CHAPTER 5
A few weeks later, Rachel challenged Alexis for the last varsity singles spot for the third time. And for the third time, Alexis beat her.
After the match, Alexis went to the end court to grab some water.
“Beat her again?” asked Erin from behind the fence.
“Yeah,” Alexis said.
“Well, don’t act so excited!” Erin said, smiling.
“I kind of feel bad for her,” Alexis admitted. “You know, since she’s a senior and everything. I’d probably hate me too if I was in her shoes.”
“She doesn’t hate you,” said Erin. “Besides, you’re better than she is. That’s clear. What are you going to do, let her win?”
Just then, Coach Taylor yelled, “Alexis! Come over here!”
“Uh oh,” said Erin, laughing. “You’re in trouble.”
Alexis jogged over to the bleachers and sat down next to her coach.
“How are things going?” asked Coach Taylor. “Are you enjoying yourself?”
“Yeah,” said Alexis. “I love playing tennis. And it’s really cool to be on varsity.”
“Good,” Coach Taylor said. “You’re a very talented player.”
“Thanks,” Alexis said.
The coach looked out at the courts. “So, Alexis. When do you plan to challenge Stephanie for the number three spot?” she asked.
“I’m not sure,” Alexis replied. “I’m happy being number four. I think that’s a good spot for me.”
“But Alexis, you and I both know you’re better than that,” Coach Taylor said. Her voice was serious. She went on, “The only reason I put you at number four was because I wanted to see you earn a higher ranking. But now I’m a little disappointed.”
“Oh,” Alexis said. She felt awful. “I’m sorry, Coach.”
Coach Taylor relaxed a little. “Don’t be sorry. Just push yourself. I want to see you push yourself, and you aren’t.”
“But I’m only in seventh grade!” Alexis said. “I’m happy just being on the team.”
“That’s not good enough for me, Alexis,” Coach Taylor told her. “I want to see you be your best.”
“But Coach, the older players can’t stand me already. If I start challenging them, they’ll really hate me,” Alexis said.
Coach Taylor shook her head. “That’s their problem, not yours,” she said. “Did you know that Morgan beat two seniors her sophomore year to earn the number three spot?”
“No,” Alexis admitted. “I had no idea.”
“She’s been there. So have the other girls,” Coach Taylor said. She smiled at Alexis. “Just tell me you’ll think about it.”
“Okay,” Alexis said finally. “I’ll challenge Stephanie.”