Ava is a senior soccer player with college scouts coming to watch her playoff game. But her knee has been hurting for weeks, and it’s only getting worse. Her coach says they need her, and she doesn’t want to let the team—or her future—down. But if she keeps playing, she might make the injury worse, possibly permanently.

Ava is a 17-year-old senior and the starting midfielder on her school’s varsity soccer team. She’s been playing since she was seven, and it’s more than just a sport to her—it’s her identity. She’s the captain, the motivator, the one everyone counts on to bring energy and grit to every game.

A few weeks ago, Ava twisted her knee during practice. It was painful, but she shook it off. The trainer said it might be a mild sprain, and with rest, she should be okay. But Ava hasn’t really rested—there was too much at stake. The state playoffs are starting next week, and scouts from two of her top-choice colleges are planning to attend. Her coach says, “I need you out there. Just one more push.”

Every day, the pain gets worse. Sharp jolts shoot through her knee when she moves too fast or lands wrong. She’s icing it, wrapping it, popping ibuprofen—anything to get through practice. Deep down, she knows something’s not right. What if she tears a ligament? What if she needs surgery? What if this one season costs her the ability to play in college—or for the rest of her life?

Still, people are counting on her. The team. Her coach. Her parents, who’ve invested so much time and money. Sitting out now feels like letting everyone down.

Her knee throbs as she laces up her cleats before a scrimmage. She has to decide: play through the pain, or speak up and risk losing her spot—and maybe her future.

What should Ava do?