Footballogy: Elements of American Football
for Non-Native Speakers of English
Official Website of
Combining English and America's passion
about Footballogy
Published by ESL publishing, Healdsburg, California
Wherever books are sold
Clueless as to what a “line of scrimmage,” a “snap count,” and a “tight end” are?” Want to know the football-specific meaning of “to hook up” “sudden death,"“pistol,” and “bench strength?” Or perhaps you’re wondering about the circumstances under which a team number is retired? Look no further than Footballogy, a comprehensive new publication for second language learners of English by Timothy Wahl.
Described by the author as a “self-paced starter guide for America’s number one sports pastime,” Footballogy displays not only his years of experience teaching language and culture to [English] learners but also his enthusiasm for the sport and its significance to American culture. The book is a fascinating read, replete with snapshots of historically important players and games as well as careful, easy-to-comprehend definitions of football terminology and fun practice tasks such as crossword puzzles for vocabulary reinforcement. Although largely focused on content, the book does not neglect some of the finer points of language: Wahl successfully integrates language and content with sections that focus on grammar, stylistics, and even the differences between British and American English.
The book can easily be used for self study by individual learners. Alternatively, it can form the basis of a content-based language unit on American football in intensive English programs or adult education programs. What’s more, it might even succeed in converting L1 speakers of English who have little knowledge of this all-American sport (such as myself) into becoming serious football fans. Check it out!
- Donna Brinton, Educational and linguistics consultant and author
Check Out Our Upcoming Events
In view of COVID 19, public activities are not planned.. Readings, workshops and face-to-face classes are to be scheduled at a later date. Check here for future offerings.
Meet the Author
Fan of the game
Footballogy demonstrates that American football, more than a game, is an experience that connects many Americans. And this book connects the game of football with useful and entertaining readings and activities in grammar, vocabulary and usage. Simply, readers can expect to gain skill and confidence to communicate about the sport and follow the action at the stadium, in print or broadcast media. And, of course, to make friends by engaging in conversations and sharing observations and experiences.
Read The Book
Learn the Game, Learn the Culture
Footballogy demonstrates that American football, more than a game, is an experience that connects many Americans. And this book connects the game of football with useful and entertaining readings and activities in grammar, vocabulary and usage. Simply, readers can expect to gain skill and confidence to communicate about the sport and follow the action at the stadium, in print or broadcast media. And, of course, to make friends by engaging in conversations and sharing observations and experiences.
Check Out Our Upcoming Events
Footballogy workshops and in-services are on the docket. Dates and times will be posted here for events in a location near you. This includes virtual shows as well as face-to-face. Stay tuned.
Test your Game
Improve Your Knowledge of English & Football
Footballogy: Elements of American Football for Non-Native Speakers of English is a trailblazing piece combining the author’s teaching career in English and American culture with his lifelong passion for American football. It is a self-paced starter guide for America’s number-one sports pastime, its heritage, and traditions from the view of a fan. The Footballogy universe takes in ESL learners as well as fluent speakers of English who learned English by study, not birth. Even native speakers can benefit from the data put forth.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Jim Mentel, Producer
Connect with English
A creative and fun way to learn both the language and culture. Highly recommended.
Bill Bliss, Co-Author
Side by Side
The rules of football and the rules of English grammar and usage come together in Tim Wahl’s unique and delightful “Footballogy: Elements of American Football for Non-Native Speakers of English.”
Gary Barta, Athletic Director
University of Iowa
A creative and fun way to learn both the language and culture. Highly recommended.
