SOCCER PRACTICE

It may seem strange that these slaves are not practicing on a normal pitch for this week’s game, but their trainer considers that knocking the ball around on rough, hilly terrain teaches them better ball control. And of course their general level of fitness is improved from running on a hillside.

Young men like this are valuable assets, and so when not on the smooth surface of a proper pitch they are always made to wear training shoes to prevent damage to their feet.  The actual matches are always played totally naked of course (the teams being distinguished by their owners’ logos sprayed on chests and backs), and whilst many think this does not make for a “classical” game as it’s too painful to kick the ball hard, the local soccer federation’s rules require it. 

Pete Brown