The sky was like a freshly washed canvas, painted in vibrant orange-red hues. The horizon, where the sky kissed the water, was filled with fiery clouds, rolling with a color as intense as dripping blood. The colors spread gradually across the sky, looking like a wild, grand painting. Nature's brushstrokes effortlessly created a breathtaking scene, making any fancy words seem dull in comparison.
August in San Francisco was always stunningly beautiful.
Another day of tryouts wrapped up, and for Luke, it felt like just another day. Whether it was team tryouts or personal training, the content might differ, but the rhythm stayed the same. It had become a part of his life, something he was used to.
In fact, there were only three days left until the preseason opener of the 2011 season. The buzz and excitement of the new season were already in the air. ESPN had started rolling out a series of programs to welcome the preseason.
On the neighboring training field, there was still laughter and chatter, but the tense atmosphere was spreading. There was excitement and anticipation, but also fear and nervousness, with the latter being more common. The San Francisco 49ers hadn't made the playoffs for eight straight years, and no one wanted to extend that streak.
But for Luke and the other three tryout quarterbacks, that didn't matter. They weren't part of the team yet and were fighting with everything they had for a job. Not for victory, not for the game, not for honor, but for a job.
After training, Luke grabbed the towel hanging at his waist and wiped his sweat, looking like he had just been pulled out of the water. Scott, standing not far away, shouted, "Today's training was brutal. How did you manage that balance drill? When I stood on it, my calves started shaking uncontrollably. It was insane."
The so-called balance training required a balance board, which had a flat surface on top and a rubber ball underneath, integrated as one. Standing on it and maintaining balance was extremely tough. For athletes, it wasn't just about standing; they also needed to squat slightly, making the shift in center of gravity and muscle control even harder.
Plus, they needed a football because quarterbacks had to complete passes. First, they did static pinpoint passes, then moved on to dynamic route passes with receivers. During the passing process, quarterbacks tried to use their arms and upper body strength to complete the pass. But as soon as they used their lower body, the balance would start to wobble like crazy, messing up their accuracy big time.
This training wasn't really about balance. It was more about building core strength and working those deep muscles. It also helped fine-tune a quarterback's passing mechanics, making sure they stayed stable while on the move. And lastly, it trained them to pass under pressure, like during interference, collisions, and tackles, where they might lose their balance.
What looked like simple, even goofy training was actually a full-on test for quarterbacks.
One wrong move, and you'd fall flat on your back; another wrong move, and you might hurt yourself. It was embarrassing and awkward, making you look like a clown in a circus, becoming the center of attention for all the wrong reasons.
This was true for young guys like Luke and Scott, and even more so for veterans like Matt and Carson. Times were changing, technology was advancing, and training methods were constantly being updated. Keeping up with the times was no easy task.
All four quarterbacks faced serious challenges, but overall, Luke's performance was the best. "Yoga," Luke said without holding back, as these training methods were no secret. "I've been doing yoga for over six months now. The effects on flexibility, balance, muscle resilience, and core strength are very noticeable."
When the system added yoga to his training regimen, Luke was initially puzzled. But after six months of sticking with it, he was now reaping the benefits. Who would have thought that such a flexible and quiet exercise could complement such a violent and intense sport?
"Yoga?" Scott's eyes widened in surprise. "You mean, like, Indian yoga?"
Before Luke could answer, a voice called out from a distance, "Gather up, tryout players, gather up." Bobby's voice was very familiar by now. Without looking back, Luke nodded at Scott, confirming, "You should give it a try. It might not be for everyone, but it's worth a shot."
Bobby didn't rush them, waiting leisurely in place. After all, today's training was over, and there was no need to hurry. When Matt walked over, the two even chatted and laughed, lightening the atmosphere.
Turning around, Bobby saw that all four quarterbacks had gathered. He patted Matt on the shoulder, looked around, and without any fuss, started talking, "There are only three days left until the new season. The team's preparations are in the final stage, and we don't have much time. So, I'll keep it short."
Here it comes. The decision is here.
"This tryout ends today," Bobby's eyes scanned each of the four quarterbacks. Matt and Carson, both veterans, stayed calm and composed, showing no signs of tension. Luke and Scott, on the other hand, were rookies, and despite trying to stay relaxed, their muscles were visibly tense.
Experience makes a difference. But choosing between experience and youth is always tricky. In competitive sports, victory can explain everything, while failure can destroy it all.
So, Bobby didn't make a big deal out of it. He was just announcing the addition of a third-string quarterback. Jim didn't even come in person; he left it to Bobby, the offensive assistant, to make the announcement. Bobby quickly regained his composure.
"After discussions among the coaching staff, the team has decided to keep..." Bobby's eyes turned to Matt. The two had been friends for nearly ten years, and as a quarterback-receiver duo, they understood each other with just a glance. "Luke. Welcome to the team. As for the other three players, thank you for participating in the tryouts. We wish you all the best in your future careers."
No fireworks, no suspense, not even a dramatic pause—Bobby said it so casually that Luke didn't react immediately.
His first thought was: The San Francisco 49ers chose Matt. It made sense; a veteran with experience and connections was the obvious choice. But then Luke saw Scott extend his right hand for a fist bump and pat his left shoulder, "Congrats, man."
Luke reflexively shook Scott's hand, and they hugged briefly. Scott, with a big smile, said, "You deserve it. But watch out, I might come for your job in the future." Despite his joking tone, there was a hint of disappointment and bitterness.
Carson then walked up, patted Luke's right arm, and simply said, "Good luck, kid." Without further ado, Carson turned and left.
Finally, Matt gave Luke a sincere hug. Without saying much, he followed Carson, the two NFL veterans walking one after the other toward the parking lot. There was no overwhelming sadness or excitement, as if today was just another day of training.
"Well, hope to see you on the field next time," Scott bumped Luke's shoulder again before jogging to catch up with Carson and Matt. "So, how about hitting the bar tonight?"
In just four days, they had become both competitors and comrades. Only those who have been through tryouts and faced the brink of elimination can truly understand the feeling. Rather than a cutthroat rivalry, it was more about mutual encouragement and support.
Suddenly, three were eliminated, and one remained. It seemed like there was no time to prepare for the departure; before joy and happiness could fully set in, a faint sadness lingered on the tongue.
Under the setting sun, the shadows of the three men stretched long and far, swaying as they walked away.
"Luke?" Bobby's voice snapped Luke out of his thoughts. "Let's go. We need to head to the team building now. There's a series of things to complete today, and we're on a tight schedule. Plus, it's after hours, so the lawyer's fees will be double."
"Okay," Luke nodded in a daze and quickly followed Bobby toward the team building.
From a distance, they could see a middle-aged man standing at the entrance of the lobby. He was dressed in the team's coaching uniform, hands behind his back, eyes fixed on Luke, clearly waiting for their arrival.
Before Luke could reach him, the man approached, "Tom Gamble, player personnel manager. If you need anything, and I mean anything, come to me first. I'll handle it." Without waiting for Luke to respond, Tom nodded at Bobby, who then turned and left, completing the handover.
"Time is tight, so I'll keep it brief. We can discuss any questions later," Tom led the way, with Luke following closely. "First, we need to complete your contract. Do you have an agent? If not, I suggest you talk to the union lawyer. He represents the players, meaning he represents your interests. Ask him any questions you have, and once you're sure the contract is in order, you can sign it..."
"Excuse me, Mr. Gamble?" Luke had to interrupt Tom because the information was overwhelming. "I just need to confirm, am I now a member of the San Francisco 49ers? I mean, have I joined the league?"
Tom gave a big smile, "Yes, Luke. And please, call me Tom. Mr. Gamble is my father."