3 Within my Mind

CHRIS

"Pass the ball, Balboa!"

I just screamed when I didn't see my players in a good game. Although this is just a practice, I do not see their motivation for what they do.

They are such a withered vegetable that I don't know if they lack will power or that they still feel defeated in an inter-school competition last time.

It's annoying! I just don't want to throw the water to them so they can wake up. But as their coach, I have to show that I am not disgusted. I'm always being calm. I also feel like they're being shocked every time I get angry. What can I do? What can I do for their enthusiasm to come back to play?

When I was young, I really loved sports. I study different strategies that I can use with my basketball team. Maybe I inherited my passion for playing with my dad. I remember then, he took me to the basketball court, and then he taught me how to dribble, footwork, and how to shoot the ball properly.

During my college years, I was on the men's basketball team. Just my first year of college, I was immediately included in the number of central players. When I became a third-year college student, I immediately became captain. My coach sees my dedication to playing, so he immediately put me in that position that is only given to fourth-year students. Other coaches invited me to play on their team as their guest player.

When I graduated, a coach invited me to join the national team practice game. I am pleased that I can play and represent my country. The practice of the national team is different than the college practice—my schedule is so hectic. There is a chance that I will not balance my time. Unfortunately, while practicing, I was pushed so hard by the group that I was crippled. The doctor advised me not to go away correctly, even if I had surgery. I was sad when I found out that, but I feel that there is still something I can do to continue my dream.

In my first year of teaching, the school did not have a basketball team, so I thought of building a basketball team. In the beginning, it was hard to recruit players, but I persevered. Fortunately, many kids were happy that the school had a basketball team. Our principal was even more satisfied because we can now participate in various inter-high competitions. There was an opportunity for the elementary school near the school where I work to invite me to coach them. Every summer, I also run a basketball clinic with other kids. Interestingly, many children enroll at basketball clinics.

I hold the whole men's basketball school. My approach to high school boys is different when it comes to elementary boys. If you ask me, my explanation will be more straightforward when I have elementary students in front of me. When I was in high school, my head was always hot. I am more focused on. And I will not lose my seriousness in the game.

"Sir Mendoza", said our team manager.

"In ten minutes, they will be out of breath."

"Thank you", I said.

That was probably the cause of our defeat. The boys also lack resistance when it comes to long games.

What can I do to strengthen my team?

While walking out of the gym, someone called my name. I stopped suddenly and turned around. I saw a female student chasing me.

The student took a deep breath and immediately asked me if I could be interviewed for their project.

I smiled slightly and said yes.

I smiled again when I saw in his eyes the joy that seemed happy because he could interview me.

"5 PM after the practice." I spoke.

I left immediately, and I did not look back at him.

But it was evident from her action that she is excited for tomorrow. That expression of her was amusing.

I also couldn't help but smile.

Wait? What is her name? Oops! I forgot to ask.

What is her year level?

Second-year?

Maybe a junior?

Never mind, we will meet tomorrow.