Try-outs for Madison

“I have to make the team,” Madison said. Madison had thought of nothing but try-outs since the poster was displayed in the hall. She was new to the school. She understood that the other girls had an advantage, but what she lacked in experience, she made up for in effort and attitude. Being on the team would help her make new friends and feel like a part of a group.

The coach told her at the first practice to stretch daily, work on motions, and practice her jumps. This would develop flexibility. She wouldn’t be as nervous if she could gain some height on her toe touches. She wanted her coach to know that she would be dedicated and work hard if she was on the team.

Madison didn’t mind-stretching. She actually found herself doing this while watching television, before and after meals, and before bedtime. While looking in a mirror, she would practice motions. The great thing about stretching and motion practice was that the hot temperatures would not be a factor in stopping her. She could do all the necessary moves in the comforts of air conditioning. Madison‘s parents could see her determination by the way she stretched and jumped numerous times a day.

Over the next two weeks, as summer faded into fall, Madison continued attending practices, stretching, and jumping. She was focused on being the best cheerleader at try-outs that she could be. She noticed that she was becoming as flexible as a straw. Her jumps were higher and her motions were nice and stiff.

At last, the try-out day arrived! Madison quickly dressed and in her try-out clothes and set off for the gym. She was smiling and whistling as she made her way to the gym. She had worked hard and practiced every day. Madison thought, “I hope that I do my best and that try-outs are fantastic!”

Why was Madison whistling when she entered the gym?