Gemotions

The air in the locker room hung thick with the smell of sweat and liniment. Coach Thompson sat on a bench, head in his hands. He could feel the eyes of the other players on him, the unspoken question hanging in the air. He didn't want to look up, to meet their gazes. He felt as though he was on display for all to judge.

He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to find some inner peace. It was always harder when he liked the kid, and he really liked this one. The boy's enthusiasm, his willingness to learn, it reminded him of himself.

"Why does it have to be like this?" he mumbled, his voice barely audible. He slowly picked up his clipboard, forcing himself to act.