Diffidence

Diffident
[dif-i-duh nt]
adjective
1.
lacking confidence in one's own ability, worth, or fitness; timid; shy.
2.
restrained or reserved in manner, conduct, etc.

They were.... different, to say the least. They would downplay their talent to make way for others, yet go above and beyond what most expected when it came to loyalty and strength.

Few friends they had, but those who gained their respect always had a support to lean on. Acquaintances numbered in the double digits, and were always led to believe that they had their trust. Enemies few, though they did not even truly know of their combined hatred.

Not one knew what they would do when challenged in the sport they loved.