The notice board outside the athletic department was encircled three-deep with athletes, their shadows stretching long across the polished linoleum floor under the hum of fluorescent lights. Whispers rippled through the crowd, sharp with nervous energy. Ryker pushed his way to the front, his gym bag heavy over one shoulder, his jaw set.
At the top of the freshly pinned sheet, the heading read: NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS – OPENING ROUND BRACKET.
Directly under their university’s name sat their first opponent: The Vanguard Academy. Defending national champions. Three-time streak holders. Unbeaten at home for two consecutive seasons.
"You're kidding me," Parker muttered, stepping up beside Ryker and squinting at the paper. He blew out a long breath, adjusting his headband. "The committee reall
