Festive season get-togethers invariably feature those aunts, uncles, cousins and plus-ones that you see once a year – and this can lead to awkward silences.
But the great thing about being a sports fan is the infinite amount of genuine conversation to be had. No “So how’s work?” or “How are things going?” for us thank you very much!
So, with Christmas just around the corner, this week’s #MondayHIGH5 is dedicated to sporting conversation starters.
In no particular order…
5. So…what do you think of the Proteas’ chances at the World Cup?
The Proteas haven’t won the World Cup to date, often guilty of getting the boot from teams they could otherwise beat with their eyes closed. Could next year finally be their year?
This should generate some animated speculation.
4. Chad le Clos – what a legend!
How awesome has our Chad been this year? He became the first swimmer to win the 50m, 100m and 200m butterfly – the coveted treble. Then, just to show us that he could, he won the 200m freestyle too.
With the Olympic games once again on the agenda for 2016 – thinking ahead is an exciting prospect and worth a discussion.
3. Bafana have impressed this year – but is their resurgence sustainable?
Since Shakes Mashaba has taken over the reigns at Bafana our record stands at 3 wins, 3 draws, 0 losses. Have we turned a corner? Can we start building toward AFCON and eventually the World Cup?
Discuss.
2. What do you reckon: Lambie or Pollard for Bok #10?
Having two young superstars vying for one jersey is exactly the kind of problem a coach wants to have, but in a sport where form is lumpy, picking one and sticking to your choice can be helluva difficult. One is young and experienced, one is young and inexperienced – but both have talent in spades.
Perhaps you and your uncle can resolve this one for Heyneke.
1. Can the Boks topple the All Blacks at RWC15?
Ever since the Boks got one over the old foe earlier this year there’s been a certain hopefulness: we’ve done it once, so surely we can do it again when it really matters – at the Rugby World Cup.
But then the end of year tour happened and we lost two out of four games, casting a shadow of doubt in all of our minds.
What are your thoughts? This topic will generate fierce debate for sure.
There you have it. The LeftBacks’ guide to a small-talk-free festive season. What sports talk works well for you in these situations? Post it in the comments or tweet us @leftbacks on Twitter.