2 SIMPLE STEPS TO CHOOSING A BASKETBALL SYSTEM

Choosing a new basketball system can be overwhelming, especially if your buying for the first time. This is a guide to help assist you in choosing the basketball system that is right for you and your family.

By remembering the following 2 simple steps allows you to gain a greater understanding of what the differences are between the systems we available/ the differences between backboards/ correct basketball sizing aswell as frequently asked questions when it comes to choosing a basketball system.

 

STEP 1. CHOOSE A TYPE THAT SUITS YOUR NEEDS

When choosing the type of basketball system that suits your needs you will need to consider the following.

Consider where the system will be, and who will be using it.

In-ground basketball systems

Best for:

Where – Premium performance usage in a permanent paved/ concreted area

Who – Competitive or professional players, casual but regular players, families, teens. Standard in-ground basketball systems secure the basketball pole in concrete. These types of basketball systems offer the best level of stability. The pole cannot be removed or adjusted without damaging the concrete, but some systems can be removed using a ground sleeve. The height of these systems is adjustable.

Portable basketball systems

Best for:

Where – Anywhere where portability is important or where the system will be moved

Who – Portable systems with an acrylic or polycarb backboard are best for casual players, young kids and families. Portable systems with a glass backboard are ideal for competitive players. A portable basketball system allows you to play basketball almost anywhere. These standalone units feature a base with wheels, backboard, pole and rim. For stability, fill the base with water or sand. These basketball systems are convenient and easy. Portable basketball systems offer a similar amount of stability as in-ground systems, and are a great option for those who are deterred by basketball system installation. These basketball systems make great Christmas gifts as they are enjoyable for the whole family. They are also adjustable; helpful for teaching young kinds to play. Sportsmart stocks the largest range of portable basketball systems in Australia.

Wall-mounted basketball systems

Best for:

Where – Tight spaces or areas where there is no fixed place for a pole/bar

Who – Casual but regular players, families, teens. Wall-mounted basketball systems can be attached to a garage/carport, wall, side of the house etc. These types of basketball systems will need to be installed, and generally include a backboard, hoop and net. Backboards require the mounting kit/connections to be purchased separately, and they can be either fixed or adjustable. Sportsmart sells suitable mounting equipment in store and online. When purchasing a wall-mounted basketball system, it is important to consider the area in which the system will be placed. Different types of roofs may have trouble holding the backboard straight. When considering this option, ensure you make staff aware of where your basketball backboard will be placed so they can offer installation advice. Basketball rings need to be mounted to 10 feet.

 

STEP 2. CHOOSE BACKBOARD SIZE & TYPE

Size considerations:

The main factors affecting the size you choose are the size of your playing area and the skill level of those who will be using it.

Sportsmart offers a fantastic range of basketball backboards that come in 8 sizes: 24”, 32”, 42”, 44”, 48”, 50”, 52”, 54”, 60” and 72”.

–       The 24” and 32” are junior basketball systems are generally best for young kids from 3 years old.

–       The 42” and 44” backboards are most suited to young children playing casually or for fun.

–       Backboards sized 48”, 50” and 52” are best for a small playing area, and can often be a good option to suit budgets.

–       For a playing area the size of a 2-car driveway, a 54” or 60” backboard will suit best.

–       For more professional players who want to best replicate actual playing conditions, and who have the space and budget to suit, a 72” backboard is ideal.

Material type:

The materials used in the backboard affect the bounce or rebound factor.

Glass

Glass backboards feature the best rebound performance and are ideal for highly competitive play. Glass backboards also stay crystal clear for the life of the basketball system.

Best for: heavy use; competition or professional players

Acrylic

Acrylic backboards feature very good rebound performance and are ideal for competitive play. Acrylic backboards are lighter than glass boards, so they don’t require as large of a pole to support them. While acrylic boards can dull from scratches, this is a cheaper option than glass backboards.

Best for: casual-heavy use; families; teens and children

Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate backboards feature good rebound performance and are ideal for recreational play.

Best for: casual use; children

Composite

Composite backboards offer a recreational level of play and a large variety of colour options.

Best for: young children playing for fun

 

There are a number of other considerations that will affect your decision such as your preferred method of height adjustment, which can vary between different systems, ring type, and which basketball systems fit within your budget. But if you follow the 2-step process, you really can’t go wrong!

  

Below are frequently asked questions our staff get asked relating to choosing the right basketball system.

 

What size backboard do I need? 

Sportsmart stocks basketball systems with backboards ranging from 44” to 72”.  For schools and clubs the most common size used is 60”.  For beginners and people just wanting to have fun 44” is a great starting size with the focus on the shooting square to provide guidance for the younger players in becoming a better player.

The most popular size across Sportsmart range is 54” which allows for a balance between great play and practice. Weather it may be layups, shots from the perimeter or free throw shooting.

When talking about the size of the backboard, the size is taken across the top of the board. One of the main benefits of any backboard size is the shooting square and the ring size. The square and ring size stay the same on every system –  meaning you can take your skills the practise court to the real thing.

 

What type of backboard do I need? Do I need to buy glass? 

Sportsmart stocks 4 types of boards. Eco-composite, polycarbonate, acrylic and Glass. The distinguishing factor is the rebound provided by each backboard.

Glass provides the best rebound and is what is used by most schools and clubs on their courts.

Acrylic is a great option for the player that considers themselves competitive. The acrylic backboard provides a great rebound and ensures the players shots have a very close feel to the glass backboard they may use at their local club and school.

For all beginners and younger players, the eco and polycarbonate are a recommended highly. They are a great option to get the players onto the court and learning how to shoot whist at a price that won’t break the bank.

 

What size basketball do my kids need? 

Basketballs come in 4 sizes 1(mini) 5,6 and 7.  Depending on the ages of the kids using them the standard sizes are as follows:

AGE/ SIZE

9 AND UNDER – SIZE 5 (27”)

MALES 9-13 – SIZE 6 (28.5”)

FEMALES 9 AND OVER – SIZE 6 (28.5”)

MALES 13 AND OVER – SIZE 7 (29.5”)

Australian basketball players use the sizing chart of 5,6 and 7 while Americans use sizing charts shown in inches of 27, 28.5 and 29.5.  Please note that this is only a guide to choosing the right basketball be sure to check with your local club as your local club may differ to suit their relevant coaching programs.

 

Are your basketball system heights adjustable?

All our systems are indeed adjustable. Adjustable heights range from 7.5ft (2.3m to 3.05m) with height increments of half an inch.

Each basketball system uses different adjustment mechanisms ranging from a push pin to a screw jack handles. Each mechanism allows easy adjusting when needed.

The purpose for having adjustment systems is to allows the younger players to learn the skills at there own pace, gradually increasing their height as their skills improve or they go up in age group.

A recommendation for all systems is to lower the height of the backboard during strong weather / windy conditions to avoid damage to your basketball system.

 

Do we need to assemble the system when we get home?

Yes, you will. All our systems require assembly and normally require the participation of 2 capable adults.  All the systems come with a detailed step by step instruction manual which is easy to follow to ensure the correct assemble is achieved.

We also provide assembly personal who can come to your house and assemble the systems at your convenience (this does require an extra charge).

TIPS WHEN ASSEMBLING A BASKETBALL SYSTEM

  • Using the correct lifting techniques when moving the box containing your basketball system. These systems can be heavy and awkward while in the box.
  • Thoroughly read the instruction manual paying special attention to all warnings.
  • Write your model number on the manual in space provided and retain for future reference after completing the assembly process. (Receipt should also be retained.)
  • Make sure you have all the proper tools available to assembly the system.
  • Make sure sand or water, for the ballast, is available before beginning the assembly process.
  • Remove all parts from the box and using the parts list make sure all parts are present before beginning the assembly process. If parts are missing please contact place of purchase to obtain missing part.
  • As stated in the manual, certain holes need to be reamed out using a bolt, clearing excess paint for a proper fit.
  • Typically, two capable adults are required to properly assemble a basketball system. In some cases more people may be needed. Please refer to the safety instructions.
  • If you have a clear board option, make sure you peel the protective film from the board surface before assembling the Rim.
  • Do not over adjust the height of your goal. This may cause damage to your system height adjustment lift.
  • When assembling poles, make sure they are properly marked before assembly and it is very important that the poles not be over assembled or over swaged.
  • Do not over tighten fasteners.

 

When it comes to choosing the right basketball systems for you we have you covered this holiday season! Sportsmart has a wide range of basketball systems suited to all types of players.

Feel free to visit us in store at our 3 store locations Moorabbin, Northcote & Kilsyth and one of our friendly and enthusiastic staff members they will be able to assist with any additional advice and information you may require.

Alternately why not contact our online team for more advice on finding the right basketball system. All online orders placed before December 14 Sportsmart guarantees delivery before Christmas!

Click here to view our range of basketball systems.

http://sportsmart.com.au/c/basketball/basketball-rings-and-systems

 

 

 

HOW TO CHOOSE A TABLE TENNIS TABLE

As we warm up coming into summer many families are wondering what activity the whole family can enjoy over the holiday period. A table tennis table is the answer! Nearly everyone at some point in their life has played a fun game of table tennis. Whether it be at school, home, at a friend’s house or even competition, table tennis is fun that can be enjoyed by the whole family regardless of age and skill.

If you have never owned a table tennis table, you probably have many questions. Below you will find frequently asked questions relating to your table tennis table purchase. This is a simple guide designed to help you make the right decision when buying your table tennis table.

 

What are the main features to consider when choosing a table tennis table?

When choosing a table tennis table you will need to consider where you will be using the table. There are two main types of table tennis tables; indoor and outdoor.

Indoor table tennis tables are for indoor use, they provide a more natural bounce. Where the table will be used can play a major part in your decision as to what table to buy.

Moisture and sunlight can cause damage to your table.

To help protect your table a cover is recommended, this can assist with the elements. Table Tennis covers are also available at all Sportsmart stores.

If the table is to be used outdoor or may be subjected to Moisture and sunlight we recommend you consider an Alliance Tornado outdoor table.

Our staff our more than happy to assist with any questions to help you choose the correct table.

 

What is the difference in table top thickness mean/ translate into?

There a variety of thicknesses that are available at Sportsmart. The different thickness in tops and frames give a truer and more consistent bounce. ITTF approved tables need to be 22mm or greater to get an ITTF approval. Our staff would be happy to show you the difference in order to select the correct table for your family.

Our indoor table thickness available: 12mm, 15mm, 18mm, 22mm and 25mm.

Our outdoor table thickness available: 6mm

Frame sizes vary according to the Table thickness.

 

Can you use an indoor table outside?

Indoor tables are best used indoors. The table tops are generally made from MDF and should not be exposed to moisture and Sunlight. If you plan on using the table outdoors where the table maybe exposed to moisture or sunlight it is best to buy an outdoor table that has a special top made from a mixture of Plastic, resin or Fibreglass.

 

Do they come in a variety of colours? 

Standard competition colour in Victoria is a Dark Blue top. There are no rules or regulations on colours of the tops

for leisure use. Sportsmart have a few different options for you to choose from.

 

Sportsmart recommendation for a family table. 

Sportsmarts most popular selling tables are 15mm / 16mm tables.  Alliance whirlwind or a Stiga Cyan

 

Sportsmarts recommendation for the more skilled player. 

18mm, 22mm and 25mm will suit the more skilled player. You will appreciate the natural and true bounce these tables offer.

 

What is the best brand?

Stiga still rates up there with the best brands. We buy tables from 2 companies that manufacture for the most of the major brands in the world. Stiga, Alliance and Lion

 

Will my table fold and store easily.

All tables available from Sportsmart come in 2 pieces and can be folded for compact and easy storage. This also allows the table to be used in the playback position for solo practise.

 

If I purchase a table from Sportsmart will it come with accessories?

The majority of tables don’t come with accessories, however any table tennis purchase at Sportsmart entitles you to 20% off all table tennis accessories. We have a large range of bats, balls and nets to help you get started and our staff would be more than willing to discuss the best accessories for you based on your needs and table purchase.

 

Are they easy to set up?

All Sportsmart tables come in a flat pack –they are 90% built in the flat pack. Very little assembly and knowledge is needed to set your table tennis table up and start playing!

 

Is the table size regulation/ What is regulation sizes?

Sportsmart table tennis tables are all of regulation size.

SIZE (IN MM) Length: 2740 mm Width: 1525 mm Height: 760 mm Net Height: 152.5 mm

SIZE (IN FEET) Length: 9.0 ft. Width: 5.0 ft. Height: 2.5 ft. Net Height: 0.5 ft.

SIZES (IN INCHES) Length: 107.87 inches Width: 60.0 inches Height: 29.92 inches Net Height: 6.0 inches

 

Will the Table Tennis Table fit in my car?

The table will not fit into a car. It will need to be transported in a Trailer, Ute, or large van.

It can be placed on roof racks of a car providing there is adequate tie downs available.

 

If its range, value or an early present for the family over the Summer Holidays Sportsmart has you covered.

We have more than 10 table tennis models to choose from, to suit a variety of needs and preferences. Brands that we stock include Stiga, Alliance & Lion table tennis tables and sizes that range from 16mm to 25mm.

Still have more questions about choosing a table tennis table? Feel free to visit us in store at our 3 store locations Sportsmart Moorabbin, Sportsmart Northcote & Sportsmart Kilsyth and one of our friendly and enthusiastic staff members they will be able to assist you with your needs.

Alternately why not contact our online team for more advice on finding the right table tennis table. All online orders placed before December 14 Sportsmart guarantees delivery before Christmas!

Click here to view our range of Table Tennis Tables.

http://sportsmart.com.au/c/table-tennis/table-tennis-tables

 

 

HISTORY OF THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

Of the four ‘majors’ in professional golf, the PGA Tour owns none of them. The US Open belongs to the USGA; The Open Championship to the R&A; the Masters to Augusta National; and the PGA Championship to the PGA (which is a separate entity from the PGA Tour).

That is presumably why the Tour started the Tournament Players Championship in 1974 – and why they have spent so much time and treasure promoting it as the ‘Fifth Major’.

The purse for the Players Championship was $9.5 million in 2010, making it the richest regular event. The tournament also counts for as much as the traditional four Majors in the FedEx Cup points standings. It is worth 40 points in the World Golf Rankings; only 10 less than the big four.

The winner of the tournament receives a five year exemption on the PGA Tour, a three year invitation to the Masters, a three year exemption to the Open Championship, and same year invitations to the US Open and PGA.

Consequently, the Players attracts one of the strongest fields in golf, bringing in all but a handful of the top-ranked players. It arguably has a stronger field than any of the other majors, as there are no amateurs or club professionals invited; every player there is a professional tournament player.

The inaugural Players Championship was held in 1974 at the Atlanta Country Club, and was won by Jack Nicklaus. It moved to the Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth in 1975, and then to the Inverrary Country Club in Ft. Lauderdale in 1976.

In 1977, The Players Championship found something of a permanent home in Ponte Verda Beach, Florida. It was held at the Sawgrass Country Club’s Oceanside Course until 1982, when it was moved across the road to the Tournament Players Club at Sawgrass.

The TPC at Sawgrass has given the Players an identity because that course boasts what is arguably the most famous hole in golf – the island green par 3 seventeenth.

For the first 33 years of its existence, the Players Championship was held in March. With the PGA Tour’s 2007 restructuring surrounding the FedEx Cup championship, the Players was moved to May. This gives professional golf (and television) a signature event in each month running from April to August.

Nicklaus has won three times: 1974, 1976, and 1978. Other multiple winners have been Tiger Woods (2001 and 2013), Fred Couples (1984 and 1996), Steve Elkington (1991 and 1997), Davis Love III (1992 and 2003) and Hal Sutton (1983 and 2000).

Greg Norman holds the tournament record, with an aggregate score of 264, -24 to par.

Who tuned in to watch the best players in the world doing battle?

TIPS TO HELP YOUR GOLF DRIVING

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

Hitting your driver well is a combination of physical skill, mental concentration and confidence. It is easiest to master this on the driving range, then move it to a non-competitive playing environment. Here are some tips for working on your driving …

1) Start with mini-swings, then proceed to full swings when you begin making solid contact.

2) Hit golf balls with your feet together.

3) Take full swings at 50 per cent power.

4) Concentrate on this counting sequence during your swing: 1-2 going back on the backswing, and 3 on the downswing.

5) Concentrate on extending your clubhead down the target line with a high follow-through position.

6) Keep your grip pressure light and body tension free both at address and during the swing.

7) Hit balls with your driver only to the 100-yard flag or marker, then 125 yards, then 150, then 175, gradually moving to a normal distance for your driver.

8) Swing thought: Tell yourself, “Swing through the ball, NOT at the ball.”

Another swing thought is to have your backswing at a slower speed than your forward swing, with your maximum speed obviously being through the impact area. So many players waste their maximum speed on the backswing. Your overall tempo on the downswing should be between 70-80 per cent of your full power – this speed will increase your chances of better ball striking.

Follow through drill: Hit balls or take practice swings where you concentrate on completing your swing so that your body faces the target on the follow-through. Your hands should finish high – up and around behind your head. Also, have your right foot up on the follow-through so that you may tap it on the ground. This will ensure completion of the follow-through and weight transfer. When you focus on swinging through the hitting area and completing the swing, your golf shots will improve dramatically.

THE BEST ‘MENTAL GAME’ PUTTING DRILLS

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

Putting is a mental game, where scores are made and lost. It’s really important that you find the best putting drills to test yourself whenever you practice putting.

Here are a few putting drills that should improve your golf game.

Pressure putts

Aim: To put your putting under pressure by having a consequence for missing

  1. Start 6ft from the hole and try to hole that putt
  2. If you hole it, you move on to the next hole (9 holes in total)
  3. If you miss it, move the ball back from where it finished by one club length and repeat the process
  4. Consider each hole a par 2 and total your score for the nine holes
  5. Try to beat your best score each time

The sound of success

Aim: To focus on making a solid putting stroke, not where the ball ends up

  1. Pick a spot 3ft from the hole
  2. Aim at holing 10 putts in a row with your eyes closed, after you’ve gone through your pre-shot routine
  3. If you miss a putt or at any time open your eyes, start over 

Make the hole look bigger on the course

Aim: To gain confidence on the golf course by making the hole seem bigger than it is

  1. Put 2 tees in the ground just in front of the hole, so they make the hole about half its actual width
  2. Try to make 5 putts from 4ft
  3. If you miss, start over

 

Sportsmart Golf at Moorabbin has very knowledgeable golf staff. We are experts in customising golf clubs to suit your individual needs. We also offer services of club fitting and repairs. With a fitting net and launch monitor in store, we have you covered for all your individual golf needs.

PAR 18 GAME FOR THE SHORT GAME (Part 4)

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

To improve your short game, try this exercise during your practice:

  1. Pick 9 locations from around the green to play from: 3 easy, 3 medium and 3 difficult.
  2. Each mini hole is a par 2. By playing all 9 holes, the total is ‘Par 18’
  3. Play all 9 holes, and keep your score. Make 18 your target.

Although I don’t ever recommend trying to beat your score during a round, in practice it’s different. You want to create the same pressure as if you were on the golf course, whereas on the golf course it’s ideal to minimise pressure. By thinking about your score while practicing (and trying to beat it), you get closer to the pressure you feel on the course.

Hopefully these tips will help you improve your game!

2016 ASICS NETBALL SHOES: AN OVERVIEW

SENIOR NETBALL SHOES

ASICS GEL NETBURNER SUPER 6 (2 colours available)

Key points: durable, supportive and stable

– Fluid Ride mid-sole offers reduced weight and increased cushioning

– Gel units in both forefoot and rearfoot help absorb shock during play

– Duomax technology and Trusstic system provide maximum stability and support

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER PROFESSIONAL 12 (2 colours available)

Key points: lightweight, responsive and neutral

– Designed to look and feel like a running shoe, with rear and forefoot Gel cushioning units

– 3D multi-layer printed upper offers mid-foot support

– Built on a lower profile for greater flexibility, particularly in the forefoot

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER BALLISTIC (2 colours available)

Key points: new model, neutral and supportive

– Wrapped outsole on both medial and lateral sides for durability

– Visible Gel units in both the rear and forefoot for maximum cushioning

– Midfoot Trusstic system for enhanced stability

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER BALLISTIC MT (MID TOP) (1 colour available)

Asics Gel Netburner Ballistic MT

 

Key points: new model, supportive and durable

– First Asics netball shoe to feature a mid cut option for more ankle support

– Wrapped outsole on both medial and lateral sides for durability

– Suitable for neutral foot types, with rear and forefoot Gel cushioning

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER 18 (2 colours available)

Key points: stable, supportive and durable

– 3mm increased heel gradient helps players who suffer Achilles tendon strain

– Softtop Duomax for increased comfort and stability

– Hard-wearing Asics High Abrasive Rubber (AHAR) outsole limits excessive wear

 

ASICS GEL ACADEMY 6 (2 colours available)

Key points: durable, supportive and great value

– Neutral offering with both rear and front foot cushioning

– Midfoot Trusstic system for greater stability

– Wrapped outsole and stitched toe box guard against wear and tear

 

ASICS GEL PIVOT 10 (2 colours available)

Key points: entry level, stability and durable

– Front foot Gel cushioning

– Trusstic system for mid-foot stability

– Hard-wearing Asics High Abrasive Rubber (AHAR) outsole limits excessive wear

 

JUNIOR NETBALL SHOES

ASICS NETBURNER SUPER 6 GS (1 colour available)

Asics Gel Netburner Super 6 GS

Key points: durable, supportive and stable

– High performance shoe with large amounts of cushioning and support

– Front and rear Gel cushioning units for maximum comfort

– Durable solid rubber outsole

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER PROFESSIONAL 12 GS (2 colours available)

Key points: lightweight, responsive and neutral

– New tooling for greater durability

– Asics Gel cushioning helps reduce shock and absorb impact

– Solid rubber outsole for enhanced grip

 

ASICS GEL NETBURNER 18 GS (1 colour available)

Asics Gel Netburner 18 GS

Key points: entry level, comfortable and durable

– 3M reflective upper

– Rear-foot Gel cushioning for greater comfort and shock absorption

– Solid rubber outsole provides great traction and durability

 

View and shop our senior netball shoes

View and shop our junior netball shoes

Find your local Sportsmart store

Remember, we offer free shipping on footwear when you shop online!

4 PRACTICE DRILLS FOR YOUR SHORT GAME (Part 3)

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

This is a great golf drill for improving your chipping quickly. It works on using a variety of golf clubs from the same distance, so you can see the benefit of using less lofted clubs from around the green.

  1. From the edge of the green, pick a hole on the practice green that’s about 20-25ft away.
  2. Take your 6-iron and go through your pre-shot routine
  3. Your pre-shot should have 3 main steps: Visualisation, Feel and Trust. When you’re visualising your shot, ask yourself where the golf ball will land and how it will roll out to the hole and where on the hole it will go in. When you’ve seen the shot in your mind’s eye, feel the swing you need to produce that shot. When you’re standing over the ball, say to yourself “trust it” and do exactly that.
  4. When you’ve holed your 6-iron, repeat the process your 7-iron and move all the way through to your PW. That’s a minimum of 5 shots, so see how close you can get to a score of 5 each time.

(Coming up next: Part 4)

4 PRACTICE DRILLS FOR YOUR SHORT GAME (Part 2)

by Josh Cassap, Golf Manager

One great short game drill is to take 20 golf balls and drop them around the practice green from different lies and positions.

For each shot, go through your routine just as you would on the golf course and imagine you are playing in a competition on whatever golf course you normally play (or perhaps the location of your next competition).

If the ball comes to rest outside of gimme range (2ft), go through your pre-putt routine, just as you would on the course or in a competition and try to hole the putt.

When you’ve made the up and down, move onto the next golf ball until you’ve holed all 20. This exercise might take 40-50 minutes to perform, but it makes practice very meaningful.

This drill allows you to:
•    Practice your routine – getting your process the same, and focusing on it should be consistent no matter what the shot or situation
•    Work on your imagination and visualisation
•    Simulate pressure while you practice
•    Makes practice fun, playing from different lies and trying different shots
•    Give every shot a purpose, instead of being just another practice ball

(Coming up next: Part 3)

Mesut Özil Q&A and the adidas ACE 16+ Pure Control

 

Ozil_Laceless_PR KEY VISUAL

Ozil is among the first to wear the adidas Ace 16+ Pure Control

How is the premier league different to the Bundesliga?

The Premier League is a lot faster and a lot more physical. You don’t have as much time on the ball so it’s crucial to make early decisions. The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world and to boss the game on a stage like this you need to be on top form every week.

How do you prepare for a game? Do you have any rituals or superstitions?

I always used to have the same ritual before every game where I make only knots with the laces instead of tying them in the traditional way, and then tuck them in. I think that if you tie your laces in the traditional way it’s harder to control the ball as the surface area is not flat. That’s why I’m so excited for the ACE 16+ Pure Control and having a laceless surface, though I will need a new pre-match routine now!

What did you think when you first saw the ACE 16+ Pure Control?

Honestly? I was so excited. I’ve tried my whole career to minimise the impact of laces on my game. To have a laceless boot is a dream come true.

You’ve already reached double figures when it comes to assists this season, how does it feel to be bossing the game right now?

It’s a really great feeling knowing I’m contributing to the team. It’s easy to boss the game when you’re playing with so many great players and my aim now is to break the record for the most assists in a Premier League season.

We know you boss the game on the pitch but we also know you love cars. What do you drive to boss the road?

I’m a big lover of cars and it’s one of the few luxuries I enjoy spending my money on. Right now you’d find me behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz G-Class. It’s a really awesome car.

We know music is a big part of your life, who do you think bosses the stage?

I’ll listen to music before every match to get myself psyched up and right now I’m really into my Hip Hop. It’s hard to say who is the biggest boss in hip hop, as it’s a genre full of incredible performers. But if I could choose my ideal gig it would be kicked off by Kanye West – currently my favourite artist – followed by Wiz Khalifa and finished by Drake.

It’s no secret that you’re into fashion and have a particular post-match grooming routine. Can you shed some light on this?

I like to take care of myself and take pride in my appearance. Football players like to take care of themselves and pay attention to the way they dress. I think as a human being you need variety; you can’t just do football, you need a combination. Football is of course my main focus, which is a lot of fun and I love to be on the pitch. But I have other interests beside that, like fashion or being with my family. I am a big sneaker fan and adidas has a lot to offer there.

What’s been your footballing highlight to date?

That’s a really difficult question to answer. Winning two FA Cups with my club has been fantastic as it’s something our fans waited eight years for. But the ultimate highlight has to be lifting the World Cup with Germany. There was real expectation around us before the tournament and we stepped up and delivered, including a huge performance against Brazil. It was incredible to walk off the pitch with my team mates knowing that the world would be talking about that game for a long time.

The world’s first high performance laceless boot – the ACE 16+ Pure Control – will be available in a VERY limited number at Sportsmart’s Moorabbin store soon.