Jackson

Practice had run late.

The field lights blazed against the darkening sky as the team broke down drills and scattered toward the locker room, everyone hyped up about tomorrow night’s game. My body ached, my jersey was clinging with sweat, and all I wanted to do was hit the showers, grab a burger, and crash so I could rest up for the biggest night of my life.

Tomorrow wasn’t just any game — it was the game. A college recruiter would be in the stands, watching my every move. ...