I noticed you first
When I stepped on the court
You broke your toe but
Thought you could try
That was the first time I met you
You with the kind eyes
Never looked long or close enough
To feel the color
I forgot to learn your name
I hoped you'd be at the practice in two days
I didn't play to see boys
I played to get better, stronger, smarter
I didn't see you for awhile
Stopped thinking about your gripping
Smile
Till outdoor practice started and you came
More often
You were a defender
Who stood up and played keeper
Defender boy
You would be a keeper
If I had the nerve and you the interest
You called me by my name
Respect made the game
On the field it was ok when I heard you yell
Half time in Mass
You told me fire
An inspiration I didn't play out
But confidence is what you gave me
That was everything
You got used to me
So did some of the other boys
You talking to me
Made practice so much easier
Thank you
Hope to see you next year
Defender boy