The Journal Times Online - Racine, Wisconsin

So it’s Monday. Time to get your head in the game. Time to step up to the plate. The bar’s been raised, so bring your A-game. After all, no pain, no gain, right?

Happy Sports Cliche Week (July 13-19). We hope you’re ready to give it 110 percent and think of the best sports cliches applicable in non-sports arenas. According to Dr. Don R. Powell, author of "Best Sports Cliches Ever," sports cliches are used in at least 50 percent of corporate boardrooms and everyday conversations. Here’s Powell’s list (from 2007) of the top 10 sports cliches used in business:

1. He’s a team player.
2. He dropped the ball.
3. It’s gut check time.
4. He doesn’t pull any punches.
5. He always steps up to the plate.
6. He talks a good game.
7. He’s in a league of his own.
8. They want to play hardball.
9. The ball’s in your court.
10. He answered the bell.
(Source: PRNewswire)

So, the ball’s in your court. Knock it out of the park. And remember, there’s no "I" in TEAM. Tell us your favorite sports cliche to use in the office. Better yet? See how many cliches you can use in your comment. I used 10 in this post — but records are made to be broken ...