Gemotions

The roar of the crowd was a wave, crashing over Anya as she stepped off the court. She barely registered her teammates’ celebratory slaps; the world had narrowed to the feeling of the ball, still echoing in her fingertips, the memory of the perfect block. Now, Coach Miller was beckoning her over. His usual serious expression seemed… different. A small smile played at the corners of his lips.

“Anya, that was incredible defense out there. You’ve got a real knack for reading the plays.” He clasped her shoulder, his grip firm. “I’m thinking we might want to try you as libero for the next game. See how you handle the back row.”

A buzz of excitement zipped through her. Liberator! After years of struggling to make the starting lineup as a middle blocker, a chance to really prove herself, to be in every play? She beamed back at Coach, her chest swelling. “Absolutely, Coach. Whatever you need.”