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Tag: sports

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Improving vocabulary

Curious terms from the news you might wanna know

Posted on August 2, 2024 by Julia Tomiak / 0 Comment

When I hear an unfamiliar phrase, I have to dig into it. This week, I have TWO! Both heard in recent news stories, and one is about women in sports!

Improving vocabulary

Decoding how to keep score in tennis

Posted on June 10, 2022 by Julia Tomiak / 0 Comment

Since my son loves tennis, I'm trying to figure it out. But the scoring system doesn't make it easy! Here's some background info to help.

Book reviews

Why you should read What Made Maddy Run

Posted on May 22, 2020 by Julia Tomiak / 4 Comments

A compelling and important story about an All American athlete whose death by suicide shocked the U Penn campus in 2014.

Improving vocabulary

Why Is a Soccer Field Called a Pitch?

Posted on May 20, 2015 by Julia Tomiak / 12 Comments

Why do soccer geeks call the soccer field a "pitch"? The Word Nerd (and soccer mom) explains.

Improving vocabulary

The Origin of “Soccer”

Posted on May 13, 2015 by Julia Tomiak / 11 Comments

My U8s asked where the name "soccer" came from and I had to find the answer! It's kinda cool, especially if you love soccer or words.

Improving vocabulary

The Origin of the Soccer Term “Nutmeg”

Posted on April 29, 2015 by Julia Tomiak / 3 Comments

Do you know where the soccer term "nutmeg" comes from? No, not the kitchen. Most likely from sneaky spice traders. Come learn more with me.

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Meet the Word Nerd

I believe in the power of words, and I like helping people find interesting and inspiring words to read. Follow me for tips on grammar, word etymology, what books to read, and more. Member SCBWI.

Contact me at headnerd at juliatomiak dot com.

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