Latest news with #OlympicGoldMedallist
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
When Olympic Kremlin kid impressed Saints boss
How many English clubs can proudly boast of having an Olympic gold medallist grace their hallowed turf? While the definitive answer remains elusive for now, we can say with absolute certainty that our Southampton Football Club stands among this elite group! Advertisement Aleksey Cherednik, etched his name into Olympic history as a pivotal member of the Soviet Union's football team, which magnificently secured the gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. It was this very prowess that caught the discerning eye of then-Saints boss Chris Nicholl. The year was 1989, and Dnepr, Cherednik's club at the time, paid a visit to The Dell for a pre-season friendly in August. Read more: Cherednik's talent was undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on Nicholl. Within a few short months, a hefty sum of £300,000 was dispatched to Russia, a sign of Southampton's determination to bring this Olympic champion to English shores. Advertisement However, the wheels of international transfers often grind slowly, and it wasn't until March 1990 that the deal was finally concluded, largely due to the intricate process of securing a work permit. When Aleksey Cherednik finally made his much-anticipated debut against Queens Park Rangers in April 1990, he wasn't just playing a football match; he was unknowingly making history. He became the first-ever Russian player to feature in the top flight of English football, laying the groundwork for the "Russian invasion" of talent we see so prominently in the Premier League today. It was a groundbreaking moment, a true sign of the evolving global landscape of the beautiful game. Advertisement Sadly, Cherednik's time at The Dell, though historically significant, was neither lengthy nor ultimately prosperous on the pitch. During the protracted period of his transfer, a young and promising talent named Jason Dodd had seized the opportunity, firmly establishing himself in the right-back position. While Cherednik was initially given the nod, he found it challenging to fully adapt to the relentless pace and unique demands of the English game. His natural inclination to surge forward, a trait that served him well in more expansive leagues, often left him exposed defensively in the Premier League's unforgiving environment. By the seventh game of the 1990/91 season, Jason Dodd had emphatically reclaimed his starting spot, and it became increasingly clear that Aleksey's days as a first-team regular were numbered. Read more: Almost exactly a year to the day of his groundbreaking debut, Cherednik played his final game for Southampton. By then, not only did Saints have Dodd excelling at right-back, but they also had the talent of Jeff Kenna vying for the same position, further limiting Cherednik's opportunities. Advertisement Despite effectively being out of the first-team picture, it would be another two years before Cherednik officially departed The Dell. He became something of a forgotten man under the new manager, Ian Branfoot, toiling in the reserves. His final appearance for the club, ironically, came on the third anniversary of his first-team debut. With his playing career drawing to a close, Aleksey eventually returned to Russia, where he continued to play for several clubs before embarking on a new chapter - management. For the past 24 years, his keen eye for talent has been put to excellent use as a scout for the formidable Ukrainian club, Shakhtar Donetsk. Advertisement So, while Aleksey Cherednik's playing career at Southampton may have been a brief chapter, his arrival marked a significant milestone in English football history, forever linking our club with an Olympic gold medallist and the pioneering spirit of international talent. It certainly makes you wonder, doesn't it, about the other hidden Olympic gems in English football's past?
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
When Olympic Kremlin kid impressed Saints boss
How many English clubs can proudly boast of having an Olympic gold medallist grace their hallowed turf? While the definitive answer remains elusive for now, we can say with absolute certainty that our Southampton Football Club stands among this elite group! Aleksey Cherednik, etched his name into Olympic history as a pivotal member of the Soviet Union's football team, which magnificently secured the gold medal at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. It was this very prowess that caught the discerning eye of then-Saints boss Chris Nicholl. The year was 1989, and Dnepr, Cherednik's club at the time, paid a visit to The Dell for a pre-season friendly in August. Read more: The influential but controversial family that shaped Southampton When gang pulled off Southampton's most daring museum heist Why is Bitterne called Bitterne and who's to blame for the confusion? Cherednik's talent was undeniable, leaving a lasting impression on Nicholl. Within a few short months, a hefty sum of £300,000 was dispatched to Russia, a sign of Southampton's determination to bring this Olympic champion to English shores. However, the wheels of international transfers often grind slowly, and it wasn't until March 1990 that the deal was finally concluded, largely due to the intricate process of securing a work permit. When Aleksey Cherednik finally made his much-anticipated debut against Queens Park Rangers in April 1990, he wasn't just playing a football match; he was unknowingly making history. He became the first-ever Russian player to feature in the top flight of English football, laying the groundwork for the "Russian invasion" of talent we see so prominently in the Premier League today. It was a groundbreaking moment, a true sign of the evolving global landscape of the beautiful game. Sadly, Cherednik's time at The Dell, though historically significant, was neither lengthy nor ultimately prosperous on the pitch. During the protracted period of his transfer, a young and promising talent named Jason Dodd had seized the opportunity, firmly establishing himself in the right-back position. While Cherednik was initially given the nod, he found it challenging to fully adapt to the relentless pace and unique demands of the English game. His natural inclination to surge forward, a trait that served him well in more expansive leagues, often left him exposed defensively in the Premier League's unforgiving environment. By the seventh game of the 1990/91 season, Jason Dodd had emphatically reclaimed his starting spot, and it became increasingly clear that Aleksey's days as a first-team regular were numbered. Read more: Hedge End's vital role in D-Day and how it took a tragic hit Club was packed on this very special night - and all fears were quashed Landmark most of us travel past without a second glance Almost exactly a year to the day of his groundbreaking debut, Cherednik played his final game for Southampton. By then, not only did Saints have Dodd excelling at right-back, but they also had the talent of Jeff Kenna vying for the same position, further limiting Cherednik's opportunities. Despite effectively being out of the first-team picture, it would be another two years before Cherednik officially departed The Dell. He became something of a forgotten man under the new manager, Ian Branfoot, toiling in the reserves. His final appearance for the club, ironically, came on the third anniversary of his first-team debut. With his playing career drawing to a close, Aleksey eventually returned to Russia, where he continued to play for several clubs before embarking on a new chapter - management. For the past 24 years, his keen eye for talent has been put to excellent use as a scout for the formidable Ukrainian club, Shakhtar Donetsk. So, while Aleksey Cherednik's playing career at Southampton may have been a brief chapter, his arrival marked a significant milestone in English football history, forever linking our club with an Olympic gold medallist and the pioneering spirit of international talent. It certainly makes you wonder, doesn't it, about the other hidden Olympic gems in English football's past?
Daily Mail
12-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Olympic legend Leisel Jones opens up about mental health struggles after sparking concern on social media
Leisel Jones has spoken candidly about her mental health struggles, after sparking concern with a recent Instagram post. Earlier this month, the broadcaster and Olympic gold medallist, 39, took to social media to share a worrying post, admitting she had thought about taking her own life. The post showed Leisel sitting on the stairs at her home with tears in her eyes, while admitting, in the caption, that she had just experienced one of her 'worst days'. 'I just wanted to die in my sleep, I thought that would be the greatest thing I could ever hope for in that moment,' Leisel told the Daily Telegraph. Leisel's post came with a second photo that showed her, the following day, having just completed a cathartic walk. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the DailyMail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. She added that she was driven to share the candid post to highlight 'the difference a day can make'. 'I was like, you know what? I'm going to post this because yesterday was really garbage and I wanted to end all of it, but today, I've just had the best walk I've ever been on,' she said. 'I'm going to post this just to show the difference a day can make.' Leisel, who said she had 'high-functioning depression' in the post, added she was driven to talk openly about her struggles with depression, as it can affect even those who appear happy on the outside. 'I am really passionate about talking about it,' she said. 'With depression, it's not always sad sacks that mope about – it impacts some of the most high-functioning people who get the job done and do it well and show up on time.' Leisel's heartbreaking post began with the simple words: 'Stay until tomorrow'. 'It's one of my favourite sayings. Yesterday was one of my worst days and I wanted to end it all.' She continued: 'I think I have been battling high-functioning depression for a little while now and have just gone back to work with a psych. 'In the dark moments I promise myself to just stay until tomorrow, and it's amazing what the next day can bring.' Leisel then explained that after getting through the depressive episode, she had a much brighter day over the next 24 hours. 'Today was spectacular. I had some free time after work and went on an hour-long walk along the beach,' she said. 'No goals. No plans. Just enjoy the sunshine and the view. I was really missing my walking buddy @iammeagennay, but walking by myself was enough. It changed my whole perspective on things. 'So if life has felt like a kick in the c**t lately, promise me you'll stay until tomorrow.' The post was met with an outpouring of support from friends and followers such as comedian Dave Hughes. 'Australia loves you, but that doesn't matter. You loving life is all that matters. But not even that. Let's just be still,' he wrote. Fellow Olympic legend Lisa Curry also offered a sympathetic: 'I know how this feels, Leisel, and it's worth staying until tomorrow. And the next tomorrow…. And the next. Remember who the f*** you are.' It comes after Leisel broke down last month while opening up about the night, 14 years ago, when she almost took her own life. The swimming legend was a guest speaker at the Albury Wodonga Winter Solstice event, where she urged people to reach out for help if they need it. Leisel admitted she contemplated suicide in 2011 while she was on a training holiday in Spain. But her coach at the time, and current Head Coach of Swimming Australia, Rohan Taylor, interrupted her and took her to get the help she desperately needed. 'I did not care for my mental health whatsoever, because it was completely neglected and was not important, and even as a youngster, when I was coming up, I was told that we were not allowed to use psychologists, because psychologists were for weak athletes,' she said. 'So I was denied access to a psychologist as a 14-year-old girl who was going to her first Olympic Games. 'And that was devastating to me, because I really could have benefited talking about mental health, because I did not believe I was a weak athlete.
Scoop
10-07-2025
- General
- Scoop
Ōkahu Bay Haul-Out Plan: A Smart, Local Solution To Protect Auckland's Marine Environment
Auckland the City of Sails - currently lacks a public haul-out yard in its central harbour. This surprising gap in a region with the most boats per capita presents a serious biosecurity risk. With international vessels arriving regularly and over 4,000 recreational boats on the water, marine pest management is now urgent. The New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club (NZMYC) - long-time advocates for responsible boating and organisers of the iconic PIC Coastal Classic Yacht Race - is leading a practical, community-led proposal to help address the issue: reopening the Ōkahu Bay haul-out yard on a reduced seasonal scale (May to December). This isn't about expansion - it's about reactivating a proven, ratepayer-funded facility to help tackle growing marine biosecurity threats, with strong community support behind it. 'Since the 2022 closure, local haul-out options have become limited,' says Adrian Percival, Commodore of NZMYC. 'As a result, many boat owners must now travel between regions simply for hull cleaning - raising the risk of spreading invasive pests like Fan Worm, Caulerpa, or the Northern Pacific Sea Star, a serious threat to shellfish and New Zealand's multi-million-dollar aquaculture industry.' Bruce Kendall, MBE, Olympic Gold Medallist, Howick Local Board Member, passionate sailor, and environmentalist supports the concept. 'The Tāmaki River is a unique ecosystem and has so far avoided some of the current plague of marine pests. The more boats that travel from the city and up the river to haul out the higher the risk. He adds: 'Many boating clubs around the country operate haul outs successfully on a volunteer basis. Bucklands Beach Yacht Club has operated a seasonal haul out for many years using the same model as that being proposed by NZMYC. This proposal needs to be accepted for the sake of the environment if nothing else.' While no single measure can solve Auckland's marine biosecurity challenges, this proposal reduces the interregional pest transfer, supports sustainable maintenance, and helps protect the Waitematā and Hauraki Gulf ecosystems. It also strengthens partnerships between recreational users and environmental goals. 'New marinas are being built without haul-out facilities. That's left a glaring gap in a city defined by boating,' says Percival. 'This proposal helps close that gap by using existing infrastructure and a community that's ready to lead.' The site already supports a range of community activities, including waka ama, dinghy storage, parking, and educational programmes. NZMYC is committed to working alongside existing users to ensure inclusive and collaborative use of the space. With thoughtful planning, everyone wins. More than 1,600 public submissions were received on the site's future, with 64% in favour of retaining haul-out capability. The proposal has also received positive engagement from Auckland Council and the Ōrākei Local Board. 'We support a vision for green spaces - but parks and healthy harbours can work together,' says Percival. 'This is about protecting our marine environment and using existing assets wisely. It's a practical solution that reflects what Aucklanders value.' Approving this plan would give the Board a rare opportunity to create a lasting legacy - one that reflects leadership in protecting the Hauraki Gulf, and one that future generations will thank them for. A locally led operation like this — small in scale but high in environmental value — empowers the boating community to take responsibility for their impact. 'It may be small, but it's smart, effective, and community-driven — a real example of the little yard that could,' says Percival. A decision from the Ōrākei Local Board is expected on 17 July. Supporters are encouraged to share their views with the Board at orakeilocalboard@ or by attending the meeting in person: 3:00pm, 17 July St Chads Church & Community Centre 38 Saint Johns Road, St Johns, Auckland
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Kevin Durant says goodbye to Phoenix Suns as trade to Houston Rockets becomes official
legend 's tenure with the Phoenix Suns is officially over. During his two full seasons there, he was the focal point of the team. However, it had trouble taking off. Now, he has been traded to the Houston Rockets. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now As soon as the trade became official on Sunday, July 6, the icon posted a goodbye message to the Phoenix Suns on his social media. Kevin Durant closes Phoenix chapter, looks ahead to new journey with Houston Rockets The sold their star player, Kevin Durant, to the Houston Rockets two weeks ago. However, the actual terms of the trade were not made public until recently. Now, once it was official, the NBA legend took to X on July 6 and announced the news. Kevin Durant used to play for the Phoenix Suns (Image via Getty Images) He also expressed gratitude to the Phoenix Suns and the organisation for their assistance during the last two years. Stating the same, he wrote: 'My time in Phoenix has come to an end. All these stops along the journey have really impacted me in a positive way. Remeber it's a world behind the scenes, and those who make things work in that space, work tirelessly to make our lives easier as players. I appreciate all the quick interactions with everybody from support staff to teammates distant cousins, it's all a family that I'm grateful to be apart of, no matter what. I truly believe this nba is a one big community. Much love to Arizona. Houston, Can't Wait!' The Houston Rockets took this action to win a major title. Over the past 16 seasons, Kevin Durant has averaged 25 points per game. He has the same for four separate teams, making him the only player in NBA history to do it. He is also a four-time Olympic Gold Medallist, a 15-time All-Star, a two-time NBA champion, and a former MVP and Finals MVP. Meanwhile, the just finished their first season with 50 wins since 2018-19. According to CBS Sports Research, they placed second in terms of rebound percentage with 53.6% and sixth in terms of defensive rating previous season. Now, Kevin Durant's presence can help them in their attempt to win what would be their first championship in over 30 years. Meanwhile, Durant can't ask for more than to have that chance in front of him. Also read:
