Playing With Heart

Expectations were high as the matches began; Coming off last year’s finish with some success in our hands. A goal as a team to be best in our class; With a plan to move forward, there was no looking back. I was a Captain at midfield I played; My job was directing my teammates the way. But injuries prevailed, my body just wailed; So maddening each day, I just wanted to play. Kidney stones, illness, concussion, and sprains; these injuries all caused me to physically restrain. From playing the sport I had loved for so long; I wanted to be healthy, to feel good, and be strong. With my heart and my head, I still lead the team; but my body refused to let me compete. As season was ending, a proposition from Coach; A change of position and a different approach. In the goal I would go, with my Keeper skills weak; With playoffs arriving, my teammates I need. I arrived early and stayed late every day; My teammates as well with support all the way They shot at me constantly, to develop my skill; I kept getting stronger, both my body and will. I never gave up but I had no idea, My teammates would be there throughout the ordeal. It all was worthwhile, as we made it to State. A second place finish, we could never relate. Although not a victory in the championship game, Our team raised the bar for next season’s fame. To be best in our class, was our goal from the start; But it never could happen, without playing with heart.