Seoul Glow tells the story of the Great Britain men’s hockey team who won gold at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Little to the team’s knowledge, the final caught the British public’s imagination as they beat rivals West Germany in the gold-medal match. After Sean Kerly’s semi-final heroics and Imran Sherwani’s double in the final, BBC commentator Barry Davies uttered the now infamous line: ‘Where were the Germans? But, frankly, who cares?’ Victory, for a team of amateurs, who had either quit their jobs or taken holiday to play in Seoul, propelled the team to celebratory heights on their return to British shores; it was GB’s first hockey gold in the post-war era and followed an eight-year plan for a major title. The story also reveals how the team was inspirationally led by the late Roger Self, the manager who gelled his players into Olympic title holders.
**Seoul Glow: Relive the Unforgettable Triumph of Britain's Olympic Hockey Heroes** Step back into the electrifying atmosphere of the 1988 Seoul Olympics with "Seoul Glow: The Story Behind Britain's First Olympic Hockey Gold," a captivating account of Great Britain's improbable journey to victory. Authored by Gilmour Gilmour and Ted MacDougall, this book isn't just a sports history; it's a celebration of dedication, teamwork, and the sheer thrill of defying the odds. Beyond the on-field heroics, "Seoul Glow" delves into the personal sacrifices made by these amateur athletes. Imagine quitting your job or using precious vacation time for a shot at Olympic glory! This is precisely what the British hockey team did, fueled by an unwavering belief in their abilities and a meticulously crafted eight-year plan. The book meticulously recounts the nail-biting matches that defined the tournament. Re-experience the excitement of Sean Kerly's semi-final heroics and the elation of Imran Sherwani's decisive goals in the gold-medal match against West Germany. Barry Davies' legendary commentary "Where were the Germans? But, frankly, who cares?" echoes through the pages, capturing the jubilant mood that swept across Britain. The book provides an in-depth look at key moments, and the tactical decisions that influenced the outcome of crucial games. But "Seoul Glow" offers more than just a game-by-game recap. It's a tribute to the visionary leadership of the late Roger Self, the manager who transformed a group of talented individuals into a cohesive and unstoppable force. Discover the strategies he employed, the motivational techniques he utilized, and the profound impact he had on each player. Explore the team dynamics, the challenges they overcame, and the unwavering camaraderie that propelled them to the top. "Seoul Glow" is more than a historical record; it's an inspirational story that resonates with anyone who appreciates the power of perseverance and the beauty of teamwork. It's a reminder that even seemingly impossible dreams can be achieved with unwavering commitment, strategic planning, and exceptional leadership. This hardcover edition, published by Pitch Publishing in 2018, offers 224 pages of in-depth reporting, insightful analysis, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan, a student of sports history, or simply someone who loves a good underdog story, "Seoul Glow" is a must-read.