Tuesday routine.

Assemble the uniform and worry about weak ankles. Poor attempts at stretching. Don't be late. Assume some sort of authority and watch the dollars roll in. Casual small talk, while counting the minutes down. Fake confidence and exchange pleasantries. First touch, lungs already bursting. Initial frustration turns into elation when the ball hits the back of the ol' onion bag. Breathing remains a luxury, but carving up defenses is prime motivation. Intense final moments, followed by relief and a strange sense of pride. Handshakes, vivid commentary, brief goodbyes and a final cigarette. Until next week.