Gemotions

"We need you at receiver, Jake." The coach's casual statement had hit Jake like a physical blow. He loved being a lineman; the grind, the controlled fury. Receiver demanded speed, agility, and the terrifying vulnerability of being out in the open. A chill ran down his spine.

He felt the familiar thrumming in his ears, a prelude to the feeling of being overwhelmed. He picked at a loose thread on his jersey. His legs felt heavy, as if weighted down. He watched the other players practice their routes, their movements fluid and practiced. He felt the crushing weight of his inadequacy.

He took a step towards the field, each footfall an effort. The grass seemed miles away.