January: "My Battle at the Free Throw Line"

I have a strong love for the game of basketball,

But one can only hold their composure for so long.

Before each game I get mixed emotions.

Then I say to myself “ Play with some devotion!”

I mentally prepare myself for 32 minutes of toughness.

While in our pregame warm up,

I physically prepare myself for 32 minutes of roughness.

Although our January schedule has been a majority of lost games,

The only thing that keeps me going on the court is when my father exclaims,

“Drive to the basket, SHOOT!”

So I took on this task with a nervous pursuit.

However, I would end up on the foul line,

And this is when I began to realize.

My shot was off!

My frustration grew when I went to the line,

Because everyone thinks it's my time to shine.

First shot off, followed by another disappointing miss.

In the moment, I must move on and not reminisce.

During practice I was not given time to self improve,

So I decided it would be best for me to find a new groove.

Coach Orsi stayed late with me, and was able to pick out my flaws.

She even laid out the new foul shooting laws.

1. Elbow in,

2. Keeping it straight like a pin.

3. Extend arm up high,

4. Releasing the ball to fly.

5. Remember to flick your wrist at the end.

This will ensure that the ball and net will eventually blend.

Next few games when I went to the foul line

I no longer thought to whine.

Instead, I replayed the rules in my head.

“Elbow in” Coach Orsi said.

By the end of this month these “laws” worked for my advantage,

With an increase in my free throw percentage.