The following work is the result of an eight-week collaboration with The Chicago City of Learning Young Author Playlist and Hypertext Studio Writing Center. THE FULL PIECE IS FEATURED ON HYPERNOVA LIT, OUR SISTER SITE PUBLISHING THE WORK OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS.
By Isaiah Flores
I remember the day I finally broke out of my little shell. I was so tired of always being looked over by Coach Buys, as if I was not good enough for him to notice. I had such a desire to improve and prove people wrong. I knew the potential I had and how much of a good runner I truly was. I always had the thought in the back of my head that I need to show and prove that I deserve that varsity spot next year. Well on that day, Monday, we had our workout at Marquette Park. We met downstairs in the locker room to change. As I walked into the same blue-floored locker room that I’ve been using for a year now, I knew something was going to be different. Once everyone changed into their shorts and sleeveless shirts, we began our tempo run, with the best leading the way. I was preparing myself mentally for the hard workout with much determination and a feeling of confidence within me. We finally reached the park and got ready to race. We all lined up at the starting line. It was Ruben, Miguel, Jesus, Alex, and me. They were ready to run, determined. We were all in position waiting for the whistle to go off.