#momentum coaching classes

[momentumneet]

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[leaderpinhead]

Vargas - Magicless Spelldrive

For this week's prompt from @flashfictionfridayofficial

Ashton’s first impression of Ramshackle Dorm’s prefect? The kid was puny. When the prefect’s schedule put him in two of Ashton’s PE classes, he gave the kid a strict regime of stretches and easy exercises to start building some muscle. 

He was a little confused when he caught the boy tossing a spelldrive disc on the other side of the field during the sophomores’ flight lesson. “Leal!” 

His assistant coach immediately dropped the brooms he carried and rushed to Ashton. He snapped to attention. “Yes, Vargas, sir!” 

Ashton jerked his thumb in the direction of the prefect, who jogged across the field to grab the spelldrive disc. “What’s the Ramshackle prefect doing?” 

Leal blinked and watched the boy toss the disc, run to retrieve it, and toss it again. “Oh! He asked if he could borrow a spelldrive disc after he did his usual stretches. I didn’t think it would be a problem since he couldn’t participate in the flight lessons with the older students. Should I take it from him? I could tell him to do a hundred more push-ups instead!” 

Ashton hummed and watched the kid. He was out of the way of the other students, and he tossed the disc away from the flying brooms. Not that he could throw the disc very far. Spelldrive discs were designed to be aerodynamic but also sturdy enough to remain intact when hit with a spell. Throwing a disc without magic wasn’t easy. 

Ashton shrugged. “Leave him be. Better he be active than sitting the entire period.” 

For the next week, the prefect tossed the spelldrive disc during flight class while the other students focused on their lesson. One day, Ashton glanced over at that end of the field and found one of the Leech brothers throwing the disc. It didn’t fly very far, and that short distance obviously annoyed the Leech, especially when the prefect’s throw went farther. 

The next day, Ashton found both Leech brothers attempting to throw the spelldrive disc farther with Asim running back and forth to fetch the disc. The next day added Ashengrotto, Bucchi, and Viper. Ashton thought Bucchi, a member of the Spelldrive Club, would end the competition of tossing the disc farther than the prefect, but he was surprised to see Bucchi’s throw come up a meter or two short. 

On the third day, after the sophomores had sped through their lesson in half the time Ashton anticipated, he found the same group plus Rosehearts and Silver huddled together on the far end of the field. He sent Leal to investigate and watched the Leech brothers crowd him. He waited impatiently for Leal to return, hair askew and a somewhat panicked look in his eyes. “Well?” 

“They’re setting up a spelldrive game?” Leal scratched the back of his head. “They said since they were done with the lesson, they were going to use the rest of the time playing spelldrive. Without magic.” 

Ashton’s interest perked. “Without magic? How do they plan on doing that?” 

“They’re just...” Leal pulled back his arm and made a tossing motion. “Going to throw the disc. And run. They're arguing over who gets the prefect on their team now.” 

Ashton squinted at the group. Sure enough, Bucchi and Rosehearts appeared to be playing an game of rock, paper, scissors. After throwing the same gestures three times, Bucchi crushed Rosehearts’s scissors with his rock. He grabbed the prefect by the arm and dragged him over to stand with Silver and a Leech brother. Rosehearts, his face obviously red even from this distance, glared at the final Leech brother and joined Viper and Ashengrotto. Asim happily waved his headband like a flag. 

Ashton watched as the two teams fell into a formation similar to a regular spelldrive game. Bucchi and Rosehearts did another rock, paper, scissors to decide who got the disc first. Bucchi gave the disc to the prefect without hesitation. 

Asim threw his headband into the air. The prefect twisted at the hips, his feet firmly in place, and used the momentum of the backspin to throw the disc. The disc flew above the heads of the opposing team and flew through the upright brooms Ashton imagined marked the goals. 

The game continued in that fashion, the boys running around to steal the disc from each other and finding ways to counter the prefect’s impressive throws. None of them managed to match the prefect’s throws, and Asim threw his headband at one of the Leech brothers (no doubt Floyd) multiple times for using magic on the disc. 

It was...the weirdest thing Ashton had ever seen. Spelldrive with no magic? No flying? He scratched his head and sent Leal over to watch the group while he supervised the rest of the class. The next time he glanced over at his assistant coach, the magicless man was cheering beside Asim after the prefect scored another goal. 

Ashton waved down the prefect after class. “Prefect! I know you were assigned two PE classes because of a scheduling mistake, but I can’t have you distracting your fellow classmates from their lesson.” 

The prefect blinked. “Sorry. I thought playing spelldrive was a good way to build up muscle. The others said they had finished their lesson.” 

Ashton couldn’t argue. Spelldrive did build muscles. The sophomores had finished their lesson. He scratched the back of his neck. “Well...just keep the spelldrive game to the other side of the field. And don’t let the others join if they haven’t completed the lesson.” 

The prefect nodded and left for his next class. Ashton shook his head. Surely the boys would grow tired of the odd game. Few of them had the attention spans to listen to his lessons. 

The spelldrive games continued. Most of the boys were eventually able to throw the disc farther than the prefect, but maintaining the record for the farthest distance became a competition amongst them. And Ashton, though baffled as he was, couldn’t bring himself to stop their games. 

[cherry-flavoured-thot]

Clown Behaviour / First Years 

Ace throws a note at the back of your head during class when he thinks the teacher’s back is turned. He thinks he’s so sneaky, asking you to move over just a bit more to the left so he can read your answers. Only to feign hurt when you do move and all he can read is: “you stink.” 

You and Deuce are staring at each other, after Professor Crewel finishes explaining a new potion recipe. “Did you understand what the Professor meant?” He whispers, you almost burst out laughing. “What? What’s so funny?” When you, manage to tell him you have no idea, he starts to crack up too. 

Jack has probably overlapped you three times now, you seem to be losing momentum fast. Coach Vargas keeps threatening to add five more laps to your total if you don’t cross the finish line in the next five minutes. “Jack I can’t go on.” You whine, and he rolls his eyes telling you to get over it, but when you drop down onto the track face first, completely still. He’s freaking out the entire time. 

Purposely poking Epel as you’re sitting next to him in class just to annoy him. You’re about to do it again when he grabs you by the wrist and glares at you, “do it one more time, see what happens.” You, bored, do exactly that when he lets go. You both end up in detention because he throws himself at you, knocking you off your chair onto the floor. You laughed the entire time. 

Sebek has the audacity to blame you for Grim’s lacking grades and then notices you aren’t technically doing any better. “Human you must try harder if you want to succeed, especially if you still wish to continue being friends with Lord Malleus-” you don’t even think about it, your mouth just opens. 

“He didn’t seem bothered by my bad grades when I visited his dorm room last night-” bad answer. Sebek yells so loud you think your ear drums might burst. 

[chirpingfromthebox]

The Frost's Post-Game Press Conference: MIN at NYC - 12/22/2024

Minnesota's post-game press session after their away match against the New York Sirens on 12/22/2024.

At the table were assistant coach Mira Jalosuo and goaltender Nicole Hensley.

Transcription is under the break.

Reporter:

Coach, can you just talk about that third period? Where the Sirens were able to get back into the game while you guys had momentum at that point?

MIRA JALOSUO:

Yeah, I mean, it wasn’t our best game, obviously. This is the first time this season we got outshot there. Good thing we have a world-class goaltending in Nic Hensley and Maddie Rooney. We always feel confident when they are in the net. I don’t think there was never a panic moment for us in the game. So very happy with the 2 points.

[For anyone who doesn't know, Mira Jalosuo is Finnish. So if you're only reading the transcriptions, know that any linguistical oddities you see in her answers is just because this isn't her first language.]

Reporter:

This is the second time you guys had to go to overtime. This time you needed the shootout to beat them. What is it about the Sirens where you guys aren’t able [???] the win?

MIRA JALOSUO:

That’s a good question. I mean we are very evenly matched obviously with them. Both games they have been OTs and this time it was a shootout. So I don’t think there is any secret shots against them. We’re just very evenly matched. Great parity overall in the league too.

Reporter:

Can you both talk about what Kendall [Coyne Schofield] brought in that first period? Those two goals and the explosiveness. Is it just the way she is?

NICOLE HENSLEY:

Yeah, Kendall’s built different for sure. She’s our leader for a reason. And it was definitely a game where we were struggling to get going. So for her to find the back of the net early—twice—was huge. Just her wherewithal to throw the puck on net sometimes is just the best thing you can do. Obviously we needed both those goals to be able to get it to overtime. She’s a tremendous leader and very thankful she was on our team today.

Reporter:

Does anyone beat her in speed races?

NICOLE HENSLEY:

Ummm, I mean, I don’t think so. I think part of that is just her tenacity too. She may be the smallest player on the ice, but she wants the puck more than anybody else. And she’s usually going to win it.

Reporter:

How do you, Nicole, get into the mindset to put on a performance like you did today: stopping 33 shots?

NICOLE HENSLEY:

Yeah, I mean, it’s been kind of a tough go so far for me. So I was clearly fighting the puck today, especially in the second. It’s a long season. Lots of ups and downs. I think you just have to keep telling yourself to focus on the next puck. I think during the second period our team could have been pretty frustrated with me. But they weren’t. We came together in the locker room and just- yeah, and they came out and did everything they could and I just tried to do my job and get us some points out of the game.

Reporter:

My question’s for Nicole, so you- last time you played it was against the Sirens and that was an overtime loss. But now this time you played and during the overtime period you were absolutely lights out. Just, what type of momentum does that build? Not only for your team but also your confidence as a goaltender for the rest of the season?

NICOLE HENSLEY:

I think in a season like this, especially when you’re on the road, it’s important to get points. Especially when in the back of peoples’ heads, it’s almost Christmas, it’s this that or whatever. So to be able to stay focused and stay in it today, obviously it helps us in the standings in the long run. In a team like New York they have a ton of speed and a ton of skill. So it’s really important to not let them have the puck in overtime. I’m sure we’ll keep working on that. But yeah, it’s definitely a confidence builder when you have, you know, people like Carp [Alex Carpenter] and Abby [Roque] coming down on you and you’ve played with them a long time. So it’s one of those, You know what I know that you know that I know that you’re gonna do? So just trying to stay in front of it, I guess.

Reporter:

This is for either one of you, this offseason, obviously was pretty interesting for you guys. How’d you guys maintain staying as a team and still being able to come out on top of the league despite all the [???] this offseason?

MIRA JALOSUO:

Well, I think it’s the same thing for the players and as a coach, control what you can control. End of the day, we are not making all the decisions. It’s the league. The only thing we can control is come to the rink and do our job.

NICOLE HENSLEY:

I think we’re a really tight-knit group, despite what is out there. We know our locker room better than anybody. And we’re in a good place.

[upontherisers]

my mota OCs as olympians because i have to

mahalia - reigning gold medalist in women’s tennis but not the favorite because of the injury struggles. she has a fiery relationship with her doubles partner, fellow princeton alumni john egan. know for a mouth and a temper, plays with tactical precision and crazy speed, and is not someone you want to get in a fight with on twitter. she has a nike campaign and a racquet you can buy at dick’s sporting goods and outfits that have her fans making edits of her to meg songs on tiktok. doesn’t play about her parents. is coming into this olympics with less fire than usual, but her best playing in two years. some think she learned from the injury, some think it’s getting a new coach, but everyone can agree that it’s definitely not getting a new training partner in john egan, who seems to be the only person seeing the old mahalia on the court.

bucky - back to back tour champion. hasn’t medaled at the olympics yet, but after a roller coaster first five professional seasons, he’s held it together these past two seasons mostly due to a coaching switch. bowman seems to pick the problem kids. charming, strong, looks good in wristbands, has an undefinable relationship with a woman who could knock him unconscious with a tennis ball. he seems to linger around mahalia more and more as they fight less and less. they even stood with each other for the parade of nations. has a real shot this year.

hazel - beach volleyball, plays with sheila hartman. third olympics. got silver in her first, bronze in her second, and is chasing that elusive gold using momentum from the best professional season of her career. played on a national championship indoor team at stanford and everyone assumed she’d go pro in europe like her older brother did, but she joined the beach circuit instead. she’s found lots of success there, but there’s always been a “what if” hanging over her head. maybe this year she can prove that she’s right where she needs to be. is very friendly and welcoming to new players, but it’s no more mr. nice guy come game time

jack - two-time indoor volleyball olympian, first time beach volleyball olympian. it’s worse on his knees but easier on his shoulders. (there’s definitely something going on between him and hazel keene, right? or is it just me?)

dora - 100m and 400m hurdles. two timer. she’s fucking fast. always has her nails did, hair did, and face beat on track. always smiling. dating fellow columbia law student and olympian rosie rosenthal, a triathlete. hops the into the stands to hug him when she wins. has darren, delilah, and her grandparents’ names drawn on her shoes. wants to be a sports agent for black athletes when she retires.

rosie - proud boyfriend first, law student second, olympian third. not here to win, but brings home an honorable bronze nonetheless. dora definitely makes tiktoks about being a world-class athlete and student at the same time and rosie is in a lot of them and the world is in love with him but he’s the most married man of all time without being married.

vera - women’s eight rower, bow. top of the field in her sport, less than 5k followers on the instagram, incredible husband and beautiful, loud husky at home. she’s living the life. advocates for mental health in sports and coaches rowing when she’s not competing. rowed with ginny in college and hopes to defend her title from last olympics. has a smattering of tattoos and approx 12 piercings in each ear. married to u.s. men’s soccer player ben demarco (not playing this season due to injury but followed his wife to paris. making hab content on ig and tt)

ginny - women’s eight rower, seat 6. daughter of two olympic rowers. her two oldest brother, danny, and second youngest brother, peter (at the olympics) row quadruple sculls and quadruple sweep respectively. her youngest brother nathan is a ncaa champion eight, just like her. she and vera match their outfits each race, including hair and jewelry (up to 2 piercings, ginny ain’t doing all that).

lola - 50-200m freestyle. swims a crazy anchor leg for the women’s and mixed relays. the only person happier than her when she wins is fellow swimmer john brady.

bobbie - indoor volleyball, middle blocker. 2x ncaa player of the year and 4x first team all-american lighting europe tf up in her first professional season. but is it enough? her father, robert chambers, was on the last u.s. men’s team to win gold and she’s expected to outmatch his legacy by defending the u.s.’s title.

dolores - park skateboarder who takes on the course in wired headphones and not only does she not get tangled, she normally wins. soooooooooooooo bisexual.

[clubhoops]

South Carolina women’s basketball secured a major win on Thursday afternoon as Ayla McDowell, a five-star recruit, announced her commitment to the Gamecocks via Instagram Live.

McDowell, a 6-foot-2 wing from Cypress, Texas, is ranked No. 20 in the 2025 class by ESPN. She currently plays for Cypress Springs High School, just outside of Houston, and is known for her versatility and athleticism on the court.

Coach Dawn Staley's squad beat out powerhouse programs like LSU, Mississippi State, Georgia Tech, Florida, and TCU to land the talented recruit. McDowell’s decision highlights the continued momentum and influence of South Carolina’s program under Staley’s leadership.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Sign going up on Pennsylvania turnpike

* * * *

The future of the Democratic Party on display

August 22, 2024

Robert B. Hubbell

My overarching impression of the third night of the convention is that the future of the Democratic Party was on display, and it was beautiful sight! The bench is deep and will carry us forward for two generations. By my count, there were four future Democratic presidents (at least) on the dais on Wednesday evening. As on previous nights, the convention choreography was expertly crafted to communicate to all Americans—not merely the Democratic faithful. It was a fun, raucous evening capped by a terrific speech by Tim Walz.

It is odd to write about an event that most readers watched live. You saw it with your own eyes, so it feels presumptuous to assume that my observations are unique. Tonight, less is more. I will remark on a few highlights and then rely on readers to continue their cogent observations in the Comment section. I urge all readers to review the Comment section to see what readers of this newsletter community thought about the third night.

Tim Walz delivered

Tim Walz proved again that Kamala Harris chose wisely. Tim is an effective communicator who comes across as an “everyman” who is trusted by everyone. In the end, Walz morphed into a football coach giving a half-time pep talk about the state of the race. He said that we are “down by a field goal” and we have the ball and are driving down the field.

That metaphor signals that Democrats are the underdog but have momentum. That is the right message at this moment. We can take nothing for granted.

We have heard most of Tim Walz’s speech before, but he delivered it with new energy and purpose while remaining completely relatable and earnest.

Walz wisely began his speech by saying, “We are all here tonight for one simple reason: We love this country.”

In a line that will be on bumper stickers and posters in classrooms across America, Walz said that he ran (and won) in a deep red congressional district against steep odds, saying, “You know what, never underestimate a public school teacher.”

He listed his accomplishments as Governor of Minnesota, a prelude to listing Kamala Harris’s policy priorities. His state-level accomplishments align neatly with Kamala Harris’s campaign proposals. When Walz began to list Harris’s policies, he said, “Clip this portion of the video and send it to your relatives who are unsure about how to vote.”

Among the policies Walz mentioned were the following:

Cutting taxes for the middle class.

Extending the child tax credit

Taking on big pharma.

Making home-buying more affordable.

Fighting for freedom to live the life you want to lead.

Among the most important accomplishments described by Walz as governor, he said, “We made sure that every kid in state gets breakfast and lunch every day. So, while other states were banishing books, we were banishing hunger.”

Walz used “freedom” as a theme—contrasting the Democratic and Republican views of freedom. Walz framed freedom as respecting choices, including reproductive choices. He reprised the line, “We respect choices; and we have a golden rule: Mind your own damn business.” Republicans, on the other hand, see “freedom” as the right of government to interfere in your life.

Walz effectively addressed Project 2025 by saying, “I know, as a football coach, that when someone goes to the trouble of drawing up a playbook, they are going to use it!” He said Project 2025 is “an agenda that serves only the richest among us.”

He spent a few moments criticizing Trump, saying, “Trump's own people warned us about Trump. Leaders don’t spend all day insulting people.”

Two comments about events surrounding Tim Walz’s speech. First, the sight of Tim’s son, Gus, weeping with joy and saying, “That’s my dad” was heartwarming. More importantly, it spoke volumes about the love in the Walz family—a stark contrast to the fractured, transactional relationships in the Trump family. Gus’s reaction will “go viral” for being proud of his dad. You can’t pay for advertising like that.

Second, immediately before Tim Walz spoke, a former student introduced the football team members that Tim Walz helped coach to a national championship. Those players—now men—took the stage bursting with joy and affection for Walz. The GOP could not replicate that scene even if they hired actors from Craigslist.

As framed and delivered, the speech by Tim Walz was a home run.

The joyousness of the third night

During the prime-time hours, two musical acts pumped up the volume. Stevie Wonder sang Higher Ground, while John Legend and Sheila E. performed Prince’s Let's Go Crazy. Also, Neil Young granted permission to the DNC to use “Rockin’ in the Free World” as the “walk-on” music for Tim Walz. The performances helped sustain the energy and momentum from the first two nights.

Two special presentations

The organizers included two special presentations that addressed urgent issues: January 6 and Project 2025.

The video presentation on the violence of January 26 was impactful, frightening, and motivating. It needed to be done; indeed, how could Democrats not address it? This is the first post-January 6 presidential election. But, as Joe Biden found out, Americans do not seem to be motivated by dwelling on January 6. I wish it were otherwise. But they are responding to the forward-looking, positive message of the Harris-Walz ticket.

The organizers also addressed Project 2025 through Saturday Night Live cast member Keenan Thompson. Thompson interviewed four Americans and then explained how project 2025 would impact their jobs, personal choices, and access to healthcare. Although the subject is serious, the decision to approach it with humor was creative and engaging. The organizers continue to find creative ways to communicate to the American people.

Bill Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton gave a wonderful speech but went on too long and threw off the schedule for the rest of the evening.

Among Clinton’s memorable statements were his praise for President Biden, of whom he said,

Biden healed our sick and put the best of us back to work. He repaired our alliances. He voluntarily gave up political power. I want to thank him for his courage, compassion, class, service, and sacrifice. [Spontaneous eruption of chants, “Thank you, Joe.”]

Clinton urged the delegates to temper their joy with lessons from the past—harkening back to Trump's interference in Hillary Clinton’s campaign:

We have seen more than one election slip away from us because we were distracted by phony issues. This is a brutal business. I want you to be happy. But never underestimate your adversary. They are very good at triggering doubt and buyer’s remorse. We got to be tough.

He concluded by predicting that voting for Harris and Walz would be a generational gift:

If you vote for this team and bring in this team and their breath of fresh air, you will be proud of it for the rest of your life. Your children and grandchildren will be proud of it.

The rest of the lineup

Nancy Pelosi gave a speech.

Josh Shapiro gave a passionate, barnburner, forward-looking, traditional convention speech befitting a presidential nominee. While remarkable, it felt like he was auditioning for 2028 or 2032. In fairness, he wasn’t the only person doing so on Wednesday (or previous nights). He is a prodigious speaker with a long runway ahead of him.

Amanda Gorman, the poet and activist, delivered a beautiful, thoughtful poem. Among the many fine lines in the poem, I was struck by these:

“Cohering is the hardest task history ever wrote.” “While we all love freedom, it is love that frees us all.”

Oprah Winfrey rose to the occasion. Democrats need to get Oprah out on the campaign trail for Harris-Walz. She is a gifted speaker who oozes credibility and genuineness. She noted that she is registered as an independent and “voted on values.” She said,

Character matters most of all, and decency and respect are on the ballot in 2024. Let us choose loyalty to the constitution over loyalty to any individual. Let us choose optimism over cynicism. Let us choose common sense over nonsense.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore gave a short speech in which he established himself as a leading figure in the party's future for years to come.

Pete Buttigieg was amazing, as always. He is a gifted communicator who is able to connect with Americans across the political spectrum. He described dinnertime at his home with his son and daughter, a scene immediately recognizable to hundreds of millions of Americans. He contrasted his inclusive family with the exclusive, narrow vision of family being promoted by JD Vance.

Buttigieg reminded the delegates that Vance said, “People who don’t have kids don’t have a physical commitment to the future of the country.” Buttigieg said that his service in Afghanistan “outside the wire” was “pretty damn physical” even though Buttigieg did not have kids at that time.

Buttigieg closed by saying that Republicans had “doubled down on darkness” in choosing JD Vance as their vice-presidential candidate.

After the speeches concluded, delegates stayed in the convention hall floor, cheering and dancing, not wanting the third evening to end! They understood that what happened in the convention hall on Wednesday was historic—the passing of the torch to successive generations of Democratic leaders.

RFK Jr. will withdraw and endorse Trump

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is withdrawing from the presidential race, announcing that he will endorse Trump. That endorsement confirms what we knew all: RFK Jr. was a stalking horse for Trump to help defeat Biden. The always smart Josh Marshall of Talking Points Memo, wrote:

My final thought is that Kennedy is so weird and now so universally recognized as weird and this endorsement — if that’s what it is — would appear so corrupt that I’m not sure it really plays as a positive. When I say corrupt, he’s been pretty visibly asking each campaign basically what their best offer is.

Kennedy’s support has shrunk to the low single digits, any impact on the presidential race will likely be de minimis.

[Robert B. Hubbell Newsletter]

[bongaboi]

Florida: 2024 Gasparilla Bowl Champions

TAMPA, Fla. — At the end of an oftentimes turbulent season and a game with its share of yawns, the Gators did what winning bowl teams do.

They danced and laughed and took silly photos together. They clutched the Gasparilla Bowl trophy and paraded around the field at Raymond James Stadium, relishing Friday's 33-8 victory over Tulane.

Florida's first bowl victory in five seasons was far from a masterpiece, but that had little significance to the players and coaches celebrating the final moments of a long and trying season.

"Great to finish the right way,'' head coach Billy Napier said.

The Gators, after a pair of blowout losses to Miami and Texas A&M early in the season, after Napier's future in charge of the program was in question, after losing several key players to season-ending injuries, after not becoming bowl-eligible until the next-to-last game of the regular season, finished the season on a four-game winning streak and a healthy dose of momentum heading into 2025.

Florida's season featured more zigzags than anything the players rode at Busch Gardens earlier in the week. And Fridays' thumping of the Green Wave was no different.

Two moments stood above all others in the end. Both featured 6-foot-5, 449-pound senior defensive lineman Desmond Watson, who grew up a short drive from downtown Tampa and played at nearby Armwood High School. The first came in the first quarter when Watson stopped Tulane quarterback Ty Thompson on a third-and-2 play at UF's 48. Watson didn't just stop Thompson short of the first down; he bear-hugged him and lifted him three feet off the ground as officials blew their whistles. He turned the 6-foot-4, 224-pound Thompson into a rag doll.

The second play that had people talking about Watson afterward — and earned him a highlight on ESPN's "SportsCenter" — happened on third-and-1 from Tulane's 26-yard line late in the fourth quarter as Florida attempted to run out the clock. Napier inserted Watson into the game at running back as part of what the Gators call the "Hawk Package," a nod to Armwood High's mascot.

"Been thinking about it the whole year," Napier said. "And Des has played really good. Bowl games, you're looking for buttons to push. I think this one helped our team. You saw that sideline light up when he went out there. A lot of fun, and he did a great job. I think the guys rallied around him."

Watson took the handoff from backup quarterback Aidan Warner and rumbled for a first down to the delight of the prominent Orange & Blue faithful among the announced crowd of 41,472. Watson stayed in on the next play to serve as lead blocker for walk-on running back Anthony Rubio, the son of Florida senator Marco Rubio.

The party had officially started with the Gators on their way to a final touchdown scored on a 9-yard run by Rubio, a walk-on who rushed six times for 32 yards in his memorable bowl debut. Watson grinned ear to ear when discussing his turn in the spotlight.

"It was great,'' he said. "Since I came to college, every time I go on the internet, I see somebody say I should be in some type of package to get the ball, especially since I wear No. 21, a running back number. I never really looked too much into it. I never went to Coach Napier about it. But I feel like he's seen it, too. It was a great moment to finish off my career as a Florida Gator."

Watson even did a Heisman pose when he returned to the sideline.

"They were begging me to do it," he said.

Watson is part of a senior class that had not tasted victory in a bowl game until Friday. He is a rarity in today's landscape, playing as a true freshman in 2021 and spending all four seasons at one school.

Watson said he had 20 friends and family at the game and, more than anything else, wanted to leave the field as a winner in his final game.

"That was the biggest thing for me, being here all four years, that was a great way to finish it,'' Watson said. "I feel like the season we had, it set the floor for the young guys. I say the floor because we always feel like we need to get better. If things go the way they should go, I feel like I'm part of the reason and helped the team."

While Watson's show-stopping moments highlighted the victory, Gators true freshman quarterback DJ Lagway (22 of 35, 305 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT) earned MVP honors. Lagway tossed a 7-yard touchdown to tight end Tony Livingston late in the third quarter to overcome a pair of first-half interceptions that cost the Gators in the red zone.

Lagway finished 6-1 as Florida's starting quarterback and was undefeated in games he started and finished. His only loss came to Georgia when he left the game in the second quarter with the Gators leading because of a hamstring injury. Lagway is still not 100 percent, but he and kicker Trey Smack (four field goals) provided enough offense for the Gators to turn back the Green Wave handily.

But he was not satisfied.

"It's a bad taste in my mouth, that performance,'' Lagway said. "I was just playing bad football, not taking care of the football. Seeing plays that I thought I could make and just forcing it."

Lagway's two interceptions, one a pass into coverage in the end zone, became a nonfactor thanks to another strong defensive performance. Despite missing starting defensive linemen Caleb Banks and Cam Jackson to injuries and edge rusher T.J. Searcy absent after he entered the transfer portal, the Gators recorded three interceptions, stopped Tulane on fourth down three times, and limited the Green Wave to a season-low 194 yards.

"We were sloppy early,'' Napier said. "We were a little rusty on offense. We could have had control of the game earlier if we played cleaner on offense. You're going to have days like that. That's why you play complementary ball.

"One of the reasons we've been able to turn it around is we've played really good defense. Today was no different. We stopped the run. We made them one-dimensional. We kept the shots in front of us. We did a good job of tackling on the perimeter."

Smack scored the early points, Lagway was MVP, and the defense dominated. Those factors added to a winning recipe, as Florida finished 8-5 in its first winning season since 2020. With the victory, Napier climbed back to .500 (19-19) and boarded the bus back to Gainesville, eager to work on the future.

But before all that, he took part in the fun. He put in a running play for Watson that they created on the fly.

"I can do it all,'' Watson said.

"We literally put the play in on the field at practice,'' Napier said. "The guys were, 'Hey, give him the ball, Coach. Give him the ball.'

"Have you ever seen a 400-plus guy run the ball before?"

No, Coach, we have not. Refrigerator Perry was listed at only 335 pounds. But it was fun to watch, another memorable moment in a season full of plot twists.

[return-to-twisted-wonderland]

🌸 Anon

Book 1 🌹, Classes and chasing Grim

Elisa: We’ll have to figure this out later, we probably don’t want to be late for classes

[So the four first years had no choice but to head to their classes to think of something else. Surprisingly enough it turns out Elisa and Grim are in the same homeroom as Ace and Deuce so at least Elisa and Grim would not be completely lost. Though this just means there is a very good chance Elisa will not be able to meet up with either of her brothers for awhile she imagines. When attending the classes. Elisa got to see quite a few interesting teachers. Class 1A’s homeroom teacher and also the potionology teacher Crewel(She thinks he seems strict and she is worried her magic might accidentally cause something in the laboratory to explode), the history of magic teacher Trein(Elisa has no clue or memory what Twisted Wonderland is like so she was able to stay awake and pay attention despite the monotone voice of said teacher. She also wonders if Idia ever tried to pet that cat the professor just so happens to have), and finally Coach Vargas who is definitely the physical education teacher of NRC(Elisa is grateful she is good at running since well, she has ran away from certain stuff before. Dodging too………the push ups she can live without). They didn’t seem too terrible or worrying, in fact she thought things were going great. Until she learned Grim apparently ditched her, Ace, and Deuce]

Elisa: No no no, You crazy cat GET BACK HERE!

[she than look at Ace and Deuce]

Elisa: Hey, can you please help. We’re friends right?

Ace: I do love the chocolate croissants at the co-op

Deuce: I’d do it for an iced latte at the cafeteria

Elisa: 💢

[Her eye twitched]

Elisa: Are you both serious right now. Fine, I’ll do it myself

Ace: Huh? What do you mean by your-

[Seconds later Elisa goes to the window and opens it]

Elisa: Don’t tell Onii-Chan and Orthy what I’m about to do

[She climbs out of it and jumps straight out of it before grabbing onto a nearby tree as she falls swinging on it to give her momentum to launch herself towards the direction to Grim(She had practice doing these kind of tricks and moves before after all)]

Elisa: YOU ARE NOT GETTING AWAY FROM ME YOU CRAZY CAT!

[Her yell was heard throughout the entire courtyard. Ace and Deuce still left flabbergasted looking at what the actual heck Elisa did]

Ace: ...What the fuck....

[bridgertonbabe]

For the Strictly AU, I'm thinking Kate isn't the only one in her family to get into dancing professionally and get hired by the show.

As a toddler Edwina had always fidgeted in Mary's lap as they watched Kate's ballroom classes, desperate to wriggle out of her mother's grasp and join her big sister and the rest of the class in learning how to waltz. Whenever Kate practiced at home Edwina would insist on dancing with her and she'd eagerly call their parents to come and watch them dance. Naturally as soon as she was capable enough she joined the ballroom classes, her interest never waning in the slightest and her love of dance only building lesson by lesson. The older she got, the more she wanted to follow in her sister's footsteps and compete nationally, wishing to emulate Kate when she watched her win her first championship at the Blackpool Tower ballroom. She would go on to achieve the very same title as her sister four years later, as well as secure other championships all across Europe, before being cast in a live dance show that toured the world. And then she was presented with an offer she had been dying to receive ever since Kate had got the gig - a role as a professional dancer on Strictly. From the casting producer's perspective it was a no-brainer of who to replace Kate as she took maternity leave, and of course Edwina ecstatically accepted with her sister's blessing.

She was slightly apprehensive of who her celebrity partner might be, worried that as a newcomer she might have to pay her dues by pairing up with a rhythmically-challenged contestant before she got the chance to perform with someone even half-decent. However she was pleasantly relieved when she was paired up with wildlife cameraman and presenter Matty Bagwell. On the initial day where the professionals had met the contestants, Matty had been very shy and apprehensive to even be taking part in the series, but Edwina had observed that despite his modesty there was definitely potential to work with simply in the natural way he moved in time to the music and how he was far lighter on his feet than he gave himself credit for.

As rehearsals started, Edwina was massively impressed by just how natural a ballroom dancer he was, barely needing any coaching in perfecting his posture and having a seamlessly perfect top line. She was pleased as punch when the judges sang their praises in the very first week and though she wanted to keep the momentum going, Matty struggled with their next couple of dances, feeling self-conscious and down on himself and expressing how bad he felt for letting her down. Edwina assured him that he could never disappoint her and encouraged him not to hang on to the previous week's dance, and instead start afresh with their next routine, telling him that she truly had utter faith that he had the potential to go very far in the competition, if only he believed in himself as much as she believed in him. With her words motivating him, Matty put his all into rehearsals for the next week and the efforts paid off massively as they topped the leaderboard the following Saturday with the highest score of the series thus far with this routine;

Edwina was positively over the moon that her dance partner was letting go of his inhibitions and embracing the joy of dance, and he only continued to excel in every routine they did as the series progressed. She couldn't be prouder of him week after week, and she was always so incredibly touched with how much he expressed his gratitude to her and credited her for her wonderfully thought out choreography and the patience and grace she provided him with as his teacher. As the competition wore on, their bond deepened and Edwina took great pleasure in being in his company within the confines of the show and out of it.

"Ooh, Matty took me bird-watching the other day and get this; we saw a kingfisher!" she regaled her pregnant sister when she joined Kate and Anthony for dinner. "Honestly photos don't do it justice in just how vibrant the colours of their feathers are, and Matty said I was so lucky to see one on my first time on the lookout for them!"

"Oh wow! Did you get a photo?" Kate conversed.

"I didn't, no, and there's no way in hell I'd ever manage to take a snap of it even if I tried, but Matty had his camera on him and managed to take a bunch! It's so funny, he even zoomed out and got a photo of me pointing at it with the dopiest look on my face!"

"So was that for your VT this week?" Anthony asked.

"No, not at all. Matty asked if I wanted to go bird-watching with him and I thought, why not? There's a first time for everything, and who better to go with than a wildlife expert? And I'm so glad I did - oh, I didn't mention we saw a water vole too! Matty said they're on the decline which is so sad because they're so cute,"

Edwina continued wittering away, oblivious to the conspiring looks her sister and brother-in-law shared with one another as they ate their dinner - and notably, Edwina had barely touched her plate due to her non-stop chatter about her day out with Matty.

"Oh, and did you know Matty's not short for Matthew? It's short for Mathius!" she brightly mentioned later on in the evening after she and Kate had retired to the sofa.

"Fascinating, but Eddie; can I ask you something?"

"Sure?"

"This day out bird-watching with Matty... was it a date?" Kate asked carefully with a gentle raise of her eyebrow.

Edwina's mouth hovered open in surprise, not having anticipated her sister's out-of-nowhere line of questioning.

"W-what? No. No. No, Matty and I are just friends."

"Oh. Okay." Kate shrugged.

"But why? Why would you think it was a date?"

Kate smiled at her sister softly and reached over to tuck a stray lock of hair behind Edwina's ear. "You've talked about him all night long, Bon. And I know it's only natural seeing as he's the main person in your life at the moment while the series is running, but I can't help but sense that there's some affection for him." Kate explained. "I don't think I've ever heard you talk about anyone at length the way you've spoken about him. In fact, you seem brighter than ever before since you've been partnered with him."

Edwina was stunned to say the least with her sister's impression of how she supposedly felt towards Matty, though she couldn't deny the strange stuttering in her heart as she processed Kate's assessment of her relationship with her celebrity partner.

"It... it's probably just the high of doing so well on my first series. Why I'm brighter then ever before, like you said." she managed to respond (even if her voice was admittedly feeble-sounding).

"Sure." Kate nodded with a knowing sisterly look before she changed the subject by showing her a bunch of stuff she had recently ordered for the nursery.

However Kate's words stayed with Edwina, weighing heavily on her mind, especially when Matty showed up to the training studio with a bouquet of flowers and a box of Lindor chocolates to thank her for getting him to the halfway point of the competition. For the rest of the week, every time she indulged in the chocolates or stared at the bright orange flowers, Kate's words replayed over and over again as Edwina timidly examined her own feelings towards her partner.

She had liked Matty from the off and she enjoyed getting to know him, gradually peeling back the layers to learn more and more about him. She was utterly captivated by him every time he talked about his passion for wildlife and admired him whole-heartedly for how enthusiastic he was about his chosen career path. She knew without a doubt that she'd do anything to maintain their friendship even after the end of the series - but could she see herself wanting even more than that?

Matty wasn't like anyone she had ever met before. All the people she had primarily dated were fellow dancers, all of them playful and possessing confidence in spades, though the confidence often easily crossed over into arrogance and the competitiveness that came with the territory was insane at the best of times. Anyone else she had dated outside of the dancing world had been perfectly fine, though they always lacked the spark she expected she should feel for someone romantically.

Matty was different. He was shy and retiring, pleasant and laid-back, incredibly knowledgeable and insightful, sweet and soft-spoken, kind and thoughtful. He always vocalised his appreciation for her as a teacher and as a friend, he hung on her every word whenever she was explaining a dance technique or telling him all about the latest episode of Vanderpump Rules, and he gave her the warmest hugs every time they greeted and every time they parted ways. He was a one of kind, he fascinated her endlessly, and she had even gotten into watching nature documentaries just so she could better understand his innate love for wildlife and discuss it with him.

But did that amount to romantic feelings for him? Was Kate on to something? Or was the intense working proximity between them simply making her feel confused about her feelings towards him?

Edwina remained in her inexperienced limbo of denial for the next several weeks, doing everything she could to maintain a purely platonic working relationship with Matty - though it was difficult to implement such a thing when being in his company brought her so much joy and comfort. It became a little easier to ignore her bubbling feelings as they sailed through to the finale, and the intense training schedule provided enough distraction for her to not deal with the deepening affection she held for him.

Much to their shared jubilation, they were named the winners of the series, with Matty dedicating his winner's speech entirely to her. It did nothing to quell her feelings for him; feelings which she could now admit were romantic, if only to herself.

After a raucous after-party to celebrate their victory, Edwina woke up at three in the afternoon the next day. She pottered about her flat as she coped with her hangover, lounging on the sofa until there was a knock at the door. When she opened it she found Matty laden with takeout; a takeout she only just remembered they had agreed to prior to the live finale regardless if they won or not.

While she wished she had tried to make an effort with her appearance, Matty wasn't the least bit fazed with how unpolished she was and cheerfully set out dinner for them and happily chatted with her. Her hangover improved remarkably as they feasted and wittered away together, reflecting on their dance journey and reminiscing on the last three months together. At one point Edwina felt a pang of emotion hitting her square in the chest as she realised this might be the last proper time they'd get to hang out with each other. Matty's win would definitely solidify his prominence in the public eye and with that would come increased job opportunities, and Edwina couldn't help feeling upset at the prospect of the unknown, not knowing what the future had in store and fearing the bond between them would disappear as soon as they weren't in one another's constant company.

"Eddie?"

"Mhm?"

Matty exhaled, drumming his fingers against the table, and she quickly realised he was nervous. Instinctively she reached out, her fingers slotting with his until she was grasping his hand, the action of which surprised him as he stared at their intertwined hands.

"Is everything okay?" she asked him.

"Yeah. Yeah of course... It's just that... there's something I want to say and I just... I don't want to make things weird but if I don't say it now I'm worried I might burst."

"So say it." Edwina encouraged him, her heartbeat starting to pick up in pace and her hope began to rise at the possible reason behind what it was he was dying to say.

He met her gaze, and though hesitant for a second, she saw a determination in him that reared up whenever they practiced a routine and also when he took her bird-watching on his personal quest to provide her with the sight of seeing something worthwhile.

"Edwina." he breathed her name out as his hand gently squeezed hers. "These last three months have been nothing short of amazing, rewarding, life-changing... and I owe that all to you. This experience has meant everything to me. Not just because I learnt how to dance and somehow ended up a winner... but because I met you. Our friendship has meant everything to me, even more than winning the show... and if I'm being honest... I've fallen in love with you."

She inhaled deeply, her heart racing like never before as his confession set off what felt like millions of giddy butterflies in her stomach.

"I'm sorry if me saying that makes you feel uncomfortable because you don't feel the same back, and I don't expect you too either." Matty carried on speedily, desperately wanting to get everything out in fear of her cutting him off and shutting him down. "But I just wanted you to know that I think you're the sweetest, most graceful and patient, intelligent, and beautiful person I've ever met and I've cherished every last second I've had the honour of getting to spend time with you. And I'm sorry if I've ruined our friendship by saying all this because obviously how could someone like you ever like someone like me in that way, but I knew if I didn't say ianything I'd always live with the regret-"

Matty was momentarily startled when suddenly his lips were covered by Edwina's, but as soon as he realised that his feelings were being reciprocated he relaxed into the embrace and kissed her back.

"I've fallen in love with you too, by the way." Edwina withdrew from their kiss to mention. "I've never felt like this about anyone before and I just love everything about you."

The sweetest smile beamed back at her before Matty pulled her back in for a kiss. As her arms wrapped around his neck, Edwina knew that what she and Matty had was the real deal, knowing then and there that she'd never dream of wanting to kiss anyone else but him and feeling exhilarated at the thought of their future together.

[emophil1981]

Sean and Marco - swimming towards love

The campus was just awakening as Sean’s electric wheelchair gently hummed down the sidewalk. The early sun cast golden rays on the dewy grass, and he could feel the warmth embrace him, energizing his spirit. Although still a bit early for most students, he found solace in the quietude.

“Today’s another day, Sean!” he muttered to himself, a bright smile breaking across his face. Swimming as an athlete felt more like an exhilarating adventure than a mere goal to him. He wasn’t just a participant; he was a warrior.

As he entered the aquatic center, neon blue tiles glimmered under the fluorescent lights. The scent of chlorine filled the air, familiar and comforting. This was his sanctuary.

“Hey, Sea Bass!” A voice rang out from behind the registration desk. It was Jenna, his swim coach and one of his biggest supporters. Her fiery red hair and enthusiastic personality always diminished the seriousness of training.

“Morning, Jenna!” Sean replied, an undeniable lilt of excitement in his voice. He maneuvered his wheelchair to the edge of the pool. “Ready to turn me into a dolphin today?”

“More like a Paralympic dolphin.” She chuckled, leaning over the counter. “You’re gonna make some serious waves!”

With a few adjustments, Sean turned off his wheelchair and prepared to transfer to the pool’s edge. The moment he hopped off, he felt the smooth coolness of the tiles beneath his foot. He adjusted himself, swinging his right leg to gain balance and momentum. Hopping on his single leg had become a rhythmic dance of its own over the years. He never saw himself as less; he saw himself as uniquely capable.

“Just like that! One hop, two hop!” Jenna called out, mimicking the movements with her arms as if guiding him in a playful ballet. He laughed, enjoying her energy.

After what felt like mere moments, he reached the edge of the pool. “Three, two—” he counted, and with a final determined hop, he leaped into the water with practiced grace. The resistance pulled him under for just a heartbeat, and then he kicked out, gliding through the liquid world like a fish.

“Come on!” Jenna shouted from the side, where she meticulously recorded notes on a clipboard. Sean focused, shifting his body as he swam, feeling every move. He pushed against the water with his foot and toes, mastering the art of propulsion with an intensity that was both exhilarating and freeing.

After an intense training session, he rested at the pool’s edge, panting and exhilarated. “Not too shabby for a mere mortal, huh?” he said, splashing some water towards Jenna by shaking his head.

“Are you kidding? You’re already a superhero in my book! How’s it feel to be a dolphin?” she teased back, leaning over the edge of the pool to catch his eye.

“It feels—I don’t know—like I’m doing exactly what I was meant to do. Like the water understands me.” He gazed at the blue surface. The serenity washed over him in waves, soothing every worry and doubt that had ever haunted him.

Eventually, they wrapped up practice, and as Sean hopped out of the pool, he felt exhaustion settle in. “Gotta go shower. You know—fishy feet and all,” he chuckled, but behind that humor lay the honesty of an exhausting day.

Later that day, he attended classes. Social Psychology was one of his favorite subjects. As he wheeled into the room, he met his friend, Molly. Her warm smile was infectious. “Hey, Sean! You ready to solve the world’s problems today?”

“Always! But I might need a minute. My brain is still half-waterlogged.” He laughed softly as he settled in, positioning himself comfortably at a table designed for group discussions.

In the midst of class, the professor posed a question about overcoming adversity. Sean raised his foot, utilizing his toes like fingers, and typed effortlessly on his tablet. His classmates watched him, some in awe, while others just exchanged respectful glances.

“I think adversity is an invitation for innovation,” he replied, his voice steady and insightful. “It pushes us to find new ways to connect, to adapt, to even thrive when it seems impossible.” His words resonated throughout the room, making the atmosphere heavier with thought yet lighter with inspiration.

After classes, he met up with his friends at the campus café. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. “What’s on the menu today?” he asked, guiding his wheelchair to the table.

“Chocolate chip cookies, as always. A good post-practice tradition,” Molly winked, offering him a cookie.

“Always a choice classic,” Sean grinned, munching playfully.

“I have a question for you,” she tapped her chin, an inquisitive look on her face. “How do you manage to stay so upbeat all the time? You make it look easy.”

Sean paused for a moment. “It’s not about being upbeat all the time. It’s about embracing the struggles and celebrating the victories—big or small. Today, it’s a good swim. Next week, it’s going to be beating my own time. Every day is a chance to be a better version of me, and that feels good.”

“How do you prepare for the Paralympics? It must be daunting,” another friend chimed in, genuine curiosity in his gaze.

“It’s like any other swim training,” Sean replied thoughtfully. “You have to focus on the water and feel the rhythm. I’m training hard, but I also have fun. It’s about the journey. The Paralympics will definitely happen for me one day, but right now, I’m just Sean—the swimmer focusing on getting better.”

As they continued exchanging banter, laughter echoed, mixing with the sounds of the bustling café. Sean felt grateful for moments like these, cherished reminders that community, friendship, and passion were the currents guiding him through life.

Eventually, exiting the café, Sean felt the weight of the day catching up to him, but the soft evening breeze brushed against his skin, encouraging him to look up at the sunset painting the sky in vibrant hues. “Another day down,” he whispered, ready to embrace whatever new challenges awaited him tomorrow.

And as he made his way back to his dorm, wheels rolling steadily, he reflected on his journey—from the young boy who had once lost so much to the incredible individual striving for greatness. A smile graced Sean’s lips, knowing that he would continue creating ripples across the waters of life and swimming into the future he was determined to inhabit. His participation in the Paralympics was just a fast flip of the flippers away.

The café was abuzz with chatter and clinking coffee cups the next day, the perfect backdrop for Sean’s afternoon ritual with his friends. He had just polished off another chocolate chip cookie when Ethan, his close friend and self-proclaimed hype-man, slid into the seat across from him.

“Hey, Sea Bass! Heard you’ve been ripping through the water like it's a new Netflix series,” Ethan teased, adjusting his thick glasses. “The other Paralympic athletes better watch out!”

“Only if they’re ready for the ‘one-foot wonder,’” Sean quipped back, a mischievous grin dancing on his lips. “You gotta admit, the tagline has a nice ring to it.”

Ethan erupted into laughter. “Exactly! We’ll slap that on a T-shirt and sell it for the fundraisers.” He leaned closer, lowering his voice conspiratorially. “So, any cute swimmers on your radar? You know an Olympic gold medalist would look great on your arm… or, well, you know, beside you, since you don’t have arms.”

Sean chuckled, but the playful banter hid a deeper longing. “Funny you mention that. There is this guy, Marco, from the swim team. He’s kind of brilliant,” Sean admitted. “He has this infectious laugh, and it’s not just because I can’t swim without looking like a flailing fish.”

“Marco, huh?” Ethan’s eyebrows wiggled playfully. “Is he the one with the dreamy curls? I saw him practicing the other day. Hot stuff!”

“Yup, that’s him,” Sean said, his cheeks flushing slightly. “He has this way of making practice feel less like a chore. But you know what? I’m just not sure if he’s into guys, let alone into a… well, me.”

“Remember what you told me about embracing who you are? You’re a catch, Sean! Not just a swimmer, but an amazing person.” Ethan’s sincerity wrapped around Sean like a cozy blanket. “Just go for it! You miss 100% of the chances you don’t take.”

“Yeah, you’re right. I should just tell him how I feel, right? What’s the worst that could happen?” Sean sighed, taking a sip of his coffee, but the echo of doubt lingered.

“Exactly! Plus, you’re not just any swimmer—you’re on the path to the next Paralympic games. You may even inspire him!” Ethan exclaimed, his eyes dancing with excitement.

With motivation swirling like steam from their mugs, Sean felt fortified. His thoughts spiraled toward training, Marco, and the looming challenge of opening up. “Alright, I’ll do it. After practice tomorrow, I’ll ask him to grab some food. Gotta make sure I look like a million bucks first, though.”

“Ha! You already do,” Ethan winked. “Now let’s get back to scheming world domination in the pool. What’s your plan for the afternoon?”

The topic quickly shifted back to swimming and training as they dove deep into discussions about techniques and routines. Sean felt the anxiety of approaching Marco fade, replaced by a determination fueled by friendship and laughter.

The next day at swim training Sean rolled onto the pool edge in his electric wheelchair.

“Come on, Sean! Jump in the water!” Jenna shouted, her hands flailing in excitement as she stood at the edge of the pool.

“Alright, alright!” he laughed, methodically hopping over to the edge. He had rehearsed his plan in the shower, during breakfast, and even while warming up at the pool. His heart fluttered as he caught a glimpse of Marco several lanes down, casually stretching, his curls bouncing in rhythm.

As he readied himself to jump into the pool, he noticed Marco glance his way, a curious smile brightening his face. The brief lock of eyes sent Sean’s heart racing, but his resolve surged.

He splashed into the water, propelling forward with powerful kicks of his single right leg, centering his focus. As practice progressed, he couldn't help but admire Marco’s grace and speed. The way he sliced through the water mirrored the sun’s reflection—beautiful and carefree.

“Alright, let’s pick up the pace!” Jenna shouted, emphasizing the transition into their final drills. “Sean, Marco, you’re up next for a relay!”

Sean’s stomach twisted in knots—a mix of excitement and nervous energy. He shared a few glances with Marco as they lined up, each swimmer revving up their excitement.

“Hey, Marco!” Sean called out when they regrouped. “Could we… maybe, you know, grab dinner after practice? Just to hang out?”

The hesitation felt palpable. Sean scanned his brain for encouraging words when Marco’s reaction flooded him with hope.

“Yeah, I’d love that!” Marco beamed, his eyes sparkling. “I was actually hoping to ask you the same thing. You know, to talk about our next goals in swimming!”

Relief washed over Sean like a tidal wave. “Perfect! I’ll make sure to look presentable then.” He grinned, balancing on his lone leg. “You don’t want to be seen with a soggy fish, after all.”

“Trust me, you’re more like a dolphin,” Marco chuckled, before diving into the pool, ready to conquer their relay.

After practice both guys go to a diner nearby.

Sean nervously fidgeted with his napkin held between his toes, the anticipation settling thick in the air as Marco slid into the booth across from him. “This place is awesome,” Marco said, glancing at the eclectic decor. “I love the vibe.”

“Yeah, it’s my go-to when I need a post-practice treat,” Sean said, trying to mask the butterflies flittering in his stomach.

“Same! It’s the perfect spot for a pre-Paralympic and in my case Olympic pep talk,” Marco laughed, taking a sip of soda.

With the food ordered, they exchanged stories about their favorite workouts and routines. Sean opened up about his accident, the adaptations he’d made, the challenges he faced daily. Marco listened intently, his expression shifting from curiosity to admiration.

“I can’t believe how inspiring you are,” Marco said sincerely. “You don’t just swim; you adapt and evolve every single day. That’s a whole new level of determination.”

Feeling bolstered by his words, Sean leaned in, relaxing slightly. “Thanks, man. It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned that life’s too short not to embrace who you are. Whether you’re in and out of the water or navigating life changes, it’s important to find joy.”

“Exactly!” Marco replied, his enthusiasm contagious. “And your outlook is refreshing. I can relate, too, in different ways…”

Before he could forge deeper into the conversation, the diner door swung open, and a group of loud students rushed in. They took over the space around them, laughter ringing resonantly, creating a lively atmosphere. Sean watched Marco’s expression, recognizing a flicker of discomfort, a shared moment of identification.

“Hey, Marco,” Sean leaned closer, “if you’re cool with it, I’d be glad to swim and thrive in this vibrant chaos together.”

Marco beamed, their eyes locking. “I’d like that a lot.”

As their plates arrived and they dove into light-hearted conversations and newfound shared interests, Sean felt more than just the warmth of friendship bloom between him and Marco; he felt that perhaps he had also caught a glimpse of something more.

And in that cozy diner, amidst belly laughs and dreams for the future, Sean began to realize that every wave he rode—whether in the water or in life—washed away doubt and paved the path to deeper connections.

The evening wore on in the cozy diner, warm laughter enveloping Sean and Marco like a soft hug. After devouring a plate of fries, Sean wiped the crumbs off the table with his foot. “This place serves the best comfort food. I could thrive on fries alone!” he chuckled.

Marco leaned back, his expression bright with amusement. “Fries for a champion swimmer? Maybe that’s your secret weapon!” His dark curls bounced with each laugh, making Sean’s heart flutter.

“Just part of my nutritious diet,” Sean teased. “I balance it with a few laps in the pool. It’s a delicate ecosystem.”

Their laughter melded effortlessly, but beneath it all, a layer of tension hung in the air, something almost electric. Marco leaned closer, his voice lowering slightly. “So, Sean… can I be honest about something?”

“Always,” Sean replied, his heart racing, knowing the moment was pivotal.

“I like you. Like, really like you.” Marco’s gaze held steady, a mixture of vulnerability and strength sparkling in his eyes. “Not in spite of your amputations, but because of them. You’re… different, in a way that captivates me.”

The words hung between them, echoing like a chant in Sean’s mind. He was used to hearing admiration for his determination, but not for his unique circumstances. “You’re serious?” he stammered, trying to mask his astonishment. “You actually like me because I’m…”

“Different?” Marco interjected, his tone soft. “Yes. You’ve crafted your own world, Sean. You’ve built strengths where many would falter, and that resilience is incredibly attractive. It shows me how beautifully you’re living your life, embracing every bit of who you are.”

Sean felt a warmth spread through him, mingling with uncertainty. “I… I’ve never truly met someone who saw it that way. What’s it like for you? To be interested in someone who’s, you know, missing a few limbs?”

“I find it beautiful, actually,” Marco admitted, leaning even closer. “To me, it’s not about what’s absent, but what’s present. You have this fierce spirit, a drive that radiates from you. And I can’t help but be drawn to that.” He paused, searching for words. “It’s kind of like how you glide through the water…one legged, but effortless and strong. I want to explore every part of that.”

Sean was stunned, his heart racing. The layers of insecurities he’d harbored about being different felt more like armor than burdens, suddenly repurposed into something empowering. “You know,” he began, slowly, almost hesitantly, “I had this strange dream for years before the accident.”

“What do you mean?” Marco asked, intrigued.

“I always dreamed of becoming an amputee,” Sean said, a mixture of relief and anxiety bubbling within him. “I had this fantasy that I could shed my physical limitations. When the accident happened, it was terrifying, yes, but also… strangely fulfilling. I felt, for the first time, free.”

Marco’s eyes widened slightly, absorbing Sean’s words. “You wished for this?”

“I know it sounds insane, but I wanted to leap into my own version of life, and I did. I’ve spent so many years learning and growing into who I am now. But honestly,” he whispered, locking eyes with Marco, “I’ve never really explored how that felt regarding romance. Society sees me, and they think of what’s missing. I feared I would never find someone who would appreciate me as I am. And here’s you… who likes me because of me being a triple amputee.”

Marco reached across the table to grab Sean’s foot, a gentle touch of connection that felt electric. “See, you’re not just anyone, Sean. You’ve transformed what was taken from you into something that inspires. That speaks volumes about your character—for me, that transcendence is irresistible.”

The moment felt sacred, suspended in time as Sean absorbed Marco’s words. He had expected pity, maybe admiration, but not attraction. Not adoration. His heart began to race, hope softening the edges of past fears.

“So… you really like me?” Sean asked, wanting to hear it again.

“More than just like,” Marco replied, his voice steady and sincere. “I find myself curious about you—about your journey, your thoughts, what lies behind those mesmerizing eyes of yours. I want to explore it all.”

A warmth spread through Sean’s core at Marco’s confession. “And I, too, find you captivating. You embody a passion for life that I crave.”

Suddenly, the world around them—the clatter of dishes, the muted conversations, the soft music playing in the background—felt distant. All he could focus on was Marco’s intense gaze, the way it pulled him in, unraveling the chaos in his mind, one thread at a time.

“What if we… explored this?” Marco suggested softly. “Together. Like getting to know each other beyond these moments. If you’re open to it.”

Sean’s heart pounded at the thought, joyous peril swirling within him. “I’d love that. I’ve been searching for someone who sees the real me, not just the layers. It would mean everything to me.”

Marco grinned, a brilliant burst of warmth lighting up his features. “Then let’s do that. Take it one splash at a time.”

And at that moment, amidst the clinking of silverware and the laughter of nearby students, Sean felt a connection begin to blossom—a bond of understanding, acceptance, and burgeoning love that felt as refreshing as the water that had defined so much of his experience. He smiled, heart full, as they leaned into the future, ready to face whatever waves life would bring.

The chatter of laughter and the sounds of footsteps echoed down the hall as Sean wheeled himself into his dorm, the excitement of the evening causing a buzz of adrenaline throughout his body. He glanced at the clock on the wall—Marco would be arriving shortly for their first official sleepover. After leaving the diner, Marco agreed to have their first sleepover, he just had to grab some things from his own dorm room, so they parted ways for a shot while.

“You’ve got this, Sean,” he whispered to himself, adjusting the wireless speaker playing soft music in the background. Sean’s room was simple, adorned with splashes of color from posters and photos, reflecting his vibrant personality.

As the door swung open, Marco stepped in, a warm breeze accompanying him. “Hey!” he exclaimed, his grin lighting up the space as he took in the cozy room filled with Sean’s personality.

“Welcome to my kingdom! Come on in.” Sean gestured with his foot, maneuvering his electric wheelchair to make room by his single bed. “Make yourself comfortable.”

“Nice place you’ve got here,” Marco said, looking around. “It really feels like you.”

“Thanks! I try to make it feel homey,” Sean replied, his heart fluttering with a mix of nerves and anticipation. “You okay with me just wearing basketball shorts and going shirtless? It’s like a sauna in here.” Sean noticed the surprise flit across Marco’s face but didn’t let it deter him to take off his T-Shirt revealing his armless naked torso.

“Definitely a good call!” Marco chuckled, shaking his head. “I might need to get some shorts too.”

As they settled in, they shared stories and laughs, warmth enveloping them like the summer air. “You know, I’ve been practicing my foot skills,” Sean said, a playful smirk on his face. “Wanna see?”

“Of course! Show me what you’ve got!” Marco’s eyes gleamed with intrigue.

“Alright, check this out.” He maneuvered himself to the edge of his bed, then hopped onto his strong right leg with perfect balance. He sat down on his swivel chair before his desk and with deft precision, he picked up a water bottle with his toes, twisting it playfully before tossing it back onto the bed.

“Whoa!” Marco’s mouth dropped open, a grin stretching across his face. “That’s impressive!”

“Years of practice.” Sean laughed, hopping back to the floor. “It’s all about strengthening your… uh, single leg.” His heart raced at the thought of showing off his unique talents. “Want to see some more?”

“Absolutely! You’re like an acrobat.” Marco remained transfixed as Sean showcased his skills—picking up various items scattered around the room, flipping through a magazine, each movement fluid and captivating.

Once he finished, Sean sank back onto the bed, breathing heavily but exhilarated. “So, what do you think?”

“You’re amazing!” Marco said, his genuine admiration shining through. “I can’t even imagine how much dedication that takes. You’ve turned what people see as a limitation into your own superpower.”

“Thanks, Marco. That means a lot. You know, since we’re being honest…” Sean hesitated, searching Marco’s gaze. “I’ve always felt a bit like a performer, showing off my body. But now, it feels different with you here.”

“Different how?” Marco leaned closer, intrigued.

“Like I want you to see all of me—not just the skills. My scars and everything that makes me who I am.” Sean’s words flowed out, his heart pounding. “It’s exhilarating to know you appreciate all of this… the way I am.”

Marco looked thoughtful for a moment before nodding slowly. “I do appreciate all of you, Sean. I’m still processing how beautiful you are.” He met Sean’s eyes, sincerity flooding his own. “May I… may I touch the scars?”

Sean’s breath hitched, an unexpected thrill coursing through him. “You want to explore them?” He felt both exposed and empowered, anticipation bubbling within.

“Yes, if that’s okay with you. I just want to understand you more, if you’re comfortable.” Marco offered, his tone gentle and respectful.

“Of course!” Sean smiled, feeling a rush of excitement as he bravely nodded. “Go for it. I promise I won’t bite!”

Carefully, Marco moved closer, and Sean felt the soft touch of his fingers as they grazed the scars on his upper arms, the faint lines that told the story of his past. A shiver ran through him, blending vulnerability with exhilaration. “Wow,” Marco breathed, his eyes wide. “These are so beautiful.”

“Beautiful?” Sean whispered, astonished. “I’ve never heard anyone describe my amputation scars that way.”

“I mean it. They represent so much. Each one tells a story of strength. It’s impressive and so intimate,” Marco murmured, still tracing the contours gently.

Heat rushed through Sean’s body at the tenderness of Marco’s touch. It felt foreign yet comforting, each brush igniting a fire he hadn’t known he craved. “You really see me, don’t you?”

“I do, and I want to see more,” Marco confessed, his fingertips lightly exploring the spaces where Sean’s limbs once were. “It’s like discovering a new world, and I’m captivated.”

Sean smiled, a warmth spreading through him like sunlight. “I can show you more. There’s something special I love about being vulnerable with someone who appreciates all parts of me.”

With newfound courage, Sean leaned back against the bed, allowing Marco to explore further. He was surprised how calming it felt. “It’s thrilling to have someone who wants to understand my journey,” he admitted softly.

As Marco carefully massaged the flesh near his empty shoulders, Sean’s pulse quickened. “You’re really good at this,” he remarked, the intimacy of the moment wrapping them both in an unspoken connection.

“Just trying to appreciate you fully,” Marco replied, his voice low, filled with sincerity. “Your strength shines even more when I see the scars up close, like you’ve embraced every bit of your journey.”

“Thank you,” Sean breathed, feeling the weight of past insecurities lift, replaced by something fragile yet powerful blossoming in his chest. “You don’t know how incredible this feels.”

“I think I’m starting to,” Marco said, smiling warmly. He looked up into Sean’s eyes, their closeness reflecting a deepening bond. “And I want to explore every wave of this.”

As the evening cooled, they sat in the sacred space they’d created, Sean’s heart full, relieved, and hopeful. For the first time, he felt safe enough to lean into both the joy and the vulnerabilities of their connection. He realized that sharing his scars wasn’t a vulnerability at all; it was a celebration of his existence.

“Let’s keep exploring, Marco,” Sean finally said, a wide, genuine smile stretching across his face. “Together.”

And as they shared quiet moments surrounded by the glow of the evening, Sean felt a deep connection forming—not just an attraction, but a profound understanding that promised new beginnings.

As the soft rays of sunlight crept into the room, Sean blinked awake, feeling a gentle weight beside him. He turned his head slowly and smiled as he saw Marco tucked beside him, a peaceful look on his face. The events of the previous night swirled around in his mind—laughs, stories, and the tender exploration of scars that reminded him of both loss and strength.

Sean shifted slightly in bed, adjusting himself so he could face Marco fully. To Sean's delight, Marco stirred, opening his eyes and flashing that beautiful smile that had captivated him from the start. “Morning, sleepyhead,” Marco said, his voice still husky with sleep.

“Good morning!” Sean replied, excitement bubbling beneath the surface. “Did you sleep well?”

“Surprisingly great. I think it’s your magical aura,” Marco grinned, his emerald eyes sparkling. He leaned in closer, resting his head on Sean’s side, making Sean's heart race.

“Magical aura, huh?” Sean chuckled, feeling a sense of warmth enveloping him. With a playful grin, he wrapped his right foot—strong and flexible—around Marco’s waist, gently pulling him in. “Let’s cuddle a bit more.”

Marco melted into the embrace, the comfort in Sean’s touch sending shivers of delight through him. “I could get used to this.”

Sean took a deep breath, trying to savor the moment where their worlds collided, two souls intertwining in a way that felt both extraordinary and surreal. He reveled in the intimacy of their connection—his amputated body, once a source of hidden insecurities, now felt like a bridge between them.

“Hey,” Marco said softly, his fingers lightly grazing the visible scars on Sean’s shoulders where his arms used to be before the accident. “Can I…?”

“Of course.” The soft smile from Sean urged Marco on, prompting him to touch and explore once more.

As Marco’s fingertips traced the lines of Sean’s scars, Sean closed his eyes, surrendering to the familiar sensations. The warmth of Marco’s touch ignited something deeper within him. “You know,” Sean began quietly, “I used to dread these scars. But with you, it feels different.”

“Different how?” Marco asked, his voice gentle, searching.

“It feels like… they’re a part of something bigger now. Something beautiful,” Sean replied, cracking a shy smile. “It’s as if they tell my story, and you want to listen.”

Marco’s gaze locked onto Sean’s, sincerity pouring from every inch of him. “Your story is beautiful, Sean. You’ve overcome so much. It’s awe-inspiring.”

The air thickened with an unspoken tension as Marco resumed massaging the areas where Sean’s limbs used to be—lightly kneading the flesh around the scars. Each touch ignited Sean’s skin like electric sparks, sending ripples of warmth throughout his body. His heart hammered in his chest, a mixture of vulnerability and exhilaration washing over him.

“You have such strength,” Marco murmured, his hands working with care. “I don’t know if I’ve ever met anyone as incredible as you.”

Sean felt the walls he had built around his heart beginning to crumble. “You know,” he said softly, “you make me feel accepted. It’s like…” He hesitated, choosing his words. “It’s like I’m more than my amputations, you know? With you, I can be just me.”

Marco’s hand paused, resting on Sean’s shoulder as he looked deep into Sean’s eyes. “You’re more than that. You’re a force, Sean.”

In that moment, the world outside faded away, leaving only the two of them cocooned in warmth and intimacy. Marco’s eyes softened, a mix of admiration and desire brewing as he leaned closer.

“Can I?” Marco whispered, his voice barely a breath.

“Please,” Sean encouraged, feeling his heart race as he surrendered to the palpable chemistry that flickered between them.

Marco leaned in, their breaths mingling, and the moment suspended in time as their lips finally connected. The kiss was gentle and exploratory, a sweet melding of longing and discovery. Sean felt a rush of warmth seep through every part of him, igniting something he had longed for deeply yet had not dared to hope for.

As they pulled back, both breathless, Sean’s eyes sparkled with surprise and joy. “Wow,” he breathed, his heart soaring. “That was… incredible.”

Marco chuckled softly, a shy blush coloring his cheeks. “Yeah, it really was. I’ve wanted to do that since the first time we met.”

“Same,” Sean said, feeling bold. “I just never thought I’d actually get the chance… with someone who gets me.”

“You’re completely worth it, Sean,” Marco replied, wrapping his arm around Sean’s armless shoulder, drawing him in closer. “I’m captivated by you—every bit of you, scars included.”

“Good,” Sean smiled, feeling a lightness spread through him. “Because I’m ready to explore this… together.”

With their bodies intertwined, the rest of the world faded as they lay together in the tender afterglow of their kiss. The warmth of the sun streamed in through the window, awakening their dreams and hopes for what lay ahead.

“Let’s take it slow,” Marco suggested, his voice soft, wanting to savor every moment. “I want to cherish every detail.”

“Me too,” Sean agreed, and he felt the thrill of possibility unfurl within him. Together, they were embarking on a journey colored by acceptance, vulnerability, and a blossoming love that felt as fresh as the morning light illuminating their lives.

[digitalsamay]

HOW TO TONE UP FAST: CONQUER YOUR STRUGGLES AND ACHIEVE YOUR FITNESS GOALS/ PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER IN BONI JUNCTION

Introduction:

Are you tired of struggling to tone up and get the body you desire? Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many individuals face challenges when it comes to achieving their fitness goals. In this blog post, we will pinpoint the pain points that people commonly experience while trying to tone up and provide actionable steps to help you overcome them. Get ready to take control of your journey and unleash your inner strength!

Identifying Common Struggles:

a) Lack of Time

One of the most common challenges people face is finding time for exercise amidst their busy schedules. Balancing work, family, and personal commitments can make it difficult to prioritize fitness.

b) Inconsistent Routine:

Another struggle is maintaining a consistent exercise routine. Starting strong but losing momentum after a few weeks is a familiar scenario. It’s crucial to address this hurdle to stay on track.

c) Limited Knowledge:

Many individuals lack the necessary knowledge about effective exercises, proper form, and nutrition. This knowledge gap can hinder progress and make the journey seem overwhelming.

Taking Action:

a) Schedule and Prioritize:

Start by setting aside specific time slots for your workouts. Treat exercise as an essential appointment with yourself and stick to it. By prioritizing your health and fitness, you’ll be more likely to follow through

b) Find Accountability:

Seek a workout buddy, join a fitness class, or hire a personal trainer. Accountability partners can help you stay motivated, provide support, and push you to reach your goals.

c) Plan Ahead:

Develop a well-rounded exercise plan that includes a combination of cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. This variety will prevent boredom and keep your body challenged. Consider consulting a fitness professional to design a program tailored to your needs.

d) Optimize Nutrition:

Alongside exercise, focus on maintaining a balanced diet. Fuel your body with nutritious foods, including lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Stay hydrated, and avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, and drinks.

e) Track Progress:

Keep a record of your workouts, measurements, and achievements. Seeing your progress in black and white can be incredibly motivating and help you stay committed to your fitness goals.

Conclusion:

Toning up may seem challenging, but with the right mindset and approach, you can conquer your struggles and achieve the body you desire. Remember, consistency, planning, and a positive mindset are key. By implementing the actionable steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to toning up fast. Take action today, and let your journey towards a stronger, fitter you begin!

[anotherwvba]

Challenge Accepted pt. 13

The bell rang. Referee Daisy Coroa called the fighters to action, “Box!” The second round was underway and Reina confidently took the center of the ring, her gloves leading the way as she started working her jab. Some landed flush on Skye's face, while others were deflected by her guard.

Skye, however, had a different plan. She started to change her rhythm and footwork. One moment she was bouncing on her toes, the next she was sliding side to side. She would take quick, light steps, then suddenly slow, only to speed up again. It was as if the ring were her dance floor and Reina an unwilling partner that didn’t know the steps.

Esta niña no sabe con quién se está metiendo, Reina thought, her irritation growing. Her eyes narrowed and she sneered, “You think this is a dance recital, chica?”

“Nah, queenie, it’s a dance class,” Skye quipped, her eyes shining as she fired a couple of quick jabs that caught Reina off guard. Her gloves connected with Reina's face, snapping her head back slightly, as the crowd roared approval, fueling the rookie’s confidence. Get mad, Reina. Come on. Give me daylight, just a sliver.

Reina's eyes flared. She's trying to make a fool of me. Anger clouding her judgment, she lunged forward, throwing a jab followed by an uppercut, but Skye's shifting rhythm and footwork made her elusive. Skye slipped the jab and narrowly avoided the uppercut, making Reina's gloves slice through the air.

Daylight! Skye’s right glove slammed into Reina's temple while she was off balance. Reina’s eyes glazed, she froze still for a moment, and Skye wasted no time. The rookie unleashed a flurry of red leather, targeting both Reina's head and body. A jab and hook to the head, an uppercut and hook to the body, and finally a left hook on the chin.

Reina shook her head, trying to clear the fog. No puede ser, she thought, enraged. She swung a wild right hook, putting all her weight behind it. Skye saw it coming and sent her right hand straight into Reina’s nose. Reina’s eyes watered, her knees buckled.

Skye’s eyes lit up as she felt electricity in her hands, Chicago stars sparkling bright red around her gloves. She popped a couple of quick jabs to Reina’s nose, keeping her vision blurry, making sure the luchadora was stunned. Her eyes locked onto Reina’s, “Ready for the Whirlwind?”

With a dancer’s grace and gymnast’s strength, Skye coiled her body and drew her right hand back. The stars grew brighter as she unleashed a right hook to Reina’s jaw. As Reina’s head snapped to the side, Skye let the follow through carry her into a graceful pirouette and delivered a spinning back-fist with her left, then finished her spin with a devastating right hook, Chi-town stars flashing brighter with each impact and before blinking out.

The momentum and power of Skye’s Windy City Whirlwind sent Reina staggering into the ropes, her body limp and swaying. Only the ropes kept her off the canvas.

“Now, Skye!” Vanessa yelled from her corner, sensing the end was near, “Put her away!”

Skye rushed toward Reina, her eyes narrowed and gloves clinched, “Here’s beatdown from Chi-town!” Skye unleashed a flurry of blows to her foe. Jabs, hooks, and a hard uppercut all rocked Reina, snapping her head in every direction.

Reina leaned into the ropes, her vision blurry, but clearing. No, this isn’t how this ends. This niña doesn’t get to finish me. With an audible snarl, Reina grabbed Skye and pulled her close in a clinch.

“No freebies this time, your highness,” Skye trapped Reina's arms, ready and preventing any cheap shots.

Referee Coroa stepped in to break the clinch. "Break it up, ladies! Break!"

As they separated, Reina clipped Skye’s chin with a swift left hook. "Oops," she smirked.

"Watch it, Adora! Break clean when I say break," the referee admonished before shouting, "Now box!"

From her corner, Skye heard her coach, "Skye, stay cool! Keep the pressure on!" Skye nodded, frustration mounted but her cool intact.

Alright, let's get her back to those ropes. She maneuvered around Reina and unloaded another flurry. Reina was able to catch most of the punches on her gloves, but a few landed clean and the force pushed her back to the strands.

Reina used the tension of the ropes to spring forward and clinch Skye again, this time pulling Skye's back to the referee. "Not so clever, chica," she breathed, shooting a pair of hard elbows into Skye's ribs.

"Ref! Did you see that?" Vanessa shouted, but the referee was on the other side and didn't catch the foul. “Those were elbows! Plural!”

Skye winced, feeling the sharp pain in her ribs. That hurt, you bit—

With a shove, Reina pushed Skye back to the center of the ring and began to circle her. "Told you, novata, you’re out of your league," Reina sneered.

Skye took a deep breath, ignoring the ache in her ribs. "Nah, girl. I’m right where I belong."

The two circled, sweat dripping from their brows, chests heaving with each breath. They had two opponents now, each other and fatigue.

She's still moving well, but I can see my body shots are taking their toll, Reina thought, her eyes narrowing as she watched Skye's feet dance across the canvas.

Skye started jabbing, her gloves snapping out like a whip. She was trying to keep her distance, to recover and find her rhythm again. Just gotta keep my distance. Use the jab, Skye, and breathe.

Reina deflected the jabs with her gloves, her eyes never leaving Skye's. Slowly but surely, she began cutting off the ring, herding Skye toward the corner.

You’re slowing down, querida, Reina thought. With a burst of speed, Reina threw a jab followed by a heavy right hook and a left uppercut. Skye bobbed and weaved, her body bending almost impossibly as she avoided each punch. But despite her evasive maneuvers, she was losing ground.

With a smirk, Reina shoved Skye hard into the corner. "This is where you belong, chica!"

Even with limited space, Skye was nimble. She ducked a hook and swayed to the side of an uppercut. A classic one-two caught her cheek, but she leaned into a hook meant for ribs and took it on her arm.

Wait for it, wait for it, Skye thought, her eyes scanning Reina's movements for an opening. She saw it—a slight drop in Reina's right hand. Now! Skye slipped a straight right and was quick to launch an uppercut straight at Reina’s chin.

Reina was quicker. She faded back from the uppercut and leaned all her weight into a straight left. “Gotcha now, chica.” A malicious smile tugged at Reina’s lips when she felt a satisfying crunch as her glove met Skye’s face.

Oh hell. Not good. Skye’s eyes watered, blurry green leather filling her vision.

Blood trickled from Skye’s nose and Reina’s smile grew wider. Just a little more, niñita. A pair of hooks took Skye’s breath, then an uppercut rocked her jaw and a straight right turned the trickle to a bloody stream.

As the rookie’s knees threatened to buckle, a crimson crown started glowing around the knuckles of Reina’s gloves. Almost there, the lights are fading. Her eyes danced with sadistic glee as three more blows, hooks batting Skye’s head to one side then the other, all struck home.

“Focus, Skye! Hands up! Come on!” Vanessa yelled at her girl, trying to will her on. “Come on.”

With a cruel sneer, Reina grabbed Skye by the shoulders and whipped her around to the center of the ring. "Look at me when I finish you!" Reina screamed, then, without warning, she headbutted Skye.

Skye's head snapped back, her eyes crossing instantly. Wha… I can't... where...

“Dammit, Adora!” Referee Daisy Coroa stepped in. "Keep it clean!"

Reina ignored the warning, her eyes locked onto Skye's glazed gaze. "Adiós, niña." With a kiss to her glowing right glove, she sprinted to the ropes, springboarded off the third one, and flew back toward Skye like a guided missile, her fist cocked back.

Skye barely had time to register what was happening before Reina's fist connected squarely with her jaw. The force of the punch sent her staggering back, and she fell to the canvas, eyes closed, out cold before she even hit the mat.

Reina stood over her fallen opponent, a triumphant smile on her face. "Count her out, ref. She's done."

“Neutral corner, Adora!” Daisy Coroa was seething, but knelt beside Skye and started the count. "One! Two! Three!"

Reina strutted to the neutral corner, climbing onto the second rope and raising her arms in victory. "¡Soy la Reina! ¡La única Reina!" she shouted to the crowd, basking in their jeers and boos.

"Four! Five! Six!"

Reina's eyes flicked back to Skye, who lay motionless on the canvas, and she whispered to herself, “Niña dura, but you never had a chance.”

"Seven! Eight! Nine!"

"Looks like your alumna couldn't handle me," Reina sneered, directing her taunt toward Skye's corner where Vanessa stood, her face a mask of concern and barely contained fury.

"Ten! That’s it! It’s over!"

Skye Ivy lay motionless on the canvas, her eyes closed, her face a portrait of vulnerability as the referee, Daisy Coroa, waved her arms, signaling the end of the match. "Doc, get in here,” Daisy called out, concern in her voice.

Reina leapt off the ropes, her arms raised in triumph. "¡Soy la reina! ¡Nadie puede vencerme! ¡Nadie!" She paraded around the ring, soaking in a handful of cheers and an overwhelming multitude of jeers.

Doctor Wakada quickly rolled into the ring, his medical bag in hand. Skye’s coach Vanessa rushed in, too, her face etched with worry and anger. 

From their ringside seats, Niki, Cutie, Mika, and Joe all exchanged worried glances. Mika's hands were clenched, her knuckles white. "Diyos ko, she has to be okay," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Oui, she is a fighter. She will be alright," Glass Joe reassured her, although his own face was clouded with concern.

Reina, impatient for her moment of glory, turned to the referee. "What are you waiting for? Raise my hand, arbitra."

Daisy, however, stayed by Skye's side, her attention focused on the young fighter and the medical team attending to her.

Infuriated, Reina shoved the referee aside. "I said, raise my hand! Now!"

That was the last straw for Vanessa. She sprang to her feet, her eyes blazing. She got right into Reina's face. "One more move and you'll have me to deal with."

“I’m the boxeadora that just knocked out your girl and her dreams,” Reina smiled, “and you’re retired.”

Vanessa’s eyes narrowed dangerously, “I can change that real quick… chica.”

Daisy quickly stepped between them, her eyes stern. "Enough. You’re professionals. Act like it."

Reina smirked, her eyes locking onto Vanessa's. "Next time, teach your alumna how to take a punch and maybe she won’t fall asleep during a match."

“Not the time or the place, Coach,” Daisy whispered, turning to face Vanessa. “Your girl needs you.”

Vanessa turned her attention back to Skye, who was now being carefully examined by Doctor Wakada.

Finally, Daisy walked over to Reina, her face stern but professional. "Winner," she said, raising Reina's hand high and pointing to Reina to make it official.

The ring announcer took the microphone, his voice filling the arena. "Ladies and gentlemen, the winner by knockout in 2 minutes and 19 seconds of the second round, ‘La Realeza del Anillo’ Reina Adora!"

The crowd erupted, a cacophony of cheers and boos filling the arena. Reina raised her arms, soaking in the adulation and disdain with equal relish. She had won, and that was all that mattered.

Doctor Wakada knelt beside Skye, his experienced hands quickly assessing her condition. "Vanessa, her vitals are stable. She's unconscious and has a broken nose, but she's going to be okay. We’ll check her for a concussion in the infirmary." He reached into his medical bag and pulled out a small bottle of smelling salts.

“Thank God,” Vanessa sighed in relief.

Wakada waved the smelling salts under Skye's nose. Her eyes fluttered open, and she groaned. "Ugh, what hit me?"

At that moment, Gabby Jay, WVBA’s Head of Talent Relations, stepped into the ring, joining the referee Daisy Coroa. "Reina, I would like you to proceed to the locker room immediately."

Reina's eyes widened in disbelief. "¿Qué? You want me to leave? This is my ring. Just call a stretcher for that." She gestured disdainfully toward Skye.

Gabby Jay's eyes narrowed, and his voice dropped to a whisper that somehow carried more weight than a shout. "Non, Reina. This isn’t your ring and I said leave. Now."

Reina smirked but said nothing, exiting the ring and making her way to the locker room.

Wakada was now holding a cloth to Skye's nose, staunching the flow of blood. Skye was sitting up, still trying to piece together what had happened. "Coach, what went down? Last thing I remember, I was about to dodge a punch."

Vanessa sighed, her eyes filled with a mix of relief and concern. "No, sweetheart, you got hit by a headbutt and La Corona Crush. Knocked out cold. But you're going to be okay."

Gabby Jay turned his attention back to Skye. "Can you stand, young lady?" 

Skye looked up to Gabby, “I think so, sir.” Wakada nodded, and Vanessa helped him get Skye to her feet as Gabby signaled for ring announcer Jazzy Jamboree to join them in the ring.

"Mesdames et Messieurs,” Gabby began, his voice tinged with emotion. "I want to take a moment to talk about this young woman standing beside me. Skye Ivy took this fight on just a week's notice after Reina's original opponent was injured. She's not even a signed fighter; she's a trainee. And yet, she showed us all something tonight. She showed us heart, determination, and a level of skill that belies her experience."

The crowd's cheers intensified, filling the arena with a deafening roar. Skye looked at Vanessa, her eyes filling with tears. "I can't handle this right now, Coach."

Vanessa squeezed her shoulder. "You may have lost the fight, but you earned respect. Take your roses, Skye."

"But this fight has shown me one thing," Gabby continued. He reached into his sports coat and pulled out a folded bundle of papers. "Skye Ivy, you're no trainee. This is a WVBA Boxer Contract, and it has your name on it. All it needs is your signature."

The crowd's reaction was electric, a tidal wave of cheers and applause that seemed to shake the foundations of the arena. Skye looked at Vanessa, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Is this for real?"

Vanessa's eyes were shining with pride. "It's as real as it gets, kid."

Gabby Jay produced a pen and handed it to Skye. "Would you like to make it official, jeune femme?"

Skye turned to Vanessa. "Coach, can you get these gloves off me? I've got a contract to sign."

With trembling hands, Vanessa quickly unlaced Skye's gloves and pulled them off. Gabby handed Skye the contract and pen, and Vanessa offered her back for Skye to bear down on. With tears of joy streaming down her face, Skye signed her name on the dotted line.

Gabby Jay took the signed contract and beamed at Skye. "Skye Ivy, welcome to the WVBA. You've earned it."

With a nod from Gabby, security let Mika, Joe, Niki, and Cutie through the guardrail and they rushed into the ring, joining Vanessa in enveloping Skye in a group hug. 

Mika’s voice was choked with emotion. "Skye, nagawa mo! I'm so proud of you!"

Glass Joe added, his French accent thickening with emotion. "Ah, Skye, you have shown le cœur d’un championne tonight!"

Vanessa looked at her young protégé, her eyes filled with a mother's pride. "Skye, you've got a bright future ahead of you. And this is just the beginning."

Skye looked around at her friends, her coach, and the cheering crowd, and for the first time, she felt like she truly belonged. "Thanks, guys. I couldn't have done it without you.” With her eyes still wet with tears, Skye looked to her coach, “Coach, I know you’ve got a business back home, but… I was just…”

Vanessa took Skye’s hand and squeezed, “Where else would I be? Besides, it’s a small league and, at some point, there’s gonna be a rematch.”

As the cheers reverberated throughout the Omni, Skye smiled through the bruises and the blood, her eyes twinkling like she could go another round, “Damn right!”

[pacifymebby]

+ I like how the majority of the fandom seem to have completely forgotten the undisclosed health issue that Sam has, that put him on benefits and the at-risk list for COVID (I don't know what it is, but even if I knew where to look I wouldn't, until he talks about it himself). I don't know, but it's very likely that it factors in to his bruising vocal cords so easily, even with all the careful planning they do, AND him being on steroids for his voice, too, apparently? Sure, it's just him being irresponsible and in need of a different vocal coach 🙄

I don't think all those fans realise the pressure that he's under, both externally and internally. The label can't be very happy with their golden goose "misbehaving", he's got all this momentum going! Why does he have to go and be human instead of seizing it! I also think he is very hard on himself, himself. He's got ambition sure, but I think he takes on way too much responsibility - for his boys, for his family, for the whole freaking NEWCASTLE!.. That can't be healthy. And his body knows it. He should listen to it more. What a relief that he has a supportive and understanding fanbase that has his back and will never treat him like a Sims character, huh?..

Ahhhh anon I love you for this, like it's brutal but you're talking absolute truth here.

Like we shouldn't ask and don't have the right to question the health issue it's none of our business and it's his own private thing. Everyone has the right to privacy and legally within a normal job you have the right to not have your health issues told to everyone so we should uphold those same values in the fanbase.

I think that's it, Sam talks about mental health struggles, he sings about mental health struggles, we know he gets really anxious, we know he puts too much pressure on himself and none of that's conducive to good health for anyone but for someone who has a health condition too like, it does have an impact and blaming the individual for being "irresponsible" is just so so shitty.

Like I just really feel for him because he obviously has so so much to deal with, and he's obviously the kind of person who feels stuff quite intensely and takes a lot of things to heart and he must feel awful about having to rest and cancel shows, he probably gets so angry with himself (especially because of that general thing most working class British men have of feeling like they have to provide for everyone and be the strong healthy one) (like most men of a certain class will never admit they're sick idk) and I think it sucks when the people who are supposed to support you are getting shitty with you and accusing you of not caring about the fans and stuff, or of letting people down and fucking people over. It's just so, idk you're talking about a real person with real feelings that's already down. Stop kickin the lad when he's down.

But yeah thank you for sending this cause you've articulated it wonderfully haha.

[thommi-tomate]

Holger Badstuber column

Hello football friends !

"Oh come on, we're playing football!". - I have known Thomas Müller for too long and any on-field "contact" with opponents too well not to have been able to understand him when he uttered this phrase in frustration in Friday's TV interview.

I definitely wouldn't have given that penalty in the 94th minute after the duel between Alphonso Davies and Jonas Hofmann. It was a gift to Leverkusen.

But I also have to say: Bayer Leverkusen really deserved FC Bayern's 2:2, the result was totally fair. Overall, it was an open, lively, entertaining match, with many chances, saves by the goalkeepers, simply a great night for German football.

Leverkusen can shake up Bayern

It was proof that Bayer are capable of upsetting this season's serial champions FCB. Of course, Xabi Alonso's team is currently living off the momentum, the euphoria of the beginning of the season. However, the strong evolution of the team is evident.

Especially in the subtleties of how to control a game, i.e. through changes of pace, nerves of steel, discipline and class. Granit Xhaka is a major factor in the center, with the exceptional Florian Wirtz, the veteran Jonas Hofmann and the creative Victor Boniface swirling in front of him. Alejandro Grimaldo's free kick was world class, Exequiel Palacios' coolness on the penalty against a whistle was remarkable.

I still know Xabi Alonso as a teammate at FC Bayern, the qualities he had as a player he now transmits to his team. He is meticulous, very approachable, emotional. He has a good connection with his players and brings a natural authority through his resume and his way of being. Xabi Alonso is on the road to success and will not be leaving it any time soon with Leverkusen.

Leverkusen is fresh, looks homogeneous and sticks to their game idea in the hot phases. It's fun to watch this team. I also have respect for the way Leverkusen managed to strengthen the squad in the summer according to the coach's ideas.

FC Bayern lacks a true right-back.

That is also the big difference with FC Bayern. I have to be honest and say that the right-back position is still very much a work in progress. Laimer can play in it, but he has the nature of a midfielder. There is no real right back in the squad. It is a serious problem.

Especially against teams that combine as brilliantly through the middle as Leverkusen, it is equally obvious that a static six is still urgently needed. In my previous column, I already pointed out the importance of a player who provides the balance between defense and attack.

Against Leipzig in the Supercup and now against Leverkusen, there were a total of five goals conceded; that's not really good defending. The squad is not only too thin in quantity, but also in quality. An improvement in winter is absolutely necessary.

FC Bayern are not in a position to put their stamp on a good opponent, to dominate them. I do not deny anyone's will to win, but the team is not rounded, the self-confidence, the defensive solidity and, above all, the connection on the pitch are not there. At least we can rely on the goalscorer Harry Kane.

In short, FCB still has a lot of work to do and a lot of clarification to do within the team to get back to its true strength. The Champions League kicks off on Wednesday against Manchester United.

I am curious.

Your Holger Badstuber

Source

[topscoree]

How Can You Retain the Vast NEET Syllabus Without Overloading Your Brain?

Preparing for NEET can feel like an uphill battle, especially with the sheer volume of material to cover. With topics ranging from biology and chemistry to physics, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, with the right strategies, you can efficiently retain the syllabus without exhausting yourself. Here’s how:

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1. Understand Before You Memorize

Blind memorization won’t stick for long. Instead, focus on understanding the concepts behind every topic. For example:

Biology: Visualize processes like photosynthesis or the circulatory system. Use diagrams and flowcharts to make them memorable.

Physics: Break down formulas to understand their derivations and applications.

Chemistry: Link reactions to real-life scenarios to enhance retention.

When you understand the "why" and "how," remembering becomes much easier.

2. Organize Your Study Schedule

Cramming everything in one go leads to burnout and poor retention. Instead:

Break the syllabus into manageable chunks.

Assign specific days for each subject or topic.

Focus on one difficult and one relatively easy topic daily to maintain momentum.

A well-structured plan ensures consistent progress without overloading your brain.

3. Use Active Recall Techniques

Active recall is one of the most effective methods for long-term retention. Instead of passively reading, test yourself:

Use flashcards for definitions and formulas.

Answer questions after finishing a chapter.

Practice quizzes regularly to strengthen your memory.

The more you challenge your brain, the stronger your retention.

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4. Incorporate Spaced Repetition

Revisiting topics at intervals prevents forgetting. Spaced repetition ensures information stays fresh in your memory.

Revise important concepts the day you study them.

Review them again after 2-3 days, a week, and then a month. This cyclical approach helps embed knowledge deeply.

5. Simplify With Mnemonics and Tricks

Mnemonics, acronyms, and visual aids can simplify complex concepts:

For biology, create catchy phrases to remember sequences, such as the taxonomy hierarchy: “Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.”

In chemistry, use color-coded notes to identify reaction types.

Such tricks make information retrieval faster during exams.

6. Practice, Practice, Practice

The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel. Solve:

Previous years’ NEET papers.

Topic-wise MCQs to build depth in every subject.

Full-length mock tests to simulate exam conditions.

Regular practice highlights weak areas and strengthens your knowledge base.

7. Don’t Ignore Short Breaks

Studying for hours without breaks leads to fatigue and hampers productivity. Apply the Pomodoro Technique:

Focus on studying for 25 minutes, followed by a short 5-minute break.

After completing four such cycles, enjoy a longer break of 15 minutes to recharge. Short breaks refresh your brain, making learning more effective.

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8. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity

Studying 8 hours a day without focus is less effective than 4 hours of concentrated study. Eliminate distractions:

Study in a quiet, well-lit environment.

Keep your phone away or use productivity apps to block distractions.

When your focus improves, retention becomes effortless.

9. Use Visual Aids and Technology

Make use of technology for better retention:

Watch animated videos on YouTube to understand tough concepts visually.

Use apps like Anki for spaced repetition or MindMeister for creating mind maps.

Visual aids provide clarity and enhance memory.

10. Stay Healthy for a Healthy Mind

A well-nourished brain retains information better. Follow these tips:

Sleep: Get at least 7-8 hours of sleep daily to consolidate what you’ve studied.

Diet: Eat brain-friendly foods like nuts, fruits, and leafy greens.

Exercise: Include short workouts or yoga sessions to improve concentration and reduce stress.

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Conclusion: Master the Syllabus With Ease

The NEET syllabus might seem daunting, but a strategic approach can make it manageable. Focus on understanding concepts, practicing regularly, and revising systematically. Pair these with healthy habits, and you’ll find yourself retaining vast amounts of information effortlessly.

By balancing hard work with smart techniques, you’ll not only retain the syllabus but also boost your confidence and performance on exam day.