Hadassah

a new friend?

Today was like something out of a dream. The Kansas City Chiefs were set to play a friendly match against Manchester United, and the excitement was palpable. Yes, that Manchester United—with Lionel Messi on the roster! But the real highlight for me? George. He was part of that UK team, and he was one of the coolest friends I had ever made. It felt like we’d known each other forever, even though we had just met.

George had this infectious energy, and he was also Jewish and neurodivergent, just like me. We bonded over our shared experiences and our love for everything from sports to video games. He was twelve but had a mind like a pro, always coming up with the funniest observations. Like when he turned to me and said, “How could you date Mahomes? He sounds like Kermit the Frog! And he’s your age plus 15! Like, come on, he’s practically ancient!”

I burst out laughing, nearly snorting. “Right?! I mean, he’s super cute and all, but you’re not wrong! And what’s up with his hair? It’s like he got into a fight with a lawnmower!”

George grinned, but I could see something serious behind his smile, like he was gauging my reaction. “Exactly! Plus, he probably stinks from all that running around. You’d have to make sure he showers after every practice. I don’t need to be dealing with that.”

“Agreed!” I said, holding my stomach as I doubled over with laughter. I hadn’t realized how much I needed this light-hearted banter. It felt easy being around him, like I could just be myself without worrying about anything else.

We were at Arrowhead Stadium, and the atmosphere was electric. The stadium was packed with fans excited to see this mix of American football and European football. I loved how both teams were eager to show off their skills. The Chiefs had this fierce determination, while Manchester United—wearing their classic red jerseys—brought a whole new level of energy to the field.

After the European football match, I found myself sitting on the sidelines, watching George interact with his teammates. They were all so passionate, and it was inspiring. I cheered for them, trying to get their attention. “Come on, George! You got this!” I shouted, waving my arms like a maniac.

When he scored a goal, I jumped up and screamed, “YES! Let’s go, George!” The rush of excitement made my heart race in a way I hadn’t felt before. I was just so proud of him.

As the day went on, the teams switched from European football to American football, and the vibe shifted. I could see George’s enthusiasm for both sports, but there was something else in the way he looked at me—something deeper. I just didn’t pick up on it. I was too busy thinking about how awesome it was to be here.

“Just wait until you see Mahomes throw a touchdown,” I said, defending my favorite player. “He’s like a magician on the field!”

George rolled his eyes playfully. “Yeah, yeah, but he’s not that great. I mean, he does sound like Kermit. You could do better, you know.”

I laughed, brushing off his comments. “You’re just jealous because you’re not a superstar like him! Besides, he’s a total legend. Who wouldn’t be into that?”

“Yeah, well, I mean… I’d be an upgrade,” George said, and there was something in his tone that made me laugh even harder.

“An upgrade? Seriously?” I replied, playfully shoving him. “You can’t be serious!”

“I’m dead serious! Just think about it,” he said, his grin widening. “I’m way cooler than Kermit! Plus, I’m not like twice your age!”

“Okay, fair point,” I said, giggling. “But I don’t know, George. Mahomes is just... Mahomes. You know?”

“Whatever helps you sleep at night,” he teased, rolling his eyes. But there was that flicker again in his eyes, the kind that told me he might be a little more serious than he let on.

As we gathered on the field for photos, I felt a warm glow of friendship wrap around us. George might have been in the nauseous zone for a while but ok

That day, as we left the field, I knew I’d cherish our friendship forever. George and I were a perfect match in a world that sometimes felt overwhelming. With him, everything just clicked, even I love my new friend