Willy the Scrub is a story about Willy, a skinny boy who wants to play football and be popular but is considered a "scrub" by the other players. He tries out for the football and wrestling teams but struggles. At the end of the wrestling season, Willy has to face off against "Star", the toughest wrestler, but even though he loses, he realizes he is not a scrub in his own mind. The story encourages perseverance and self-confidence despite challenges.