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.
Tyler's Sport-Life Balance
Tyler is a 15-year-old sophomore who’s always kept a good balance—decent grades, time with friends, and casual football at the park. When his gym teacher suggests trying out for the school team, he’s excited. He’s dreamed of playing on a real team, wearing the jersey, hearing the crowd cheer. But then he learns the commitment: daily practices, weekend games, early morning workouts. It sounds amazing—but exhausting. Tyler already struggles to keep up with schoolwork. His grades could drop, and his parents might not be happy. Plus, his free time with friends would shrink fast. The tryout form is due tomorrow. He wants to play—but at what cost?
Emmett Jackson’s Dilemma: The Cost of the Game
Fourteen-year-old Emmett Jackson has always admired his father, the longtime coach of Riverview’s football team, and finally feels ready to try out himself. But after reading online discussions about football and brain injuries, he begins to question whether playing is worth the risk. While some argue that football is dangerous and not worth the long-term health consequences, others acknowledge the risks but still love and defend the sport. Now Emmett faces a difficult decision: should he follow in his father’s footsteps and join the team, or walk away from a sport that could carry serious consequences?
Maya's Many-Meter Mystery
Maya is a 16-year-old junior and a standout track athlete. She loves running the 400-meter sprint—it’s where she feels most alive. But her coach insists she focus on the 800-meter instead, where she’s also strong and could help the team win more meets. Her college advisor, meanwhile, has a different angle: “You should concentrate on academics if you want a shot at Ivy League schools. Sports are great, but you need to take AP Chem next semester, not double up on training blocks.” Maya feels pulled in three directions. She wants to sprint. Her coach wants her to train for distance. Her advisor wants her in the classroom. Everyone means well, but they each have their own definition of what’s “best” for her future. The sign-up form for next season’s events and courses is due tomorrow. Maya’s holding the pen—and the pressure.
Jayden's Passing Puzzle
Jayden is a 17-year-old senior and the star of his high school basketball team. Tonight’s game is huge—not just because it’s against a rival school, but because two college scouts are in the stands. For Jayden, this could be the game that lands him a scholarship. As the game goes on, Jayden starts taking more shots than usual. His teammate Malik is open several times, but Jayden keeps the ball, hoping to impress the scouts with big plays. Malik notices. So does the coach, who warns during a timeout, “Don’t forget—we win as a team.” With the score tied and seconds left on the clock, Jayden has the ball again. Malik is wide open under the hoop. Jayden can take the tough shot himself—or pass and trust his teammate.