Blackie

This engaging autobiography documents Steve Black's journey from life as a bouncer in Newcastle to the global sporting achievements that followed. Black is commonly regarded as one of the most inspirational fitness gurus in the world. He has worked with the finest sportsmen in both rugby and football, while his advice and motivational skills have been sought by many, including Kevin Keegan, Peter Reid and Paul Bracewell. It is in rugby, however, that he has really made his mark. His involvement in the game began when he took up his current post with Newcastle Falcons at the inception of the 'rugby revolution', which catapulted him into a different sphere. He was then signed up by manager Graham Henry as the conditioning coach for the Welsh national side. Following this came his selection for the British Lions tour of Australia in 2001. In 2003, he was named as one of the key factors behind Rugby World Cup hero Jonny Wilkinson's success. However, Black's story could have been very different. At 16, he worked as a bouncer for a variety of rough pubs in Newcastle upon Tyne but differed from the herd in that he followed a strict religious and moral code. When the pub scene becameincreasingly violent, Black bowed out and went to college, where he attained an honours degree in sports science before embarking upon a career in sport. Blackie is an inspirational read for anyone who seeks success, be it in sport or life in general.