Crossword Genius

Leaves an athletic manoeuvre (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

splits

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'leaves' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both acts as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I don't see?

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for splits that I've seen before include "Separates or cuts with a sharp tool" , "Cleaves or divides" , "Cracks" , "Breaks into two parts as with axe" , "Divides lengthwise" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
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