The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat are the constant variety of sports that April Stowe thrives on each day of her life. The rush of adrenaline that she feels when she competes makes her yearn for the next time when she can flaunt her athletic skills. Performing is what she derives benefit from and is one aspect of her life that makes her the person she is; what her peers identify her with. Whether it is on the courts or in the fields when she comes to compete she conveys a spirit of dedication, hard working, and a competitiveness that people admire and hold in highest regards.
             As the early July afternoon brought forth a tepid and sultry heat, April and some of her friends had decided to convene at the city pool to take a cool dip and replenish their systems from the scorching sun. Just as she was about to head out the door the telephone rang with an annoying sound, as she knew her plans could be spoiled by one of her friends backing out on her. She picked up the phone and it was her talented friend Jake Hannon wanting to know if she would play some tennis with her, as he had no one to practice with that day. April had been very dedicated this summer practicing three to four days a week and about two hours each session to try to advance her playing skills. She contemplated the offer and in the end decided that this was a chance she couldn't pass up. She apologized to her friends, but they understood how passionate she was about becoming a distinguished tennis player. That day Jake and she played for two hours in the baking sun, but April knew the sacrifices that it took to be
             The immense gym echoed with the sounds of volleyballs ricocheting back and forth across the shimmering floor. Regional volleyball tryouts were going on and the coach was selecting players to fill positions at the regional tournament. Emotions were excessive because of the implications that were at stake. This was like war between ...