“You’re right. I can do this. I can be supportive and not crazy competitive,” said Rafi

Rafi jogged over to the bleachers, where he had spotted his two best friends.

“Thanks so much for coming to watch my game.”

“Of course we came!” said Meir. “We wouldn’t miss opening day!”

“Yeah!” agreed Shmuli. “We can’t wait for your team to show those Bears what you guys can do! Go Lions!”

“Well, wish me luck. We’re going to need it,” grumbled Rafi.

“Hey, don’t talk like that,” responded Shmuli. “You said you gave your teammates pointers at practice and now they’re all doing better!”

Rafi looked around to make sure no one else was listening to their conversation and then whispered, “Well, they’re better compared to how they were last year, but we’re still not good enough to beat the Bears.”

“Rafi, don’t psych yourself out like this,” said Meir as he looked his friend in the eye. “Your team is going to do just fine. And even if they mess up a little, don’t get all worked up. You can’t let yourself get to the point where you start yelling at your teammates and stealing catches from them. Remember, Coach said this game is your absolute last chance to prove that you can stay on this team.”

“I know, guys, and you’re right. It’s just so much pressure. Pressure to win, but also pressure to know my place and not drive my teammates crazy. I’m just not sure I can control myself when they start making errors.”

“Rafi,” said Shmuli. “You can do this. You can be a team player. I know you can. Right, Meir?”

“Totally!” replied Meir. “Just have fun and try to stay calm.”

“You’re right. I can do this. I can be supportive and not crazy competitive,” said Rafi.

“Lions! Lions! Lions!” Meir and Shmuli chanted, as Rafi ran toward his team.