When the text message came that the entire tennis team was moving up a division but your name was conspicuously absent, the world took on a cinematic, slow-motion feel. The coach used careful language about "individual growth trajectories" and "developing your fundamentals," which is apparently coach-speak for "you belong in the kiddie pool, pal." Now, as you prepare for another season of facing people who can barely clear the net, you’re the proud captain of the 'Stay Put' squad, ready to dominate the league of recreational players and perhaps finally earn that elusive "Most Improved... in our current division" award.
