Gemotions

The tennis coach's pronouncement, "We're going with other players," hit him like a physical blow. James had imagined himself on the team; the reality was a bitter pill to swallow.

He ignored the congratulations he heard around him. He went home and picked up his racket. He hit balls. Then he hit more balls. He imagined his coach's face.

The tennis court became his refuge, a place to channel his frustration. He signed up for an individual tournament. He worked harder than he ever had before. Every point he won felt like a small victory.