The sun had just set above the horizon and was sending an amazing golden glow across the school field. As fifty excited children gathered for football tryouts, the clean, familiar smell of freshly cut grass filled the air. They varied from excited first-years to confident seniors, all filled with nervous energy. Boys gathered around, chatting about their opportunities, watching the competition, and sneaking glances at Coach Thompson. He moved with perfection as he set up cones, hurdles, and goalposts, each movement projecting authority. His piercing look went over the gathering, as if he had already decided who belonged.
Marco and Alex strolled onto the field side by side, their football boots casually slung over their shoulders. Marco's heart raced fast in the back of his chest, a mix of anxiety and resolve racing through him. This was it—the moment he had trained so hard for. No more looking back. Beside him, Alex looked unusually quiet, fidgeting with his water bottle as though the lid held all the answers.
"This is it," Alex muttered, bumping Marco's arm. "You ready for this?"
Marco tried to match his bravado with a small grin. "Ready as I'll ever be."
They found a quiet corner at the edge of the field, lacing up their boots and stretching in silence. Around them, the competition was already starting to show off. Some players juggled the ball like it was second nature; others pulled out flashy tricks, clearly hoping to make an impression. Marco's eyes landed on a senior casually executing a perfect rainbow flick. For a second, a wave of self-doubt crept in, but he pushed it aside. He wasn't here to compete with tricks but to show what he was made of.
A striking whistle cut through the background. The attention of everyone shifted to Coach Thompson, who stood in the center of the field, his dominant presence silencing the entire crowd. Even in stillness, he had an aura that demanded respect.
"Welcome to tryouts," he said, his tone calm but authoritative. "Today, it is not only about how many tricks you can perform or how well you kick the ball. I'm looking for guys who can fight for every inch, operate properly as a team, and have the determination to keep going when things get tough. Of course, talent is important. What about heart, determination, and attitude? That's what defines decent players from great ones. If you're prepared for that, let's get started."
The field went quiet again, his words landing heavily on every player. Marco glanced at Alex, who gave him a small, encouraging nod. This wasn't just about joining the team anymore—it was about proving something to himself and everyone else.
The players lined up for the first drill, the tension in the air as thick as the morning dew. Marco took a deep breath, replaying Coach Tony's voice in his head: Stay calm. Play your game. Don't be pressured.
Then the whistle blew, slicing through his thoughts. Tryouts had officially begun