7% of their profits back into the community (SBS Insight, 1 Nov 2011).

Leagues Clubs with Highest Financial Risk (Clubs Australia, 2011)

1. Canterbury (Bulldogs Leagues Club) Installation: 9,540,000 Annual Income Reduction: 27,419,368

2. Parramatta Leagues Club           Installation: 7,080,000 Annual Income Reduction: 20,930,094

3. Penrith Rugby League Club        Installation: 10,650,000 Annual Income Reduction: 15,525,766

4. St George Leagues Club            Installation: 6,180,000 Annual Income Reduction: 14,732,885

5. Broncos Leagues Club              Installation: 4,200,000 Annual Income Reduction:  5,201,200

Grassroots Level
More than 400,000 players across NSW and QLD pull on their teams colours and play the game of Rugby League (Turnbull, 2009). Leagues clubs play a major role in the entire competition structure. An NRL club consists of a number of teams: an Under 20 team in the Toyota Cup, a feeder team from the NSW or QLD Cup and junior rep teams in SG Ball and the Harold Matthews Cup. Therefore, all of these tiers rely on the funding from the leagues clubs to the NRL clubs. The lack of funding would impact people playing in the elite, professional, youth and junior ranks. The Toyota Cup is the first national youth competition in any Australian sport. Young atheletes are presented with a fantastic opportunity to catapult themselves into NRL stardom. Josh Dugan and Jharal Yow Yeh both played Toyota Cup in 2008 before playing State of Origin in 2011. About 34% of Toyota Cup players were employed in 2009 along with 35% completing traineeships and 28% doing full-time study (Turner, 2009). Leagues clubs help to promote employment whilst playing rugby league. They offer various casual bar and administration jobs which are obviously very easy to get into for the players.

Leagues clubs help to facilitate the grassroots sector of the sport. They are vital to the strength of rugby league in NSW and QLD as well as expansion into other areas of Australia. Examples of the goods and services leagues clubs provide are:

 * Junior league playing gear, insurance, trophies, medical kits, grants to clubs, administration.

 * Travel and accommodation for junior representative teams.

 * Referee outfits, fees, training, insurance.

 * Community coaching clinics.

 * School funding.

 * Educational and sporting scholarships.

 * Development liasion officers.

 * Ground improvements at senior and junior levels.

The benefits to communities include increased participation for locals, reducing obesity and higher use of local sports facilities (Turner, 2009). The investments made by leagues clubs ensure that players of different calibres can participate in competitive Rugby League. Beyond all else, they ensure that people of any age can enjoy the sport.

Private Ownership
Private ownership is the world trend (Lewis, 2010). It will buy a club the best of the best- top coaching staff, world class facilities and a highly talented group of players. Private ownership arrived in the NRL with Russell Crowe's acquisition of South Sydney and more recently, mining magnate Nathan Tinkler purchasing the Newcastle Knights. Tinkler will turn a debt-ridden club into one of the richest in the NRL. He has provided one of the best ever coaches, international Darius Boyd $20 million bank guarentee and paid off $6 million in liabilities. Often synonymous with success on and off the field, private ownership is criticised for it's lack of community input. Will it be the new revenue source for NRL teams?

While entrepreneurs can improve the performance of clubs, their control means the average supporter can't have a say in the running of the team or the organisation that controls it (Lewis, 2010). On the other hand, Tinkler is a local Novocastrian who the members of the club whole-heartedly voted for to takeover. He has said that the club's traditional values will stay the same (Hooper, 2011). The concept still involves having one person in charge. If Tinkler was to then suffer from financial stress or decide he was no longer having fun, who would pick up the pieces? (Lewis, 2010).

Manchester City is a positive advertisement for the success of the concept. The English Premier League club has experienced success like never due to private ownership. South Sydney has endured a less positive result. Having a plethora of funds to make high-profile signings does not always lead to success. South Sydney have only made the finals once since Crowe bought the club in 2006.

Private ownership will become a far more attractive option if the pokie reform is introduced. NRL clubs should look at the structure of the Green Bay Packers NFL franchise. The business model for the Packers is centred on non-profit community ownership. No single owner is able to own more than 30% of shares in the team, leaving the power with the community (Treacy, 2011). Unlike NRL clubs, the Packers have never had to consider relocating despite representing a small population of 100,000 (Treacy, 2011). The Packers are one of the most successful NFL teams and every one of their home games is sold out. Community funding from a large number of parties would secure the future of an NRL club amidst the threat of pokie reforms. The funds would be allocated to community iniatives that leagues clubs could no longer afford to invest into.

Membership
Memberships are a strong source of revenue for NRL clubs. With exception of the Titans, each club has had a decline in member numbers over the last year. NRL clubs must improve the benefits available to members. As a fan of the game, there are many suggestions that could make membership better for the supporters.

 * Interacting with players and fans online.

 * Outdoor cinema evenings for members to watch classic past matches.

 * Drinks at the stadium before the game.

 * Material from the players e.g. voicemail message with players voice.

 * Own personal club email address e.g Jack@mightytigers.com.

These ideas all give club membership a community feel which is what is needed to get them on the rise.

Conclusion
Mandatory pre-commitment is not a convincing policy based on current evidence from overseas. There is no doubt that setting limits on such a popular form of gambling could bring positive results in Australia. It comes down to whether the impact on problem gambling is worth the damage the reforms will do to rugby league.The loss of funding from leagues clubs would have a disastrous impact on the sport at all levels. Private ownership and memberships will lead to financial prosperity and high community involvement if the right structures are put in place. For better or for worse, the NRL clubs won't be the same in the coming years.

Presentation
Finally uploaded for me http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDlQO7zBZTY


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User talk:NGrant

 Hello NGrant, and welcome to Wikiversity! If you need help, feel free to visit my talk page, or contact us and ask questions. After you leave a comment on a talk page, remember to sign and date; it helps everyone follow the threads of the discussion. The signature icon in the edit window makes it simple. All users are expected to abide by our Privacy policy, Civility policy, and the Terms of Use while at Wikiversity.

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title: User talk:NGrant


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User:NGrant

Hi, my name is Nick Grant and i am studying Sports management/ tourism management at University of Canberra. Here is the link to my Business, Politics and Sports essay.

/The Decline of Test Cricket?/

title: User:NGrant


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User talk:Alex21/Sport's role in the public image of political leaders and businessmen - how their money is changing the game

This is an excellent start, Alex. I am delighted we had an opportunity to chat. Postillion 08:22, 14 September 2011 (UTC)

Nearly slipped through the crack
Hi Alex, without the category tag of UCNISS/BPS2011 your essay wasn't listed - I fixed that up. Also, I moved your essay to be a sub page to your user page. You're all set up better now. Hope to see you progress your essay soon. Please come and see me if you have any trouble. Leighblackall 05:38, 18 October 2011 (UTC)


text: User:NGrant/The Secondary Revolution?

title: User:NGrant/The Secondary Revolution?


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User:NGrant/The Decline of Test Cricket?

You can view my presentation at this location.

Powerpoint for the presentation can be viewed here

In recent years the shorter forms of cricket have started to take over and are proving to be much more popular with the fans. The fast action and unpredictability which they bring has created a new dimension for the fans and the newly formed Indian Premier League has come about as a result. There have also been numerous debates between many former players and icons of the game about different strategies which could be implemented to reinvigorate the Test format. One of these methods includes introducing day/night test matches. Recent match fixing allegations in test cricket have also done no favours for its credibility, or to increase its appeal to the fans. Political power from the boards in cricket, and in selections has also further hurt test cricket as a whole.

This paper will look into the many factors which are impacting on the decline of Test Cricket. It will focus on an international scale through recent allegations which have been made against players, the abuse of political power in the game, and also through the recent IPL revolution. It will focus on factors at national and state levels in Australia and how they are impacting on the decline for Australian Test Cricket. It will also look into how Test Cricket can possibly be reinvigorated in the future to improve it as a business aspect and for fans in the future.

Introduction
Ever since World Series Cricket was introduced by Kerry Packer in 1977, test cricket has faced increased competition. Since then the one day cricket format has developed into what it is today, and more recently the 20/20 competition, in particular the IPL T20, has taken cricket to new heights. The fast paced, high action nature of the game is proving to be far more popular with the fans, and has also delivered a much needed revenue boost for cricket as a business. Recent allegations in test cricket have done nothing to improve its popularity, whilst state and local levels continue to struggle in the longer formats of the game. The need to reinvigorate test cricket is imminent, with day/night test cricket one of many methods which could be used, to return it to the pinnacle of cricket for all.

Harbhajan Singh, Andrew Symonds & the BCCI

In 2008 allegations were made between Andrew Symonds and Harbhajan Singh during the Sydney test match between Australia and India. It was alleged that Singh had referred to Symonds as a “monkey” and was later reported by match umpires Steve Bucknor and Mark Benson for racial allegations. Singh was later proven guilty under section 3.3 of the ICC code and banned for 3 test matches. After the outcome had been made, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stepped in and threatened to remove the Indian team from the tour if the banned wasn’t lifted (ECB, 2010). Given the political power that the BCCI holds within cricket, the International Cricket Council (ICC) stepped in, removing umpire Steve Bucknor from the third test, and allowing Harbhajan Singh to play in the remainder of the series. The ban was overturned and the penalty he received was downgraded to 50% of his match fee. The BCCI was heavily criticised following the incident for abusing the political power which they hold as the suspended sentence and following ICC hearing was only brought about after the BCCI had threatened to quit the tour.

Pakistan cricket
The Pakistan cricket team have also been involved in numerous scandals over the past few years. Most recently Salman Butt and Mohammed Asif have been found guilty of spot match fixing, through deliberate bowling of no balls throughout Test matches (Press Trust of India, 2011). This has seen them facing up to seven years in jail for their actions. Other allegations on the team include the Sydney Test match against Australia in 2010. Although the match fixing allegations were dismissed, it did not prevent many questions being asked about the nature of how Pakistan lost the test match. It has damaged the reputation of Pakistan cricket and also test match cricket as a whole.

Zimbabwe political turmoil
In the early years of the 21st century Zimbabwe cricket was also involved in political scandals. Players who were in the test cricket team were only allowed to play if they were for the Mugabe regime. Players who didn’t agree with the actions of President Mugabe were not allowed to play in the test team. The political power that Mugabe had also stretched over into the Zimbabwe Cricket Union (ZCU). As the ZCU was under Mugabe’s control, any players who were picked for the test cricket side were based on both their political and cricket ability. (Tatchell, P, 2011).

IPL Revolution
The Indian Premier League has become one of the biggest hits for cricket lovers since its inception in 2008. The quick pace and nature of the game gives fans excitement from every ball and allows them to watch a full game after work. Music and entertainment is also offered throughout the night, adding to the experience for spectators. The massive salary which players can attain from the player auctions is also another draw to the shorter form of the game. The highest paid player during the 2011 IPL was Gautam Gambhir from India who earned USD $2.4m for playing only six weeks of cricket. The money which is available from the tournament can be too tempting for some players, especially those on the fringe who do not have high paying Cricket Australia contracts. More players are now basing their style of play around the shorter forms of the game, as there is more business to be made in these competitions, than in test cricket. Lasith Malinga, a high profile Sri Lankan cricketer has also retired from test cricket, to focus on the shorter forms of the game. Malinga made $USD 500,000 from his six weeks worth in the IPL, providing him with more than enough money to live comfortably for many years. With the sort of money that is being thrown around in these player auctions, why would younger players be focusing on playing test cricket, when the main business opportunities are coming from the shorter formats of the game. The IPL’s brand value was valued at $3.67 billion for the 2011 tournament, making it a great proposition for business owners and investors. It has the capability to expand as a business even further in the future, with more revenue being generated and more pressure being placed upon test cricket.

Tradition vs Reward
With all of this money on offer, why would up and coming young cricketers be solely focused on gaining that lucrative baggy green that is given for playing test cricket for Australia? State cricketers work extremely hard to get where they are, and only a small minority are handed contracts by Cricket Australia. First class cricket (the level below test cricket in Australia) has struggled for a number of years in Australia, with matches consisting of two innings for both teams and is played over four days. Most games would struggle to get over 1000 spectators for the entirety of the four days. Virtually no Cricket Australia contracts are handed out just for Test players. Take the recent axing of Simon Katich as an example. Katich has been one of, if not the top performer in test cricket for Australia over the past three years (Conn, M). However when it came to his Cricket Australia contract renewal, Katich wasn’t handed a new contract with the reason being his age and to give younger players an opportunity. It can only fuel the debate that Cricket Australia as a business was not prepared to spend the money on Katich as he isn’t in the one day, or Twenty20 squads. It freed up more money for Cricket Australia to give contracts to other players who are playing in all forms of cricket for Australia. It also shows the position which Cricket Australia holds, and the political nonsense which is going on.

David Hussey is another prime example for this. Hussey is not in contention at the present time to be picked for test matches for Australia. However he was still handed a Cricket Australia contract worth $200,000 for his performances in the shorter forms of the game. On top of that he was also given $1.4m for participating in this years IPL. Given the treatment which was given to Katich and Hussey, it can come as no surprise that state and junior players who are trying to force their way into the Australian team and make their livelihoods off cricket will be looking to do so through the one day and Twenty20 formats and not through test cricket.

Changing of the guard
Players at both junior levels and state levels are now developing a style of play which is more suited to the shorter forms of the game, as they have a better chance of forcing their way into the Australian team and the money on offer can be seen as a fantastic business opportunity from a player’s perspective. Big hitters who can provide entertainment, stand to make a lot more money and be provided with more opportunities in the current climate than those who have based their game around the test match format and are currently playing first class cricket in Australia. David Warner is a prime example of how this has happened. Warner’s game is entirely based around the shorter formats of the game. However in the recent series against Sri Lanka, Warner was named as the 12th man for Australia in a test match against Sri Lanka. As he already has a Cricket Australia contract for the shorter formats of the game, he is eligible to participate in test matches for Australia has well. How Warner could be a better option than Simon Katich is as good a guess as anyone’s. It provides further evidence for state and local players who are coming up the ranks that basing their game around the shorter formats can be beneficial for their career and also as a business opportunity. It shows how the shorter forms of the game are taking over from test cricket, and influencing how young players are being brought up.

KFC 20/20 Big Bash
The KFC 20/20 Big Bash is just another downfall for test cricket at the state level in Australia. Its inception has put first class cricket further down the pecking order in Australia and big amounts of money are being offered for state cricketers. With relatively small salaries compared to players contracted to Cricket Australia, and players with access to cheques in the IPL, the 20/20 Big Bash can provide state players with a massive salary increase. Top state players can earn up to $150,000 for this years competition, and have a greater chance of receiving a big pay cheque than by playing first class cricket and hopefully being called up to play test cricket for Australia. 20/20 also provides a more inviting proposition as a business venture, as Twenty20 is so popular with the fans. It is broadcast during prime time TV giving potential investors a sound investment. On January 15 2010 a KFC 20/20 match between Victoria and Queensland at the MCG provided an attendance of 43,125 spectators. However less than 3 weeks earlier in the boxing day test between Australia and Pakistan, the attendance for day 2 was only 39,623. A fixture between two teams playing 20/20 at state level brought more spectators to the game, than day 2 of a Boxing Day test match involving Australia.

Need for reinvention

One suggestion which has been raised to reinvigorate test cricket, comes in the form of introducing day/night matches. It is of the belief of many former and current players that Test cricket played during the night has a future in the game. Rahul Dravid, a current Test Cricket batsman for India (who is second in the all time runs scored in test cricket) stated, “there is definitely a future for day-night test and first class cricket”. He also went onto state how it can be beneficial in the future, “I think there are a few further tweaks that need to be made…. but as with any new innovation administrators and the players will need to take a leap of faith at some point” (ESPNcricinfo). Peter Young, the public affairs manager for Cricket Australia also stated in an interview that “globally most premium sport is played at night”.

With this in mind it seems reasonable that cricket could be taken down the same path in the Test format to improve itself as a business proposition. People would be able to attend matches after work, which would fit better into the lives of the people in the 21st century, and increase the amount of business and revenue that cricket Australia would receive. It would also give test cricket television coverage during the prime time slot, another added bonus for Cricket Australia as a business. Of course more debating over the right ways to go about it needs to be discussed, and different aspects need to be further tested. However there is no reason why day/night games cannot be introduced in the future to improve test cricket as a business, for the spectators, and for the game itself. Dravid also said “with practice players will learn to adapt to the challenge, and tactics will start to come into play, which can only add interest” (ESPNcricinfo).

Conclusion
The decline of Test Cricket in recent times has been there for all to see. Attendance numbers are on the decline, and a lack of interest due to the lengthy nature of game and the booming inudstry of Twenty20 is proving to be a real threat. Recent allegations surrounding the test arena and abuse of power from political powerhouses of the game have also played their own part along the way. Test cricket needs to reinvigorated by exploring different options which are available and taking some risks along the way. This will ensure that it is around for the next 130 years, for future generations to enjoy the pure and traditional form of the game.

Reference List

 * Conn, M, (2011) 'Chris Gayle, Muttiah Muralidaran chasing big money for KFC Twenty20 Big Bash, talk up player payment storm' http://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket/domestic-cricket/chris-gayle-muttiah-muralidaran-chasing-big-money-for-kfc-twenty20-big-bash-talk-up-player-payment-storm/story-fn5k3es5-1226080436587 viewed 27th October

 * ECB, (2008). 'Harbhajan ban lifted' http://www.ecb.co.uk/news/world/harbhajan-ban-lifted,16139,EN.html viewed 25th October 2011

 * ESPNcricinfo.com, (2011), ‘Dravid backs day/night Test cricket’ http://www.espncricinfo.com/mcc/content/story/508873.html viewed 27th October 2011

 * IPL-schedule.com, (2011) ‘Players sold in IPL Auction 2011’ http://www.ipl-schedule.com/382-players-sold-in-ipl-auction-2011.html viewed 25th October 2011

 * n.a. (2011) ‘Recent MCG cricket attendances’ http://www.mcg.org.au/History/Attendances/~/media/Files/Cricket%20Attendances.ashx viewed 25th October 2011

 * Pande, B, (2011). ‘IPL-4: IPL's brand value falls by 11% to $ 3.67 billion’ http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-04-07/news/29392570_1_brand-finance-indian-premier-league-ipl viewed 25th October 2011

 * Press Trust of India, (2011). 'Spot-fixing: ICC hails verdict, says it’s a further warning' http://cricket.santabanta.com/cricket/news/11271/spot-fixing-icc-hails-verdict-says-its-a-further-warning.html viewed 27th October 2011

 * Sheek, (2011), ‘Orange the colour of day-night test cricket?’ http://www.theroar.com.au/2011/04/21/will-orange-be-the-colour-of-day-night-test-cricket/ viewed 25th October 2011

 * Tatchell, P. (2011) ‘Zimbabwe Cricket Team “Politically Cleansed' http://www.petertatchell.net/sport/zimbabwecricketers.htm viewed 26th October 2011

Wikipedia Pages

 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Premier_League
 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KFC_Twenty20_Big_Bash
 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lasith_Malinga
 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rahul_Dravid
 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheffield_Shield
 * http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Series_Cricket


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User:Magint

/FIFA: Corruption, The Modern Game And The World Cup/

title: User:Magint


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User:Magint/FIFA: Corruption, The Modern Game And The World Cup

This paper will give an insight into the corruption that has spread through the peak football body and where it stands today as a brand, how the corruption has resulted in the suspension of two FIFA members and the tarnished image it has left behind. Other headings discuss the concept of globalisation including technological advances, player freedom of choice and the reach FIFA has had in spreading its ethos, and the implications or aims of FIFA in achieving or attempting to gain a measure of reconciliation in the South African World Cup 2010.

Intro
FIFA has experienced a chequered history of corruption and unethical business and political practices that have clouded the image FIFA has tried to promote to the world. Business relationships that were once the mega ventures that promised immense economic returns have been revelead to have collapsed, due to the illegal activities of its members.

The most recent story circulating the news is the suspension of Qatar member Mohamed Bin Hammam in collusion with Trinidad and Tobago member Jack Warner involved in attempted persuasion of Caribbean football and government officials in order to secure advantage over Sepp Blatter in the election of the FIFA presidency.

Where does FIFA fit into society, how do we react to such allegations effecting the organisation that is supposed to be appreciated by millions of people around the world. Greed is so powerful that it blindsides people, governance is the mechanism that must oversee all business and political activities that must be undertaken ethically, reform is needed to curb the corruption. Globalisation is a real challenge in football today as it is difficult to monitor administrative protocol when the reach of FIFA extends to many nations around the world, and raises the question of can that nation be trusted, how do we know if FIFA members wont act unethically when outside the realm of HQ?

The World Cup is a stark example of how corrupt activity has infiltrated the infrastructure phases of setting up the tournament, business conflicts of interests involved with marketing and advertising rights and what the world cup has done for Africa beyond the tournament and progression into the future

Perhaps the solution to the problem starts at the top with, Sepp Blatter the FIFA president, which may prove to be a contentious issue due to the fact that HQ is in Switzerland, which as a neutral nation, enjoys tax exemption and immunity from anti-corruption policies, the Swiss government will take three years to investigate its protected policies, which will be a complicated matter to handle given the fact that Switzerland has multiple presidents who each have an equal share of power The Guardian, 2011.

Corruption and the Toll it Takes
Sepp Blatter, has had the difficult job of defending the image of FIFA in light of the bidding to gain hosting rights for the upcoming 2018 and 2022 World Cups. The scandal or allegations being laid against such bidding nations like Qatar, supposedly embroiled in corruption over Russia being awarded the rights to host the 2018 World Cup and Qatar to subsequently follow in 2022. Mohammed Bin Hammam and Jack Warner from Qatar and Trinidad and Tobago respectively have been at the centre of the controversy, both were involved in a financial cover up located in the Carribean in order to secure majority votes over Sepp Blatter. Mohammed Bin Hammam and Jack Warner were both suspended from any involvement in further footballing activities pending further investigation. Both significant figures within the FIFA member hierarchy have brought shame to the organisation in an attempt to sway a nations voting stance in favour of one illegitimate party.

What makes the issue more frightening and ultimately crippling is mention of Russian Mafia influence over Russian football, including match fixing etc. [FIFA World Cup 2018, 2022 Decision Disaster: FIFA Corruption?, 2010]. In such circumstances does Sepp Blatter feel in control? it is intimidating when practices like unethical gift giving, exerting dangerous influence over an organisation in order to win hosting rights are in contradiction to the rules of conduct set out, [Code Of Ethics]. Sepp Blatter has made it clear that he will tackle corruption head on in his fourth term as president, adopting a zero tolerance on corruption doctrine. The ethics committee have stated that players that confess to corruption, for instance being involved with illegal activity where they are receiving financial benefits outside of contract agreements, player penalties can be reduced by the committee, The Times of India, 2011. Sepp Blatter is at the tip of the iceberg, corruption is dangerous to tackle in itself, it must be cleaned up, although what happens when criminal activity that is funding economies is stymied because the universal norm is that it is wrong. Important to note is the corruption being documented in nations like Israel, Italy, Greece etc. organised crime is at the forefront of the organisation, countries like Italy and especially Greece are fiscal sinkholes are at their hands and knees from powerful thugs who control and monopolise their nations through sport gambling.

Sepp Blatter needs to reassure all FIFA confederations that a solution to corruption requires the assistance of all players, officials, parties involved whether involved in the business, political motivations or interests of playing under various confederations. What FIFA cannot guarantee is player safety from coming forward and providing evidence indicting individuals who are involved in illegal activity and what consequences will become following players inherently attempting to do the right thing. The big picture in FIFA's eyes would most probably be what happens when pandoras box is opened, violence and intimidation is what i come back to. There are networks out there that have powerful influence over political opinion, and FIFA need to tread carefully in their manner of conducting business with clients, who knows who's bed that client or partner is in with. FIFA's reputation and its relations with all confederations has been tainted, there is a lack of transparency amongst members and even business associates, empty promises have been made and FIFA is at a turning point, that has shaken the bonds of trust amongst associates. Sepp Blatter together with his Ex-Co members are to present anti-corruption reforms to re-instill a sense of duty and obligation to the world that FIFA is commited to stamping out corruption altogether and to rebuild diplomatic relationships with its confederations that protect there own interests [Radnedge & Bisson, 2011].

FIFA and Globalisation
FIFA or in more general terms football in a geoplotical sense, began in England and soon spread via ports in Europe and further abroad to Latin America. Football grew and encompassed the world in the early 20th century with railway networks and eventually media/television followed suit, globalisation is the great venture of FIFA to naturally expand into new territories and to ultimately develop and strengthen partnerships with many nations Coerts, 2010. FIFA as an organisation is an empire like body that is attempting to conquer nations but not in an oppressive military manner, but to preach or share gifts that the game promotes, to increase awareness of the power sport has in binding and eliminating prejudices that divide a country's minority groups.

Breaking down ethnic barriers, improving and extending the reach of global communication, and even the notion of cross border players that may have reservations about playing for championship league teams, regardless of qualms about past country to country hostilities are free to sign with clubs in an open market economy, Boniface, 2002, p. 3. Globalisation can however be frightening in some cases where there are cultural shocks for migration of players, for instance coming from poor nations to rich nations or vice versa, the danger can lie in the safety of player management for instance, is the government corrupt or is the mafia involved in football which is prevalent in Russian and Colombian football. Now Sepp Blatter may not be innocent but unable to be asserted to be guilty, cross border transfers of star players may not always be secure from dangerous people, involuntarily a player may be helping finance further criminal activity without player knowledge.

Sponsorship is a globalisation aspect of modern football, the nexus of business and sport, player signings usually include sponsorship deals when signing on with clubs, Nike, Reebok etc. Sport and business have dramatically changed the scope of international competition, winning or losing doesnt just affect the team, sponsors or stakeholders have gambled and the result can significantly effect their market share. Players are not only the representation of a club, a company (Tiger Woods and Nike for example) have taken the gamble to invest in that team/players, organised crime can eventuate from poor performance or to gain favourable advantage over rivals, match fixing or faking injuries etc. When a team is performing poorly the result may be informal/threatening deals made behind closed doors between players and seedy characters that present frightening ultimatums, to entrap players within a crime syndicate that have the power to destroy reputations.

Reconciliation is a major factor in the globalisation trend toward FIFA expanding their organisation into other nations, Japan and Korea is a stark example of a severe division. Globalisation or a sense of peace has not been achieved through football in both nations, regardless of a measure of reconciliation achieved in grass roots level, political and culutral differences stand in the way of complete reconciliation. FIFA will keep expanding globally, the game will reach almost every nation on the planet, yet some historical differences cannot be mended, both Asian nations in their minds eye view the spread of football as an exertion of economic westernisation. Both superpowers in the electronics and technology industries during WWII and Cold War, heavily dependent on the west for oil and both militarily fierce, with factions of right wing and conservative political motivations, have been unable to achieve a measure of peace between each other. One way it can be accomplished is on the world stage by competing in a sport that has no rival, sport cannot heal decades of political, economic, cultural hostilities, it only expresses the freedom of nations to embrace football as a distraction from the complexities of the world Manzenreiter & Horne, 2004.

World Cup 2010
The 2010 FIFA World Cup was a global presentation to the world to showcase Africa as a continent through the beautiful game, in a much grander level it was to help unite each African nation and to perhaps achieve 'detente'. Although once the crowds dispersed and the champagne celebrations finished, the capitalist's were that much better off, able to return to their luxurious palaces, revelling in the fact that the poor stay poor and the rich stay rich, the great tragedy of the 2010 World cup for FIFA is that the real victors were not Spain, but the capitalist leaches.

The reality of setting up and hosting an event like the 2010 World Cup involves substantial monetary investments to finance the event, here in lies the danger or the likelihood of 'conflicts of interests to arise. The South African Government committed billions of Rands in investments in logistics, infrastructure, communication, security etc. to ensure the World Cup was a success. However apart of the creation of the world cup includes things like improving infrastructure and developing businesses around the stadiums and associated partners, here in lies the problem. Transparency International express that heavily financed projects like setting up a countries infrastructure in preparation for a World Cup, make it easy to conceal corrupt business activities including: varied labour sizes, inflated equipment pricing, bribes/fraud etc. become lost in the complex contracting system Schulz-Herzenberg, 2010. It is almost impossible for FIFA to impose clearly defined governance policies because the corruption has dispersed to such a devastating effect, the competition on field may be fierce, but the behind the scenes political, criminal competition is despicable, unethical government tenders are in abundance.

The construction industry is easily corrupted with a complex web of contractors and sub contractor with employees that make up the infrastructure labour force who are required to complete time constrained projects in time for the opening games. Public sectors intersect with private companies, kill or be killed scenarios, illegal award schemes undermine the system and go unnoticed because of the intricate nature of the construction industry.

World Cups are a gift to the people of that particular nation, in South Africa's case it was aimed at showcasing the African continent to the world, uniting and bringing together all the cultural, religious inequalities of each country and to bury the tragic history of the continent. The tournament has hopefully left behind a legacy something to be remembered forever, sadly though beyond the glorious tournament Africa still remains a third world country, social-economic development may have been minutely increased due to GNP, capitalism and corruption reigned supreme, exploiting a political, altruist expression of freedom. Africa still remains divided as history demonstrates with colonialism from Europe and abroad, which is the main problem, FIFA have showcased Africa to the world yes. But in order for capitalism to succeed, on one side of the coin you will have the developed world and then you'll have the third world, which as demonstrated makes it very easy for corruption and exploitation to occur, a World Cup will not heal a nation, in South Africa's case it merely confirms the developed worlds scramble for riches by taking everything and leaving nothing but scraps to be fought for.

Conclusion
FIFA is an organisation, in a continuous state of crisis, due to the fact that its executive members are not to be trusted, Sepp Blatter may be guilty but the reputation or tarnished image FIFA has promoted is the most difficult task in order to regain a sense of integrity in the worlds eye. Survival of the fittest seems to be the approach taken by its members with the ultimate goal in mind of influencing or persuading poorer/less developed countries by means of bribing or illegal activity in order to gain the upper hand over opposing candidates, in this case Blatter v Bin Hamman.

Where does an organisation stand when society thinks of such an organisation? It is the top echelon or body that should spread the joy and unity of football to every nation around the world, instead of eliminating political/economic/religious boundaries dividing nations, FIFA merely conquer a nation through soccer and capitalise on the market opportunities available upon entry. Globalisation in todays world is about business, not just the opportunity for players to transfer to other international leagues but the chance for FIFA members to extort a country to gain power and control, business domination is the key, economic contribution is pushed aside.

FIFA members have immense power within their role and thus have considerable business networks which can cloud and contradict world cup celebrations for instance the FIFA World Cup 2010 South Africa. South Africa was to be a political, cultural, religious catalyst for change that could be used to unite Africa as a continent and to promote respect and tranquility through football. Although as history demonstrates with colonialism and preceding wars, that Africa will remain a third world continent, where the Europe, USA, Asia etc. who exert tremendous business power and influence over political powder kegs. Unfortunately the input of funds into a World Cup such as South Africa require extraordinary amounts of money, which in turn only produce a finite return on economic GNP, which is tragic because once the tourist head home and the celebrations cease, whats been done in benefit to Africa in terms of social, economic or political development, most likely nothing, football is not the solution to Africa!

Do we as individuals or as free willed citizens look at FIFA and think wouldn't it be great if i was playing in the English Premier League, that sits underneath the governing body, do we unanimously agree that FIFA are untrustworthy and represent the very evil that is wrong in international sport. Hypothetically an individual might be floating on cloud 9, peaking in our football careers with no care in the world, but behind the scenes, your salary/income is the result of hidden hedge funds, corporate theft. Our contract salary might be directly/indirectly related to Mafia money laundering or blood money, that requires professional players adopt a 'no questions' asked policy, just let your managers report to FIFA. It may be hard to accept that FIFA are one of the most corrupt organisations in the world, is Sepp Blatter secure on the throne free from prosecution, due to the fact that Switzerland as HQ is a neutral nation, can he be touched or will the economic criminal activity reign supreme.


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User talk:U3025472/BPS2011 Essay

Interesting topic for sure, although I started thinking it was better suited to the unit Industrial Relations in Sport. I think this topic could be made to fit BPS, you'll just need to make sure you are talking about how business the business and politics of this topic, play out on a local to international scale. At the moment, you seem to be focused on a particular code, at a state or national level, so not covering the local community game, or the international aspect of the code. See if you can structure your essay around all this. Leighblackall 10:29, 14 September 2011 (UTC)

title: User talk:U3025472/BPS2011 Essay


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User:Williamhickswi

Hello, im williamhicksw

title: User:Williamhickswi


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User talk:U3036419/Sport as a social divider

A really interesting choice of topic. Keep working on this outline, it promises a great essay. Try to use your outline to explain how you will explore this issue in the essay. You do really well at presenting two positions. Perhaps an example would be useful, such as a quote from someone representing each side. Your essay could then focus on looking at several real examples of sport dividing and uniting social groups. You could look at the tension between ethnic groups in Australian soccer, you could look at the supposed therapeutic aspects of sport for refugees, you could even include the examples of the attention given to the poor behavior of young celebrity players. Either way, you have a very political topic, you need to talk about it from a local to international scale (I'd suggest examples for each), and you need to talk about where business comes into it all Leighblackall 10:37, 14 September 2011 (UTC)


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User:M.Finemore

This is my essay for the business politics and sport. /Can Money Once Again Buy Success in the AFL/

title: User:M.Finemore


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User:M.Finemore/BPS2011 Essay

/BPS2011 Essay/

title: User:M.Finemore/BPS2011 Essay


text: File:Data and model.jpg

title: File:Data and model.jpg


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User:Jim McGriff Jr.

Jim “OJ” McGriff Jr. Web site and blog:

blog: firstlinemanager.info Site: emilyandjim.info

Philosophy

Developed over 40 years of first line management in the restaurant, motel general management, territory sales, accounting management, business office management, and dispatch center management.

I Believe:

Creating Goodwill is the most important function of any organization.

Harmony is the strength and support of all institutions.

We must know that our ideas and feelings are important to

our organization. We must have concern for people and be open to

their suggestions. Feedback is essential. Candor must always be

encouraged. Sometimes we must agree to disagree.

Personal empowerment and accountability are essential for

effective decisions. In an empowered organization everyone is a

leader. We must strive to provide value added leadership.

Teamwork is a growth process; it can not be mandated.

Change is a way of life; it is not optional.

Human dignity must be maintained in all transactions.

Civic rent is an obligation of life.

To make tomorrow better… Start today!

Have “JOY”

title: User:Jim McGriff Jr.


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User:SaurabhKB

Hi im Saurabh from the College of Engineering Pune.

title: User:SaurabhKB


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User talk:Chaagii 0817/enes100/poppit

0/0/0 don't see any documentation of personal work here 1sfoerster 01:00, 19 September 2011 (UTC)

title: User talk:Chaagii 0817/enes100/poppit


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User talk:CFurby/enes100/poppit

hey looks like you did not fill this out yet 1sfoerster 15:11, 14 September 2011 (UTC) 0/0/0 .. did not fill anything out 1sfoerster 22:11, 18 September 2011 (UTC)

title: User talk:CFurby/enes100/poppit


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User:Chaagii 0817

-Here is link for poppit Poppit/Howard Community College/Fall2011/501 robots

-Here is the link to my team page for my first project Flyers

-Here is the link to my team page for my second project Eagles

-Here is the link to my team page for my second project App

title: User:Chaagii 0817


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Helicopter/Howard Community College

Howard Community College is starting this project in the fall of 2011. The goal is to give those that program and/or game a very specific programming project.
 * /Fall2012/
 * /Spring2012/
 * /Fall2011/
 * /HelicopterSummary/

title: Helicopter/Howard Community College


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Helicopter/Howard Community College/Fall2011

/501_Flyers/

/502_Helicopter/

/501_Eagles/

/502_Helicopter 2/

/502_Helicopter 3/

/550_Helicopter/

/501_Drones/


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Helicopter/Howard Community College/Fall2011/501 Flyers

Problem Statement
The AR Drone has no RC Remote. The team members will individually find ways to fly and power up the helicopter. Dcalderon found Apps through an Android phone but the Apps were not successfully connecting to the AR Drone due to no wifi connectivity establishing with the Drone and devices. Using a PC, we will try to fly the AR Drone using an XBOX Kinect.

Team Members

 * Dcalderon
 * Chaagii
 * dkromer

Summary
The team is researching ways to fly the AR Drone through multiple pieces of machines. One of the members will try to successfully fly the Drone through an Android powered phone, another will try to fly the Drone through an IPod touch, and lastly another member will try to fly the Drone through a PC.

The First Member ::Dcalderon:

Researched for applications through the Android market to fly the helicopter, an application was found which is called ARDrone Demo which is also free. Next step is to make sure the App will power the helicopter. After learning some of the features of the Drone, wifi connection was configured and successful flight of the Drone. Even though the Android powered the Drone, there is still need to learn how to properly fly the Drone.

The Second Member ::Chaagii:

Found another App through an IPod touch, which is Called A.R Drone free application. After researching some information from online; I found some good source that shows how to control A.R Drone from IPhone and IPod touch. I followed that instruction; however, at the the first and second time I was not able connect my IPod touch to A.R Drone because of wifi. From IPod touch, wifi was unable to see because first A.R Drone should be unpaired. Finally, I was able to figure out all the problems for IPod touch was able to control A.R Drone.

The Third Member ::dkromer:

Configured a wifi connection with the AR Drone and my laptop; absolute connection is still being established. Wifi-connection to the pc was a success by changing the internet properties and configuring internet protocol 4 and changing the SSID numbers according to the drone's connection codes.

Week 1
We downloaded some application for IPod Touch and Android. First, we had problems how to connect Ar.Drone from IPod Touch and Android. Therefore, we researched information through online and we found out important information from Ar drone official siteAndroid, All together. After that we followed steps that shown on tutorial, so we was able to control Ar.Drone.

Week 2
We tested how to fly A.R Drone from IPod Touch and Android. Also, we discovered how to record video by using Ar.Drone camera from Android, so we recorded some video by using A.R Drone and posted in our personal weekly page.

Week 3
We supposed to start to use X-box Kinect to control Ar .Drone, but we had problem with Ar. Drone. When we tried to fly it one of propeller was not working. Some fellow from another group broke AR.Drone propeller, so we tried to fix that propeller. We took some parts of propeller because some parts were loose. After that we put all parts where it should be. Then, we tried to fly Ar.drone and it was working perfectly.

Week 4
We have a windows 7 powered PC and we will try to connect an XBOX Kinect to the PC. The Kinect was successfully installed on to the PC, the next step would be to have it working so that it can capture your motions and use it as commands to fly the Drone. We downloaded PC application for Ar. Drone; however, that program not working because in order to use that program we need download Direct X. Every time when we download it, we are having viruses.

Poster
We took some pictures of A.R Drone, which is on the right side.

Story
The Parrot AR drone is part of a new innovative wireless quadricopter, controlled through a cellphone, and recently added android operating systems. The drone broadcasts its own wifi network, and binds itself to the first device it locates. The drone's network has no encryption codes The company, Parrot, was founded by Henri Seydoux in 1994 to enhance the capabilities of mobile cellphone use. The AR drone operates through wifi connection to a cellphone. The drone was initially remote controlled using an Iphone, which was controlled using a camera on the front of the drone. Once the piloting software was manipulated, remote control could be used with android operating systems in cell pones too. The wifi connection that enables the drone to fly also was discovered to work with computers and desktops. Recently, the AR drone wifi connection was modified to be remote controlled using Xbox Kinect, in which one uses their body to control the drone. Quadricopters like the Parrot AR Drone have significantly more stability than regular helicopters, and use a very convenient wireless system.

Decision List
Our team think that using Android, Iphone, and Itouch are the easiest way to control AR Drone, because those are easy to figure out and easy to carry it. However, downloading AR Drone programm for PC and MAC are difficult to understand. It takes time to figure out.

Material List

 * - 4 x 15W Electric Brushless Motors (3,500 rpm)
 * - 4 carbon tube propellers
 * - VGA (640 x 480) CMOS Camera
 * - QCIF (176 x 144) High Speed Camera (CMOS)
 * - Altimeter
 * -Internal Guidance System:

- MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) - 3 Axis Accelerometer - 2 Axis Gyroscope - 1 Axis Yaw Precision Gyroscope
 * -Embedded Computer

- ARM9 RISC 32bit 468MHz - 128MB DDR RAM -Wifi b/g - Linux OS   - USB Socket
 * -AR.Drone packaging content:

1 AR.Drone, 1 indoor hull, 1 outdoor hull, 1 battery, 1 charger, 4 mains adapters

Software List

 * -IPod touch4

- IPod touch 4 32G Version 4.3.1(8G4) - Itunes10- Download A.R Drone free application.

 * -Android

- Android version 2.2 (or a later version) - Download ARdrone Demo application - Multitouch function - Accelerometer
 * -PC

- Windows7 - Download AR.Drone Firmware - Download DirectX9 or newer versions
 * -Xbox

- Xbox Kinect

Time
Week 1

We are spent about 4-5 hours for "Flyers" project(IPod Touch, Android, Computer). Each member spent 2-3 hours outside of class.

Week 2 We are spent 3-4 hours for "Flyers" project(XBox Kinect).

Week 3 We are spent about 5-6 hours for Pc because we were not able to connect Ar. Drone. from Pc.

Week 4

We are spent 2-3 hours due to class cancellation.

Tutorials
So far this video is the best explanation how to download AR Drone for PC. For IPod touch, IPad, IPhone, Mac, and PC see the instruction how it works instruction)and video how to install AR Drone for PC). There is some instruction for Android Android that you can follow.

Next Steps
For the next step we should try to control AR Drone from Xbox or Playstation remote controller. Also, we should try to use wii remote controller if it is possible to use. Also, we are going to use X-box Kinect. I would recommend you to install games to your Itouch, IPad, and IPhone, so you can able to play in virtual world. For the next step, we need to start work on arduino. Also, we had better to find battery that last long. Every-time we had problem with battery because we need to charge two hours just to control 15 minutes. However, Ar.Drone not even last 15 minutes. One idea for batteries would be an old laptop battery or two laptop batteries run in series. Laptop batteries contain a great power to weight ratio.


text:
User:Dcaldero8983/enes100/flyers

Link back to Flyers Team Page

Give instructor top 3 project choice list
My top three project preferences were 1. Helicopter, 2. Hovercraft, and 3. Engine.

Write problem statement
The Drone has ADHOC wifi connection that can pair up to any device with wifi connection. My Android phone has wifi connection but was not recieving succeful connection.

Assign Task1
Connect Android powered phone with AR Drone and establish flight.

Compare actual work done to Task1
I was able to fly the AR Drone with my Android powered phone

Week1 Narrative
This AR Drone was not establishing connection via wifi with any device. The lights on the bottom of the drone as well as under each propeller, where lit as red meaning there is no pairing with any device. When the light turns green, this mean that there has been a pairing with another device.

Week1 Peer Review
Go to each team mates weekly summary wiki page. Read their activities and narrative. Then go the associated discussion page. Say something positive on this page. Try some constructive criticism. Add your name and 1sfoerster 13:32, 28 August 2011 (UTC) to create a time and date stamp. Create a new category if another team mate has already commented here.

Assign Task2
Research through the internet for videos of methods to fly the drone other then using applications with devices like IPods and Android. Also look for software to link up PC with the Drone.

Compare actual work done to Task2
The Xbox Kinect is working with the PC and captures all movements. Good performing programs and software is still being searched so that it could function the Kinect as a remote capturing body movements that will send signals to the Drone and undergo flight.

Week2 Narrative
I recorded a short video of the Drone in live from the view of its Camera. As you can see the Drone was being flown for a few seconds before it landed and then picked up by me. This is just to help you visualize how you would have to view through the camera in live action in order to fly the Drone and spy without being seen in person. The video can be seen on youtube when clicked on the blue link that follows The Drone.

Week2 Peer Review
I left positive review for fellow team mates as well as encouraged another team mate to include information to their individual weekly summary wiki pages.

Assign Task3
I still need to find the correct software or program that will operate with the Kinect, PC, and Drone all together. Im still in search due to that previous softwares were scams and only full of viruses.

Compare actual work done to Task3
Working on the drone during week 3 we surfaced a few problems. First, the laptop caught a virus from one of the software's we were trying to install in order to work the kinect with the Drone through the PC. After that, we noticed that the drone was not taking flight as one of the propellers was not functioning right and the drone would automatically cut off. We managed to fix the propellor and i was once again able to establish flight through my android. As the 4 weeks of working on the drone are almost over, i decided to go ahead and observe how much weight the drone can pick up off the ground and fly over ground. I quickly tied a string and a weight of 50g to the drone and the drone took off, even though it is a lot harder flying the drone successfully with a heavy weight compared to the capacity the drone can handle as the drone would loose its balance.

Week3 Narrative
The drone is hard to fly steady with weight attached to it especially with a string that is dangling the weight. In this video you can see the drone take off with 50g of weight attached to you, the video was recorded using both cameras that the drone has, the front camera and the camera underneath the drone filming anything underneath it. The Drone carrying 50g

Week3 Peer Review
Comments for both team members were made for week 3 in their discussion page

Assign Task4
Week 4 is our last week to work on this project, we plan on working harder to hopefully get the kinect to work in full with the laptop and drone. In the meanwhile i will try to find a more sophisticated way to attach weight to the drone so the drone can fly steadily with a maximum capacity of weight for the drone which is at greater than or equal to 50g.

Compare actual work done to Task4
Week 4 was extremely short since Monday class was canceled and most of the students werent in class, then on Wednesday we were introduced to our new project as well as our new team members. This took up most of the time wednesday and so all that was done for week 4 was to find out what weight the drone could not pick up. The drone could not manage to pick up anything more than 60 grams of weight properly and it still had a lot of trouble in flight and balancing.

Week4 Peer Review
Comments to team member's pages were made in their discussion page.

Complete Project Page
The time period of 4 weeks are over with and much was done with the drone. Even though we weren't able to successfully fly the drone using the Kinect, we are still working on the drone for the next 4 weeks and we have an addition to our team adding one more member to help push this project even further. My next target is working the arduino to help control the accelerometer of the drone.

10/10/0 .... lack of class time is not an excuse ... room was open ... could have worked at home ... 1sfoerster 13:44, 17 October 2011 (UTC)

title: User:Dcaldero8983/enes100/flyers


text:
User:Drew Dollas/enes100

 * Poppit Team Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/Poppit/Howard_Community_College/Fall2011/501_boring
 * HoverCraft Team Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/HoverCraft/Howard_Community_College/Fall2011/501_Glorious#Team_Members
 * HoverCraft 2 Team Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/HoverCraft/Howard_Community_College/Fall2011/501_Glorious2
 * HoverCraft 3 Team Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/HoverCraft/Howard_Community_College/Fall2011/501_Glorious3
 * Poppit Projects Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/w/index.php?title=User:Drew_Dollas/enes100/poppit
 * HoverCraft Projects Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/User:Drew_Dollas/enes100/glorious
 * HoverCraft 2 Projects Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/User:Drew_Dollas/enes100/Glorious2
 * HoverCraft 3 Projects Page: http://en.wikiversity.org/wiki/User:Drew_Dollas/enes100/Glorious3

title: User:Drew Dollas/enes100


text:
User:MrFidaAliEngr/Noorbakhsh

Syed Muhammad Noorbakhsh, a 14th/15th century AD religious scholar and reformer, is regarded and revered as one of the earliest preachers of Islam in Baltistan. Most of the learned people (native) of Baltistan believe that he wrote the book 'Alfiqah-al-Ahwat' and claimed it to be an authentic learning resource with respect to Islamic teachings. Some people raise questions about the authenticity of currently available printed/translated forms of this book as the original book was in handwritten form. Other prominent Islamic preachers include Syed Ali Hamdani, who is famously known as Shah-e-Hamdan, Syed Mehmood, whose Mazar is located at Kushoobagh, Skardu, and Syed Nasir, whose Mazar is located at Kwardo, Skardu. These and many other Mazars are considered religiously sacred places.

title: User:MrFidaAliEngr/Noorbakhsh


text:
Engineering Projects/HoverCraft/Howard Community College

Howard Community College is starting this project in the fall of 2011. The goal is to give those that program and/or game a very specific programming project.
 * /Fall2012/
 * /Spring2012/
 * /Fall2011/


text:
Engineering Projects/BallBot/Howard Community College

 * /Fall2011/
 * /Spring2012/


text:
3D Scan/Kinect Makerbot/Howard Community College

Howard Community College is starting this project in the fall of 2011. The goal is to give those that program and/or game a very specific programming project.

Project Teams

 * /Spring2012/
 * /Fall2011/

3D Scan Project
Accomplishments of Fall 2011's team:

Scannning Set up the infrared laser manually, and downloaded additional software (Meshlab and MakerScanner). Video of an object being scanned with MakerScanner

MakerBot MakerBot Cupcake CNC Printing a Wrench

Tutorials

 * HCC MakerBot Cupcake CNC Procedure


text:
3D Scan/Kinect Makerbot/Howard Community College/Fall2011

/501_cupcakes/


text:
Engineering Projects/BallBot/Howard Community College/Fall2011

 * /501_BBotz/
 * /501_BBotz2/


text:
Engineering Projects/HoverCraft/Howard Community College/Fall2011

 * /501_Glorious/
 * /501_Glorious2/
 * /501_Glorious3/
 * /501_spsonic/
 * /550_HCJ/


text:
Engineering Projects/HoverCraft/Howard Community College/Fall2011/501 Floaters

Team Members
Put each team members name here with links to their personal page here. Real names do not have to be used.
 * jjjj
 * kkkk

Software List
Installing and learning different software packages is part of most engineering project just like the materials list.

Time
Time estimates and actual time consumed measurements helps justify salaries (grades). The only way to gain respect for estimated project time and costs is to practice.

Tutorials
Most projects consist of making instructions to jump start the next team, shrink the learning of tools and software to the minimum, advice on where to purchase materials, how to assemble, etc. Tutorials modified or created are described here with links.

Next Steps
If this is not filled out, the next team may have to repeat each of your steps just to figure out what the next step is. It is best to write this immediately at the end of the project while creating the summary, poster, presentation, and story.


text:
Engineering Projects/BallBot/Howard Community College/Fall2011/501 BBotz

Problem Statement
Our team goal is to make the Ballbot stand on its head and remotely rotate a basketball balanced in its wheels.

Team Members

 * Corey
 * Kang
 * Teddy Hanson

Summary

 * Week 0
 * We created a team page and individual pages. Looked at and examined the parts of the ballbot and the arduino.

 * Week 1
 * Uploaded photos of dismantled ballbot. Learned where the project was left off and how we as a group are going to push it foward. Decided to focus on spinning/rotating the ball as opposed to balancing the ball. May decide later in the project if the spinning of the ball is sucessful to balance on the ball.

 * Week 2
 * Realized we cannot continue with the present part that we have. Missing one wheel motor, the upper half the the ballbot, the circuit board for the ballbot, and the remote. It is just a mess with no screws and lots of buttons missing. So we ordered three additional ballbots (Tribots) from amazon for thirteen dollars.

 * Week 3
 * We ordered the wrong ballbot. It is actually the mini version of the ballbot so we ordered the right one. Also we took apart the mini ballbot and figured out that there is nothing we can use to push the project, but we got the motor of an old ballbot running using the battery source of the smaller ballbot.

 * Week 4
 * The BIG ballbot came in! We played around with it and got comfortable with how it works and reacts to certain buttons on the remote.

Decision List
Chose to focus on spinning the basketball as opposed to balancing on top of it.

Material List
Ballbot and all related components

Arduino

Basketball

Software List
Arduino


text:
Engineering Projects/Car Hack/Howard Community College

 * /Spring2012/
 * /Fall2011/


text:
3D Scan/Kinect Makerbot/Howard Community College/Fall2011/501 cupcakes

Problem Statement
Past attempts using the X-BOX Kinect Camera, and ReplicatorG to convert an STL file to Gcode, and then operating the MakerBot Cupcake CNC have been successful at printing a 3-D object, but these attempts have been unsuccessful in creating a video.

Team Members
Here is a list of the team members working on this project. The links to their individual project pages are also given:
 * Baminnick
 * Alex
 * Andrew

Summary
There are three overall aspects to complete this project: 1) Operating the MakerBot 2) Scanning an object manually 3) Using the Kinect to capture a 3D image of an object. While using the MakerBot in this project, an understanding of how to print objects was developed and a procedure was the ultimate result. This procedure allows a future ENES-100 student to operate the MakerBot without difficulty. Scanning an object manually was completed by using an infrared laser, video camera, MeshLab, and MakerScanner. With these materials, one could scan an object that is rotating and develop an STL file that can be printed. We were unable to complete this because it is difficult to scan an object manually. Using the Kinect to capture a 3D image of an object is a result of a more effective manner than scanning an object manually. In this project, viewing and operating the Kinect camera was completed. In conclusion, these three aspects were completed to the best of the groups abilities for the benefit of the ENES-100 class.

Poster
Team photos of this project are shown throughout this page:

Here are youtube videos developed from someone working on the MakerBot:
 * Homemade MakerBot 3D Printer
 * Make a 3D Laser Scanner
 * 3D Printing of a Wrench
 * Video of an object being scanned with MakerScanner

Here are youtube videos that we have developed to help others working on the MakerBot:
 * Setting Up the MakerBot Cupcake CNC
 * Centering the Work Table under the MakerBot Motor
 * MakerBot Cupcake CNC Test Extrusion
 * MakerBot Cupcake CNC Printing

Story
The first week of this project was spent on how to use the HCC MakerBot Cupcake CNC. We tried to create an STL file with the CAD program Blender. However, we were unable to save the file as an STL and therefore upload it into Replicator G. Our solution to this problem was to use thingiverse.com and download a ready object. Then we uploaded the file into Replicator G, and successfully we were ready to develop the GCode to print. At the same time, an issue occured regarding the connection between Replicator G and the MakerBot. Our solutions to this problem were to use other serial ports, reconnect the COM connection using a Replicator G command, and re plugin the cord. The solution to this was to use the connection command in Replicator G. Once the setup was completed, another problem occurred as we attempted to control the work table. The work table did not create a adhesive source which would allow the object to be printed. Through testing, our solution to this was to cover the work table with double sided tape. The product of this investigation was the MakerBot Procedure which outlines how the MakerBot should be used.

Once a general idea of the MakerBot was uncovered, we moved onto working with the X-Box 360 Kinect camera. The problem was how to operate the Kinect on Windows. The solution was to download a software package called, "CL NUI Platform Driver." This software package allowed the user to view what the kinect viewed, however it did not display a capture image or video function. A solution to this problem did not evolve through the team, but however the class. This problem was presented to the class, at which point the class discussed possible solutions to this problem. The solutions were to place a video camera near the software image on the computer screen, or record what is shown through another software package.

The major issue that occurred in the third week was scanning an object with an infrared laser. The first problem was downloading programs that can scan an object. Through research, we found MakerScanner and MeshLab, which are programs that can scan the object and develop an STL file. The next problem was setting up the laser and the computer at a right angle. To develop a good scan, the user must be able to use the computer without producing any light pollution. Our solution to this was to use a different camera, and so we found a movable camera that was still able to take a video but not produce any light like the computer's camera. After the object was scanned using MakerScanner, another problem occurred, downloading the file onto MeshLab. MeshLab did not develop an effective model to print. We found that the solution to this was to do trial and error, some models were better if the camera's position or laser's position changed.

The last week was spent summing up the project. Time was spent on determining what future groups can do to push the project forward. The future groups can use the items which we produced. These objects were: The aspects of this project that need to be pushed forward are the X-Box 360 Kinect and using this camera to capture an image and print it, and improve the methods of capturing an image with MakerScanner.
 * MakerBot Procedure
 * Video MakerBot Cupcake CNC Printing
 * Video of an object being scanned with MakerScanner

Decision List
Here is a list of the formal decisions which we thought were necessary to complete the project:
 * 1. Understand how the MakerBot Cupcake CNC operates.
 * 2. Understand how ReplicatorG converts an STL file into Gcode.
 * 3. Develop a MakerBot Cupcake CNC Procedure.
 * 4. Set up the infrared laser manually, and download additional software (Meshlab and MakerScanner).
 * 5. Attempt to scan an image using the downloaded software from step 4.
 * 6. Convert the scanned image into an STL file to possibly print.
 * 7. Connect the X-Box 360 Kinect with a downloaded software package and learn how to use it.
 * 8. Use the Kinect to develop a 3D image or video of an object.
 * 9. Convert this image into an STL file that can be printed.

Material List
The hardware we used in this project is shown in the list below:
 * MakerBot Cupcake CNC, for printing an object
 * X-Box Kinect camera, for taking a video of an object to print
 * Wine glass to refract the light the laser emits
 * Rubber band, for stablizing the laser
 * Metrologic neon laser, to produce a visible infrared beam which can scan an object
 * Computer with necessary software, to upload scanned images and print

Software List
The software we used for this project is shown in the list below:
 * A CAD program which develops STL files, such as Blender or Autodesk 123D
 * ReplicatorG, to convert an STL file into GCode
 * Kinect Software Package, for using the X-Box Kinect Camera on the computer
 * Maker Scanner, to scan an object
 * Meshlab, to convert a scanned image into an STL file

Time
As a team, we spent two hours in class and three hours outside of class every week on average. Seperately, each individual member spent about five hours every week. So in four weeks, the team spent twenty hours together. And individually, each team member spent about twenty hours in four weeks. Therefore the total time spent on this project is seventy to eighty hours.

Tutorials
HCC MakerBot Cupcake CNC Procedure

Next Steps
We have completed much in the 3D Scan project, however certain tasks have yet to be accomplished. These tasks can be completed by another team working on this 3D Scan project. We have determined how to use the makerbot, how to operate the X-Box 360 Kinect, and how to use an infrared laser and software to scan an object. From these findings, we developed a MakerBot Procedure that others can follow to use the MakerBot, and a method for capturing a scanned object video.

However we were unable to completely scan a 3D object manually (we were able to do about 60% of it though) as in set everything up yourself using the laser and the camera. So the next step would be to capture a kinect video using a lazy susan to rotate the object. Doing this may require trial and error to complete a proper STL file that can be printed. But, with the products we created and the youtube videos that have been posted, the next team can start directly from where we left off.

We definitely recommend this project to anybody in our class. Who ever may be reading this and working on this project best of luck with pushing this project forward.