Coach to Coach

11A Turning Point

Brian got a quick shower and made it in time for the team meetings. The conversations revolved around the game against the big in-state rivals on the upcoming Saturday. Since the other team was currently a Top 25 program, Brian's school was not only not expected to win, but there was added pressure from the previous evening about the disrespect shown to their school as a result of some students vandalizing a famous statue on campus. Although the painting of the other school's founder's statue in rival team colors had become a thing of tradition, it still stirred up anger when some enterprising students were able to pull it off. Coach Olsen was using this “blatant disrespect for our school” as motivation for both the staff and the team because he knew what a victory on Saturday could mean for the program. It had been five years since their last victory against that team, and their fan base, alumni, and administration were starting to lose faith. Coach Olsen was looking for all the ammunition he could get.

Just like the previous day, Brian found Marcus in the locker room getting ready for practice. This time, Marcus's body language told Brian he was a little more excited to see him. It also gave Brian a clue that Marcus had taken his homework assignment seriously. Brian asked Marcus if they could chat again in the film room before practice. Marcus was ready and they both went inside and had a seat in the same chairs.

“Marcus,” said Brian, “I have a feeling you ...