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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: Game (12/06/12)
"I'm afraid that you'll have to stop wearing that if you want to play in the championship game next week." Mr. Roger's voice held a note of regret as he delivered the disheartening news to Bobby, the quarterback for Central High.

Bobby's head was down as he responded, "Then you'll have to search for another quarterback."

Mr. Roger stood up abruptly pushing his chair roughly under the desk. He walked toward the door, stopping midway looking at Bobby and quietly asked, "Are you sure Bobby?"

Bobby nodded silently.

"Well, then there's nothing more to say. If you change your mind and come to your senses, I'll be right here." He opened the mahogany door and gestured.

Bobby didn't bother to look, or offer another word. He picked up his helmet and walked out of the principal's office. His team was waiting in the locker room for the outcome. He wanted to deliver better news than what was forthcoming. He knew the harsh reality was going to hit them hard, especially since they had a decent shot at becoming State champions for the first time in twelve years.

"Bobby, wait up."

He turned to see his girlfriend Melissa's beautiful face. How could he deliver the news to her? She'd think that he was a loser, for sure. He'd have to try, that's all he could do.

"Hey Missy...what's up?"

"Never mind that. So, what's going on? What did the old Scrooge have to say to you today?" Her green eyes wide and sparkling while she waited for an answer.

"He told me that I needed to get rid of my item of distraction, it has to go, or..."

"Or?"

"Or...I don't get to play next week."

He waited while his stomach flip-flopped like a fish out of water. He felt as if his mouth was lined with cotton, as a drip of perspiration made its way down his nose. What was she going to think of him now? It didn't matter... the only thing that mattered was the commitment he made a long time ago.

"Oh Bobby...I'm so proud of you!" She threw her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek. "You are super amazing. I have the best boyfriend in the world."

"You mean, you don't care I don't get to play? I thought you wanted a quarterback to take you to the prom?"

"And, he will. You are a quarterback, and one of the best they've had in years! If they don't know that, then they're the idiots. And, for what you're doing, being committed this way? Come on, I think you have fortitude and tenacity that goes beyond your years."

Melissa smiled, and his whole world brightened. He swallowed and found his voice, “Wow, thanks babe. I have to go tell the team...see you later?"

"You better."

He walked away feeling strong, and taller than ever before. His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ was all that mattered. A game was important, but not as important as the eternity. He wasn't about to compromise his scruples, and his faith for a game. Sure, it was disappointing, but not as much as losing favor with God. He touched the item that was the object of scorn for the past month, the gold cross around his neck.

Looking up, he spoke in a low voice, Lord, I love You more than anything in this entire world. They wanted me to discard my cross, and to forget that I'm a Christian, and that's never going to happen. Each time I got down on one knee before the game, they ridiculed me. Each time I looked up to thank You, they ridiculed me. And, each time, I gave You thanks, they laughed at me...but Lord, I'd do it all again. I love You Lord. Give me the strength to tell my teammates now. And, Lord...I know with You all things are possible, so perhaps, if You're willing, everything will turn out okay. My Lord somehow I know You'll put me in that game next week. I leave it to You.

Bobby pushed open the door to the locker room, and taking a deep breath, he entered...
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This article has been read 1111 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Noel Mitaxa 
12/17/12
You've realistically captured the pressure that can deny too many promising young Christian athletes an opportunity to develop their sports careers as they mature in their faith. Years of sports ministry shows that when Christian athletes speak, young people are listening. Yet Bobby has set his priorities well, for though top sports can be glamorous, careers can be very brief.
Strong characterisation throughout.
Dannie Hawley 
12/17/12
You've done a nice job putting the finger on what has become a very serious problem for our kids today. Hard to imagine that a person can wear other symbols of destruction, but not the one that points to life and truth. I'm a happily-ever-after kind of person, so I elect to believe that the boy got to play. I am sadly aware that, in this present climate, he probably wouldn't... outside of God's intervention. A good reminder to pray for our kids in school today! Thanks!
Wilma Schlegel
12/18/12
This piece offers hope; shows faith and strength.

Nicely done.
Hiram Claudio
12/18/12
I truly enjoyed this realistic setting and the various conversations. It really struck me how honestly you painted the MC, strong in his faith yet not looking forward to break the news to everyone ... I could feel his youth. So well written. Wonderful work here!
Hiram Claudio
12/20/12
Congratulations for gaining HC honors two weeks in a row!!
lynn gipson 
12/20/12
Congratulations my dear friend, you should been even higher.

God BLess, Lynn
lynn gipson 
12/20/12
Congratulations my dear friend, you should been even higher.

God BLess, Lynn
lynn gipson 
12/20/12
Congratulations my dear friend, you should been even higher.

God BLess, Lynn
Dannie Hawley 
12/20/12
Yippee! Your terrific article made the list again this week...way to go, girl! Congrats, liberally sprinkled with patting of the back and generous portions of chocolate. I mean, this is something we can celebrate!
Danielle King 
12/20/12
Congrats Camille on this wonderful and inspiring story.
Mary Annthipie Bane 
12/20/12
I enjoyed reading this uplifting article and it is a great reminder that we are to stand firm in our faith.
PamFord Davis 
12/22/12
Congratulations!

Wing His Words
Shann Hall-LochmannVanBennekom 
12/23/12
I really like this a lot. You did a fantastic job of developing the conflict immediately and it pulled me right in. I really enjoyed your MC. It's not easy to stand by your beliefs in HS.

The one problem I did have was that the forbidden item was a necklace. In almost every level of football(except for the pros and maybe college) jewelry of any kind is not allowed for safety reasons. As I read on I was hoping the item wouldn't be a necklace but instead maybe a patch or something on his helmet or even a warm-up suit or blanket that had something on it to show off his faith.

But even with that said, you're allowed literary license and I imagine some divisions may not have the no jewelry rule. (Though once my daughter took the rubber band from her hair and put it on her wrist during a swim meet and the official warned her, and could have DQ her for having it on her wrist.

I think you tackled the topic in a fresh way. I so enjoyed this. Sports can be such a positive part of a kid's life and can make a huge difference in what type of people they will be. But you showed that his faith had an even greater influence on the type of person he is and I loved it.

Congratulations on your HC and for ranking 13 overall!