I had always believed that discreton is the better part of valor, as an ounce of discretion is worth a pound of wit. Being cautious is my second nature and I consider every possible outcomes deeply before making any decisions. My friends call me 'the thinker'. However, I have never thought i would doubt myself for anything at all.

I was the captain at my school's basketball team, and i have won many matches throughout my secondary school life. I planned strategies for the team carefully, and made sure no members let the cat of out the bag to allow risks of counter strategies from our opposing teams. Throughout the years, despite several defeated matches, I believe experience is the best teacher. I looked at the bright side of everything and made hay while the sun was up during competitions.

It was cold and wet with a brisk wind sweeping the rain across the land right before out international tournament. I had a bad omen that something would happen because of my twitching eyelids. The next day, confidence engulfed me when my team and i reached the stadium filled with colourful jerseys. But as time flies, my pulse raced as i scanned through the stadium, observing our competitors compete against one another. Little did i realise that my shallow plans were mere fundamentals that most teams would know, and have already come up with a better idea. I felt a shiver run down my spine. Our turn was only fifteen minutes away! I did not want to lose as it would affect my reputation as a captain. I was careless!

Perhaps with all the winning matches that i had have made my ego stronger, neglecting the fact that i was not the best out of the best. I did not want to inform my teammates as i fear it would affect their performance. Panic engulfed me. I was powerless and frantic. I had to come up with plan B fast! My mind was swirling, sweat covered me even before the match had begun.

Luckily, our coach came to me as he saw through my worries with his sharp observations. We came up with another strategy immediately, however, i had my reservations still. I had almost wanted to give up. There was give minutes left, I realised i could not stay like this anymore. I stood up, gathered the team and discussed with them. Although still feeling inferior, we went up to compete wholeheartedly. The game begun as the whistle was blown by the referee. I was still unsure and nervous throughout. Ten minutes passed, the opposing team had scored three. Every supporters had great disappointing expressions.

I knew i could not stay this way any longer. The team needed me. I had to be stable and confident with myself. I took in deep breathes while cheers echoed the stadium. Finally, i turned to the coach. He nodded his head signalling we could do it. Within split seconds, the opponent scored again. Strength came to me, for the school's pride continuous medals, I had to put emotions aside and play on seriously. I did it.

For the next twenty minutes, out team caught up with them. At the end of the game, we scored a ball more. It was a close shave. I had learn not to doubt myself anymore, as it almost robbed me of sweet success.☆ Back to Top