Gemotions

"I'm sorry, Sarah," Coach Morales had said, his voice softer than usual. "We're moving you to defensive specialist." The words hung in the air, heavy and unwanted. Sarah had been the star outside hitter, the one who could always be counted on for the kill. Now, this.

Her hands, which had so skillfully controlled the volleyball, now felt clumsy and awkward as she practiced her digs. The net felt like a barrier, separating her from the action, from the glory she had always craved. The sounds of the game, the shouts, the thwack of the ball, were now a distant soundtrack to her disappointment.

She watched as her replacement effortlessly slammed the ball. The cheers, which had always fueled her, now felt like a bitter pill. She felt the tears welling in her eyes, blurring her vision. She wanted to disappear, to vanish from the court. The air was thick with a sense of failure.