Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. The coach, face grim, had announced it in front of the team. Maya, a dedicated pitcher, was now going to play shortstop. Her stomach flipped.

She retreated to the batting cage, the rhythmic thwack of the ball against the net doing little to soothe her. Each swing felt awkward, her timing off. She normally felt in control, but now she was all at sea.

She kept picturing the field, the pressure of fielding ground balls, the quick throws. She was a pitcher. She needed that control. The thought of losing it made her feel completely unsteady.