Victoria’s Changed Team

Victoria usually practises passing with Amy at the after-school club. Today, several players are away. Ms Hill changes the teams so everyone has enough people for the game. Victoria receives a different bib and finds herself beside Lewis, while Amy stands across the court.

Victoria keeps the bib folded in her hands. She had pictured the whole session with Amy. Lewis asks if she wants to practise, but she is not ready to answer. Ms Hill notices and gives her time near the bench while the others begin a warm-up.

Victoria explains what she had expected. Ms Hill tells her which parts of today’s plan have changed and which are the same. She can watch the first practice, try a few passes with Lewis or help record the warm-up. Victoria chooses to watch one round before deciding.

From the bench, she sees Lewis use a gentle bounce pass. She asks if they can begin with that. Ms Hill marks two clear places on the court. They pass slowly between them, without joining the whole game immediately. Victoria can ask to pause again if she needs to.

Amy waves during the break. They arrange to walk to the gate together afterwards. Being on different teams today has not ended their friendship. Victoria tells Lewis she would like one more short practice before the game. He asks which pass she wants to use.

Victoria feels more comfortable with the changed team. She still prefers some familiar parts of the session. Knowing the plan, watching first and choosing a small start helped her take part today, while leaving room to say when something was not working.