In 6th grade, the author started playing tackle football for the first time and was nervous but enjoyed being able to hit people. In 7th grade, their coach Mr. Sage started a football team and they had a successful first season, going 4-1. The author had a favorite year of football in 7th grade where they worked hard as a team and had fun together, going undefeated that season. However, in 8th grade their coach changed and showed favoritism, making the author consider quitting but deciding to continue for high school. The author's 9th grade season was their best as they started every game and had an average record of 6-3, losing close games.