Two weeks ago we wrapped up our Summer Leagues at Yes I Can Basketball.  During the final game of the Girls 8 – 10 Year old League I witnessed an amazing example of Courage, Confidence, and Composure from one of the young players.

Half way through the game I decided to let all of the players take a quick water break.  At the next stoppage in play I blew the whistle and told them to quickly grab some water and be back on the court in one minute.

As the girls ran off the court one of the teams coaches decided to challenge the referees (both accomplished High School varsity Basketball players) to a shooting contest.  He told them to take a shot from anywhere they wanted near the 3 point line on the left side of the court.

Both of the referees took a shot just inside the 3 point line and missed.  The coach then took a shot just outside the 3 point line and made it.  He then offered to give them a second chance.

Around that time Madison (one of the players) had returned from getting water.  She quickly ran to the middle of court just outside the 3 point line and yelled over to the coach to see if she could try.

The coach threw her the ball and without hesitation she caught it, faced the basket, shot the ball, and MADE IT!!!!

Everyone in the gym immediately started cheering and clapping.

I was not surprised that Madison was able to make a 3 point shot because it was something she had been working on before we started our workouts that day and I had seen her make a couple.  So I knew she had the range.

What surprised me was the fact that she stepped up to compete against individuals who were much older and more experienced at basketball, then took the shot and made it without hesitation or appearing nervous even though everyone in the gym was watching.

It’s rare to see such courage, confidence, and composure when put in a pressure situation, especially in a 10-year-old.  It’s even rarer to see it in someone as humble as young Madison.   After making the shot there was no amount of boasting or celebrating.  A matter of fact the only sign of emotion she showed was a huge smile and  bright eyes which she has shown throughout the season when she’s in the gym playing basketball.