Gemotions

The fluorescent lights of the gymnasium hummed, a relentless, irritating drone that seemed to amplify the tension. Coach Ramirez was pacing, back and forth, the squeak of his sneakers a constant, grating sound. He’d skipped his coffee this morning, and the caffeine withdrawal was making everything worse.

He glanced at the clipboard. The list of names stared back at him, accusing. He hated this part of the job. He knew it was necessary, but it didn’t make it any easier. He felt a throbbing in his temples.

He spotted Sarah, huddled with her friends, giggling. It was always harder when the player was… liked. He called her name, his voice sounding harsher than he intended.