Showing up for that first practice was hard. I was very intimidated by these larger more developed guys, who already had an easy rapport. I sought out the coach who put his arm on my shoulder and assured me it would be great.
"First let's get you started with a team suit"...."but I'm not on this team", and he said, 'this will have you feeling part of the group and not stand out'. We went into his office, opened a file drawer, and pulled out a big handful of classic nylon speedo briefs. There was always something about the feel of nylon that triggered a 'tingle' in me. All the suits were 30's, 32's, 34's and he found one 28", though it sure looked smaller than that. "Here, this one's yours, go put it on". I went to the locker room, slid the suit on, and decided that as it formed to my body with wear, it would do just fine. It was maroon, with white side stripes, keeping with school colors. I made my way out to the pool, and coach introduced me to the team as this 'superstar kid' who was going to be part of the group. Most of the guys shook my hand, one in particular - Ray - shaggy chlorine bleached blonde hair with a deep tan, told me he'd help me fit in.
|