Playing the Field

Game Faces

"Left field!" I scream at the top of my lungs, "They're gonna get Brooks!"

For the sixth time, I see the opposing team tackle our quarterback.

"Damn," Coach said, looking at the score board.

We're down by two touchdowns.

Brooks threw a couple of passes that just didn't make it. We're still 70 yards away.

There was a fumble and they got the ball but luckily our defense held strong.

Finally, the second quarter was up and it was half time. We all slumped into the locker room.

The team looked absolutely defeated. We were getting our asses handed to us the entire night. I couldn't believe how good the Grizzlies are.

"Avery," Coach barked, "Going into the next quarter, you're gonna have to bring it. And I mean all of it. Don't hold back. This is what we've been waiting for. You're gonna prove what you go to everyone. You ready?"

I nod, "Born ready, Coach."

I ignore Stanley's scoff.

Karl offers a kind slap on the shoulder.

*

I shake my shoulders before I take the field. My teammates pour out into the fake grass, and I see the cameras going off.

My football career is being well documented by ESPN and at first I was ready to say no, but then I realized that would be unfair to the team. Scouts are always watching and I'm not the only talent on the field.

I take a deep breath and clear my thoughts, then step out of the dark tunnel and to the lit stadium.

I couldn't help but grin at all the cheering fans. It made me happy my family was watching my first college game.

Grizzlies kicked off the ball. Malvin caught it. He got forty yards, which impressed me beyond measure.

Stanley, like a snake, crept up behind me, "Lose, and everyone will see what a poser you are."

"Good thing I don't lose. I win. Which is how I got here. And you? It's lucky daddy has money to compensate for the lack of talent." I roll my eyes and put on my gloves then the helmet.

I stare at his open mouth for a second, "I may be a girl, but I've got bigger balls and skill on a field than you any day."

With that, I saunter on the field.

"And there she goes, folks! Auburns own Avery Skinner, number seven. Carried that number from high school. In case you live under a rock and don't know, yes, she is indeed a female about to tackle this game. I was watching in on the practices earlier and man, that girl is the definition of a beast." The announcer said.

We huddle and I block out all outside noise. All that matters is getting at least three touchdowns. All I have is fifteen minutes so that means no hiccups, no mistakes, nothing can go wrong here.

"We're gonna do this straight and simple. Got it?" They nod their heads, "Good. Break."

We clap and everyone takes their positions. I look at the Grizzlies and ignore the shouting of the crowd.

I scan my players, making sure everyone is in their positions. I then back up, not looking at the clock and then lift my leg to signal the hike.

I catch the ball and get ready to launch it. My boys aren't exactly where I want them to be, Teddy and Peter are being closely followed while Addison isn't far enough. Yet my defense isn't holding up and the Grizzlies are getting ready to break through and invade my little bubble. I groan and tuck the ball under my arm and start booking it around the huddle of fighting players. Coach shouts in the headset in my helmet to throw the ball away before I get tackled.