(winnie's outfit in this part of the chapter)

Winnie couldn't believe it. The football team has got to the playoffs! It was an incredible feeling, knowing that their hard work had paid off and they were now one step closer to their goal of winning the championship. There was a sense of pride and accomplishment among the team, as well as a fierce determination to keep fighting and achieve their dream. The school decorated the team's lockers for games, expect for the upcoming playoffs they kept the lockers decorated a week before. 

They even decorated the locker room, using posters, streamers, and balloons. The energy was electric, with everyone feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation for the big game. The cheerleaders were even more energetic, practicing their cheers and routines, wanting to put on their best performance to support the team. Winnie was feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement, knowing that this was a big moment for the team and for her since she was the quarterback. The pressure was on, but she was determined to do her best and lead the team to victory.

"Hey, guys." Winnie grins, walking over to where Tad and Ashley sat at a table in Pat's that night. She has been practically beaming with excitement the whole week for the upcoming game on Friday. "Excited for the game?"

"Yeah, we're all really excited." Ashley replies, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "I can't wait to watch you guys play. It's going to be a great game."

"Thanks." Winnie grins, feeling a burst of pride at Ashley's words. She takes a seat next to her, eager to chat about the game and all the preparations they've made. Then she remembers the project Ashley had been working on. "How's your project going, Ash?"

"Really good." Ashley grins, her face lighting up. "I'm actually almost done with it. Just a few more finishing touches and I'll be done."

"That's great." Winnie smiles, feeling a sense of relief. She had been worried about Ashley, knowing how important the project was to her. Ashley had been busy working on it lately, she barely got to see her. She's glad to know that everything's going well. "I'm sure it'll turn out great."

Ashley's smile widens at her words, her expression filled with pride. "Thanks, Nini. That means a lot."

Winnie gives Ashley a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Don't mention it." She's happy that things are going well for Ashley. She deserves it, she's worked so hard.

"Hey." Brooke greets as she joins the group with a smile, sitting by Winnie. "You know my Instagram fashion line?"

"No." Tad bluntly replied, looking confused. Winnie chuckled, slight amusement shining in her eyes.

"Exactly because none of my t-shirts are selling." Brooke frowned.

"Why not? You have the followers. You have the style." Ashley listed out, confused why her friend's clothing isn't selling.

"It's probably the prices." Winnie suggested, taking a sip from her milkshake.

"I don't think it's that because the thing people want now are funny t-shirts, and I think visually. I...I mean sure, I can compose a nice frame or color-block an outfit, but words just aren't my...My-My-"

"Your thing?" A voice cut in and the group looked over to see Stick joining them, sitting by Winnie and setting his coffee cup down. He shares a smile with Winnie, intertwining their fingers under the table. "What are you guys talking about?"

"Brooke's Instagram fashion line. Apparently, no one's buying her t-shirts." Winnie explained, sharing a look with him.

"Nini, you think your brother would help me out?" Brooke asks her, desperate for the help. "He's really great at coming up with witty slogans and designs. Maybe he could help me create some eye-catching t-shirts that people would want to buy."

Winnie nods, considering Brooke's suggestion. "Yeah, I think he might be able to help. He's got a knack for that kind of thing."

Brooke's eyes light up with hope, her face breaking into a hopeful smile. "Really? That would be amazing! I'm gonna call him now. He said earlier he had a class, but he should be done now." She got up, eagerly pulling her phone out of her pocket and walking away to make the call.

Winnie shakes her head fondly at her friend's antics, a small smile playing on her lips. Despite Reese going back to college, he and Brooke have been dating long-distance and have been doing well. Winnie was happy for them. She knows how much they care about each other and that they'll make it work. "So, the game. How are you feeling?" Ashley questioned, looking at her with concern.

"I'm good, yeah. I mean, a little nervous but that's normal, right? I'm ready." Winnie shrugged, trying to act casual despite her racing heart.

"Nervous is good. It shows you care." Stick comforted, rubbing her back. He could tell how anxious Winnie was about the game and he wanted to do whatever he could to reassure her and help her calm down.

"Exactly. You got this, Nini. We're all rooting for you." Ashley said encouragingly, giving Winnie a bright smile.

"Thanks, guys. It means a lot. I'm just glad I've got you guys to support me." Winnie said sincerely, smiling back at them.

"Of course, we've got your back, always." Ashley promised, her eyes shining with affection.

"Yeah, besides," Tad speaks up with a grin. "We're gonna kill it in the playoffs."

Winnie couldn't help but chuckle as she smiles at him. "Yeah, we are."

The group soon parted ways, Winnie and Stick decided to spend some alone time together, enjoying a quiet stroll through the park. They walked hand in hand, basking in each other's company as they talked and laughed. The air was crisp and refreshing, the leaves rustling in the gentle breeze as they wandered through the park's winding pathways. Winnie felt a sense of calm and tranquility wash over her, grateful for the chance to unwind and relax with Stick by her side. She had to admit she was anxious and nervous about the game, but with him, she felt like she could handle anything.

"I'm so proud of you, you know." Stick says suddenly, turning to look at her with an affectionate gaze. "For the game and all the hard work you've put into it. I know how much it means to you."

"You're not mad at me for being so busy with the team lately?" Winnie asked hesitantly, feeling a wave of guilt wash over her. She had been so preoccupied with the team and the upcoming game that she hadn't been spending as much time with Stick as she would've liked.

"Of course not. I understand, and I know how much this game means to you. And besides, since I'm the equipment manager we still got to hang out a bit." He teased.

"Right, of course. Still, I feel bad for not making enough time for you. You deserve better." Winnie said softly, her eyes filled with remorse. She hated the thought of disappointing him or making him feel like he wasn't a priority.

Stick stops in his tracks, turning to face her and gently cupping her face in his hands. "Winnie, listen to me. I'm not mad, I could never be mad at you. You're the most important thing in my life, and I know you would never intentionally hurt me or neglect me. I'm here for you, no matter what."

Winnie stared at him in awe, her heart melting at his words and the tenderness in his gaze. She felt a rush of affection for him, her feelings for him deepening with every moment they shared. She was so lucky to have him in her life, to have his support and his love. She knew that no matter what happened in the game or after it, he would always be by her side, standing beside her and believing in her.

"You're too good to me." Winnie smiled, leaning in and capturing his lips in a sweet kiss. Stick kissed her back, his hands leaving her face to wrap around her waist and pull her close. They lingered there for a while, lost in each other's embrace. Winnie could have sworn her heart skipped a beat at the feel of his lips on hers, the familiar taste and scent of him enveloping her and making her head spin. When they finally broke apart, they were both breathing heavily, their faces flushed and their eyes shining with adoration.

"I love you." Winnie breathed, resting her forehead against his as they caught their breath.

"I love you too." Stick grinned, his expression filled with joy.

The two stood there for a while, simply enjoying each other's presence and basking in the feeling of love and contentment that surrounded them. Winnie knew she had the most amazing boyfriend in the world, and she couldn't have been happier.

****

(winnie's outfit for this part of the chapter)

The next day at school, Winnie was eagerly talking with the team about the playoffs. The locker room was decorated with posters, banners, balloons, etc, and there was a buzz of excitement in the air as the players discussed the game. In the locker room, Winnie had her own private area where she could still be a part of the team but also have her privacy. Her private area of the locker room was decorated as well which made her feel even more included and appreciated. The guys were all supportive and encouraging, eager to get the game started and prove their worth.

"Okay, so what do you think our chances are of winning this thing?" Winnie questioned, looking at the group with curiosity.

"We're gonna crush them!" Tad exclaimed confidently, a wide grin on his face.

"Heck yeah, we are!" Cash agreed, high-fiving Tad as they grinned at each other.

"I think we've got a good shot at winning, especially with you as our quarterback. You're a natural." Stick added, giving her a warm smile. Her face turned red and she smiled at him shyly at his compliment.

"Aw, thanks, Stick. That means a lot coming from you." She murmured, her heart fluttering.

"Well, it's true." He shrugged, looking away with a sheepish smile. Winnie couldn't help but smile at the sight, grinning when she noticed he was blushing slightly. She had to admit, seeing him flustered was kind of adorable.

"Alright, alright. I think that's enough sappiness for now. We need to focus on the game." Kesler teased, rolling his eyes at the two of them.

"You're just jealous because you're single." Winnie smirked, playfully shoving him.

"Oh, you wanna go?" He taunted, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Bring it." She challenged, raising an eyebrow at him. It might've looked like an odd scene to see a five foot girl challenge a six foot man, but the two were good friends, and this was just how they were.

"Oh, I'll bring it. Let's go, shorty." Kesler grinned, getting into a fighting stance. Winnie grinned back at him, her competitive spirit shining through. The blonde had always been competitive and never backed down from a challenge.

"Guys, come on. We don't have time for this." Stick chuckled, trying to break up the fight before it could get out of hand.

"Relax, Stick. It's just a bit of fun. Plus it won't take long for me to beat Kesler." Winnie grinned, glancing at him briefly.

"Oh, really? I'd like to see you try." Kesler taunted, smirking at her. Kesler smirked before launching himself at her, attempting to tackle her. Winnie let out a surprised shriek as she was tackled, but quickly regained her balance and shoved him off. She grinned, feeling a rush of adrenaline as she jumped on his back and wrapped her legs around his waist.

"Come on, Kesler. Give it up." She grinned, tightening her hold on him. Kesler was surprised by her suddenly jumping on his back, but he quickly recovered, laughing as he tried to shake her off. The locker room echoed with their playful banter and laughter as they tussled on the floor, the rest of the team watching and cheering them on. Stick gave up on trying to break them up, knowing it would only result in him getting caught in the crossfire.

"What is going on in here?"

Everyone grew quiet at their coach's voice, looking up to see him standing in the doorway of his office in the locker room, staring at them with a raised eyebrow. Vic looked around at them expectantly, waiting for an answer.

"Nothing, Coach. Just a little harmless fun." Winnie replies innocently, climbing off Kesler's back and dusting herself off. She smiles sheepishly at him. "Sorry, Coach. We'll behave."

"Yeah, we're sorry, Coach." Kesler apologized, getting up from the floor and running a hand through his hair. He gave him a sheepish smile.

Vic had slight amusement in his eyes. "Uh-huh, I'm sure." He glances over at Winnie. "Winnie, I need to talk to you real quick, can you come to my office for a few moments?"

"Yeah, of course, Coach. Winnie nods, following him into his office. She closed the door behind her and took a seat across from him. She had to admit she was nervous and curious as to why he wanted to talk to her. "What do you wanna talk about?" She asked, looking at him curiously.

"This letter from the County Athletic Board arrived this morning and I'm afraid it's not good news." Vic replied, his expression grim.

"Letter from the County Athletic Board?" Winnie repeated, her brow furrowing with concern. She couldn't imagine what the Athletic Board would want with her, especially right before the playoffs.

"They're revoking your eligibility for the playoffs." Vic told her, his expression apologetic.

"What?!" Winnie exclaims, shock and disbelief evident in her voice. She couldn't believe what she was hearing, it seemed like a bad dream. She took the letter from him as he handed it to her, reading over the letter with a sinking heart. "But I didn't do anything wrong!" She protests, feeling a surge of anger at the unfairness of it. She pauses with reading when she realized something. "Wait, hold on, I can't play because I'm not a boy? What year is it, 1965?"

"I don't make the rules, kid." Vic said sympathetically.

"But Coach, you gotta do something." Winnie pleads, her eyes filled with desperation. "How did someone even find out about this stupid rule?" She grumbled.

"The lead coach to one of our rivals." Vic sighed, his voice laced with annoyance. 

"That jerk! I can't believe he would stoop so low." Winnie said angrily, feeling her frustration build. She knew exactly who it was, it had to be Coach T.J. Henderson, the rival team's coach. He was notorious for playing dirty and using any means necessary to win. Plus he was someone who believed that women didn't belong in football, or any sport for that matter and only thought that women belonged in the kitchen and to take care of a man and have kids. He was a sexist pig. "I'm not letting him get away with this." She vowed, her jaw clenched and her eyes blazing with determination as she stood. She had worked too hard to give up now.

"Whoa, hey, take it easy." Vic said calmly, trying to soothe her. He could tell how upset she was. He didn't blame her, but he knew they had to be calm and think rationally about their next steps. "I understand how you feel, but we need to handle this the right way. Don't worry, we'll figure it out."

Winnie sighs and reluctantly nods. She knew he was right, but she couldn't help but feel a wave of despair wash over her at the thought of not being able to play. She had put so much work and effort into her time with the team, and she didn't want to give it up without a fight. "I should probably go tell the guys, right?"

"Something tells me they already know." Vic replied sheepishly, pointing at the window of his office where the boys were not so subtly eavesdropping. Winnie sighed and rolled her eyes, turning to open the door which caused the boys to scramble away, pretending like they weren't just listening in. She couldn't help but smile fondly at their antics and roll her eyes.

"Guys-" Winnie started with a sigh.

"We totally weren't eavesdropping, right guys?" Stick quickly chimed in, nudging the guys. The others nod and mutter their agreement, not making eye contact with her. Vic chuckled and shook his head at the boys.

"Yeah, okay." Winnie snorts, rolling her eyes. "I don't care you guys were listening in. All I care about is the fact I won't be able to play the playoffs." She turns to face Vic, who now stood by the door to his office. "I mean, this sucks! Who even makes these rules? And why are we only just finding out about it now?" She grumbled, her hands clenching into fists.

"Winnie, calm down." Stick says softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. He could see how upset she was, and he wanted to do whatever he could to comfort her. "We'll figure this out, okay? We'll find a way to get you back on the field."

Winnie takes a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. She knew Stick was right, they couldn't let this setback defeat them. They had worked too hard and come too far to give up now. "You're right. We'll find a way to fix this. We won't let Coach Henderson win." She muttered, still feeling anger bubbling inside her.

"Yeah, we'll do everything we can to help you, Win." Bernie reassures her. "You're part of the team, and we look after our own." The rest of the team murmured their agreement, looking at her with determination and support. Winnie felt her heart warm at their words and the sight, knowing how lucky she was to have them.

"Thanks, guys. I really appreciate it. You're the best." Winnie smiled, feeling her spirits lift a bit. She had the best team and the best boyfriend she could ask for, and she knew they would stand by her through anything.

"Of course, Win." Tad grins at her. "We've got your back, always."

"Okay, so I researched what we could do to fix this," Vic speaks up as he looks at his phone. "It looks like we can get five thousand signatures for the County Athletic Board to hold a hearing regarding your eligibility. If we can prove that you're just as capable and skilled as any male player, they might reconsider their decision."

"That's a lot of signatures." Winnie murmurs, chewing on her lower lip in thought. It seemed like a daunting task, but if they were going to prove her worth as a player, they needed to prove to everyone else that she deserved to be on the field. "But I'm not giving up without a fight."

"That's my girl." Stick grinned, placing a kiss on the side of her head as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Winnie couldn't help but blush and smile at the gesture, feeling her heart skip a beat. He really knew how to cheer her up and make her feel better.

"I'm all for getting the signatures, but how are we supposed to do that? We only have two days left until the playoffs." Kesler pointed out, glancing at the group.

"Yeah, and people around here are pretty stubborn and hard-headed. Gonna be tough to get some signatures." Bernie adds. "They're not exactly big fans of change." He shrugged, his expression grim. He had a point, people in the small town were stuck in their ways, not wanting to accept new ideas and perspectives. It would be an uphill battle, but Winnie was determined. She was willing to do whatever it took to get the signatures and prove her worth as a player. It wasn't fair that she was being forced to give up the game she loved just because she was a girl.

"Well, we'll just have to show them that change can be a good thing. That's why we need to go big." Winnie suggests, looking around at them with an idea. "What if we organize a rally or a protest? We can get the whole school involved, spread the word on social media, and maybe even reach out to local news outlets to cover the story. If we can show that the entire community supports me and believes in my right to play, it might convince the County Athletic Board to reconsider their decision. We'll show them that we're not going down without a fight."

There was a moment of silence as the team thought over her suggestion, considering it carefully. Winnie watched them anxiously, hoping they would agree with her. If they were going to prove her worth, they needed to take a big stand and show everyone that she was serious about playing. She fidgeted with her hands as she waited for a response, trying to push down her nervousness while she leaned into Stick's side for comfort.

"That's actually a pretty good idea, Winnie." Bernie praises, a grin forming on his face. "If we can get the whole school and at least most of the town behind you, the County Athletic Board won't have a choice but to hear you out."

"Exactly. We can't let them think that they're getting away with this." Winnie agreed, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She couldn't let this setback stop her, she had to keep fighting. She had to prove to everyone that she belonged on the field, regardless of her gender. She was just as capable and skilled as any other player, and she wasn't going to let anyone tell her otherwise.

The team nodded in agreement, their expressions filled with determination and resolve. They were ready to do whatever it took to help Winnie, to show their support and solidarity. They knew that this wasn't just about one game or one player — it was about equality and fairness, about standing up for what was right.

"Alright, let's do this." Stick said, his voice filled with conviction as he squeezed Winnie's shoulder reassuringly. "We've got your back, Win. We'll make sure everyone knows that you deserve to be out there on the field."

And so, they began to plan. They reached out to their classmates, their teachers, and the local community, spreading the word about the rally and the petition. They used social media to drum up support, creating hashtags and sharing posts to get the word out. They contacted local news stations and newspapers, hoping to get coverage of their cause.

The response was overwhelming. People from all over town came out to show their support, holding signs and chanting slogans in solidarity with Winnie. The rally was a success, drawing attention from both the community and the media. Reporters interviewed Winnie and her teammates, capturing their passion and determination to fight for what was right. It was a lot harder than Winnie and the others thought it would be to get signatures for a petition. People were still unsure, skeptical and reluctant to sign, but Winnie and her team persisted, speaking to anyone who would listen and sharing their message of equality and fairness. Slowly but surely, the signatures began to accumulate, and the momentum of their movement grew stronger with each passing day.

****

(winnie's outfit for this part of the chapter & part of the next chapter)

As the day of the playoffs drew nearer, the pressure was on. Winnie and her team worked tirelessly to get the last few signatures they needed, hoping to make their deadline. The stress was palpable as the deadline neared, everyone was working overtime to get those last few signatures. But it was all worth it. With the help of her teammates and the whole school, Winnie reached her goal and managed to get the five thousand signatures needed for a hearing. She could hardly believe it, she was so proud of the entire school. They had come together and shown that they believed in her and supported her, and that was more than she could ever ask for. It meant the world to her to know that her classmates and fellow students cared so much.

Now, she was sitting in a courtroom, surrounded by her team and their families. She had never been to a courtroom before, and it was a little intimidating, but she had her team by her side, and that gave her the courage she needed. She was nervous, but determined to fight for her right to play. She knew that this was her chance to prove herself, to show the world that she belonged on the field. Winnie was standing next to Stick and her team, fidgeting nervously as she felt the tension in the air. She resisted the urge to roll her eyes when their rival coach, T.J. Henderson walked over to them, smirking at Vic.

"What's wrong, Vic? Couldn't find any men to play for you, so you had to settle for a little girl?" He sneered, his expression smug.

"I think you'll find that Winnie is more than a match for any boy out there." Vic retorted, his voice calm but firm. He wasn't going to let Henderson rattle him.

Henderson scoffs, glancing over at Winnie, who had her jaw clench and her hands at her sides formed into fists. Her nails were dug into her palm, trying to control her anger. He looks back at Vic, a smirk on his face. "Oh, really? I just thought you got so desperate that you had to settle for some girl who doesn't belong out there. This is a man's sport, Vic. And girls have no place out on the field.

Winnie felt her anger flare, she was barely able to keep it in check. Her fingernails dug deeper into her palm as she glared at him, her eyes blazing. Stick notices her reaction and his hand easily found hers, unclenching her hand and lacing his fingers through hers. Winnie felt her anger fade away a little and her heart skip a beat at his touch. She knew he was worried about her and only wanted to comfort her, but it didn't stop her mind from racing.

Vic shakes his head, his expression remaining calm. "That's not true and you know it, T.J. Just because Winnie is a girl, doesn't mean she's not a great player. In fact, she's one of the best players I've ever had the privilege to coach."

"But that doesn't change the fact that she's breaking the rules." Henderson counters, his tone smug. "And rules are rules, Vic. They're in place for a reason."

Vic sighs, shaking his head in disbelief. "Rules are meant to be fair and just. But this rule, barring girls from playing football, is neither. It's outdated and discriminatory." Winnie had to admit she was surprised that he was defending her. She assumed he would since he was her coach, but her heart warmed at the fact he believed in her so much. It meant a lot.

Henderson laughs dismissively. "Don't be so dramatic, Vic. This isn't a case of discrimination, it's about safety. You have no idea how dangerous this sport can be, especially for a girl. I mean, look at her! She's so tiny and fragile. I can't imagine her playing a game with actual grown men. She'd be crushed!" He glances at Winnie with a smug expression.

"I'm not fragile, you sexist jerk." Winnie mutters, her eyes narrowed into a glare. "And I can take care of myself, thank you very much." She had dealt with enough comments and looks from him the entire year, but she wasn't going to let his sexism deter her from playing.

Henderson shakes his head in amusement. "Oh, please. Don't try to pretend like you're strong, you're just a weak little girl. You have no business being out on that field, and the sooner you accept that, the better."

Before Winnie could reply, the judge called the hearing to order. The rest of the courtroom settled into silence as everyone sat down. Winnie was still fuming at what Henderson had said. Stick's hand intertwined with her helps calm her down a bit, though she still had an uneasy feeling in her stomach and the anger bubbling inside of her. She didn't know how the hearing was going to go, but she hoped the judge would be sympathetic to their cause.

"This is a hearing regarding the County Athletic Board's decision to exclude Winnie from participating in the playoffs due to a rule that bars female players from competing." One of the County Athletic Board's member speaks up. "Let's get started, shall we? Mr. Henderson, your argument first, please."

Henderson stands, his expression confident and smug. "Your honor, I believe it's clear that the rule in question exists for a reason. Football is a physically demanding sport, and it's simply not safe for a girl to be out there on the field with male players. It's not about discrimination, it's about protecting the safety of the players. Winnie may be a talented athlete, but she's still a girl, and she's not equipped to handle the physicality of the game at this level. Allowing her to play would not only put her in danger but also jeopardize the safety of the other players."

He sits back down, a self-satisfied smirk on his face as he glances over at Winnie. She grits her teeth, feeling her anger boiling inside of her. She wanted to prove him wrong, to show him that she was more than capable of playing alongside the boys. She couldn't believe it. He just acted like he was concerned about her when he clearly wasn't. She couldn't stand him.

"Well, that's certainly an...interesting perspective." The County Board member muses. "Mr. Vic, would you like to respond?"

Vic stands, his expression calm and collected. "Your honor, this rule is an unfair and outdated restriction. It discriminates against female athletes and denies them the opportunity to compete based solely on their gender. Winnie has proven herself to be a skilled and capable player, and she deserves the chance to play in the playoffs just like any other member of the team. Barring her from playing not only goes against the principles of equality and fairness but also goes against the spirit of the game. Football is a game of skill, and Winnie has plenty of that. There's no reason she shouldn't be allowed to play."

The County Athletic Board member nods thoughtfully, seeming to consider his argument. "I see. Well, thank you both for your comments. Winnie, would you like to say anything?"

"Yes, your honor." Winnie says as she stood up, taking a deep breath to calm herself. She knew she had to be respectful and professional, even if she wanted to strangle Henderson. "First of all, I'd like to thank the County Athletic Board for hearing our case and giving us the opportunity to speak. Secondly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my teammates and coach, Vic. Their support and belief in me has made this possible, and I couldn't have gotten this far without them. Finally, I'd like to address Mr. Henderson's comments directly. He claims that allowing me to play would put me in danger, and that's simply not true. I get tackled all the time, but I get up all the time. I know the risks of playing football, and I'm willing to take them. I'm not fragile, and I'm not weak. I've trained hard and worked just as hard as any other player on this team, and I deserve the chance to prove myself on the field. Barring me from playing isn't about safety, it's about sexism and discrimination. It's about denying me the opportunity to pursue my passion and showcase my skills simply because of my gender. I refuse to accept that. I refuse to let anyone tell me what I can and cannot do based on outdated stereotypes and prejudices. I am a football player, and I belong on that field just as much as anyone else. Thank you."

The courtroom fell into silence as Winnie finished speaking, her words echoing in the air. She could feel the weight of everyone's gaze on her, and for a moment, she felt a surge of fear and uncertainty. But then she looked over at her teammates, who were all watching her with pride and support, and she felt a renewed sense of determination. She wasn't going to let anyone intimidate her or make her doubt herself. She had come too far to give up now.

The County Athletic Board member nodded thoughtfully, seeming to consider everything that had been said. "Thank you, Winnie. We will now take a brief recess to deliberate and review the evidence presented. Once we have made a decision, we will return to announce the outcome. In the meantime, I ask that everyone remain in this courtroom."

With that, the members of the County Athletic Board turn to each other to speak amongst each other quietly. The courtroom fell into a tense silence as everyone waited anxiously for the verdict. Winnie could feel the anxiety building up inside of her, her stomach twisted with unease. She was worried that her speech hadn't been enough, that they wouldn't allow her to play. She knew she was being silly, she had done her best, but it was still nerve-wracking.

Stick squeezes her hand in comfort, sensing her worries and nerves. He leans over and whispers into her ear. "You're amazing, baby. Don't worry, I'm sure the board will see it, too. If they don't, they're all fools."

His words help ease her worries, and she takes a deep breath, leaning into him. He always seemed to know how to make her feel better. His words and touch helped calm her nerves, and she was thankful for it. She didn't know what she would do without him by her side, encouraging her and supporting her. He truly was the best boyfriend in the world. She turned to lean over to kiss his cheek, her heart swelling with affection for him. His cheeks turn red at the sweet gesture and he smiled bashfully, making Winnie grin.

A few minutes later, the County Athletic Board have finished talking and the main one speaks up. "After a thorough review of the evidence and testimony presented today, the County Athletic Board has reached a decision."

Winnie feels her breath hitch in her throat, her heart pounding in her chest. She felt like her entire future was hanging in the balance. The moment seemed to drag on for an eternity as the member continues to talk.

"We have decided to overturn the ruling banning female players from the game and allow Winnie and any other girl to play high school football."

As the words registered, the courtroom erupted into cheers. Winnie could hardly believe it, she almost didn't realize it had happened until her team surrounded her and wrapped her up in a tight hug. The excitement and relief were palpable as her teammates celebrated their victory. They had won, and Winnie could finally play in the playoffs. The news spreads like wildfire through the courtroom, and soon everyone is celebrating.

"Though before you all continue to celebrate, I do need to explain that this won't go to the court for another thirty days. Which is after the playoffs will happen, but there's no way to speed up the process. However, we've made our decision, and we stand by it. Congratulations, Winnie. You've fought hard, and you deserve this victory." The County Athletic Board member smiled at her, his expression filled with respect and admiration.

Winnie felt her heart drop at the news, her excitement and relief dissipating. She had known the hearing wouldn't change the rules immediately, but she had been hoping that maybe the County Athletic Board would have some kind of influence and could expedite the process. She was disappointed since she wanted to be able to play the playoffs. She worked so hard for this, and now she would have to wait even longer. She felt her shoulders sag as the reality of the situation set in. Despite her disappointment, Winnie was still filled with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. She had fought for this, and she had won. She may not have gotten the immediate victory she had hoped for, but she knew she had made a difference, and that was enough.

Henderson stands up with a smirk as he looks over at Winnie and the others. "Ha! Looks like the joke's on you, Winnie. You won't be able to play the playoffs because the decision won't come through in time. And I told you girls didn't belong on the field."

Winnie glares at him and starts to move over to him, but Stick had quickly held her back with his arm, knowing what she was about to do. "Winnie, no. You know he's trying to get a reaction from you. Don't give him what he wants."

She took a deep breath, trying to control her temper. She had almost forgotten about Henderson's smug, sexist attitude. She was so caught up in the victory and the possibility of playing the playoffs, she had let herself forget the whole reason this hearing had happened. She was disgusted by his behavior, and she wanted nothing more than to wipe that smug look off his face. But Stick was right, she couldn't let him get to her. She had won, and that was what mattered. She won't be able to play the playoffs, but now the rule that girls can't play football will be overturned. Winnie felt a sense of pride at the knowledge that her efforts had paid off, that her determination and hard work had won her the victory she had sought.

"Well, it looks like the joke's on you, Mr. Henderson." Winnie shot back, her expression defiant. "Girls can and do belong on the field, and I'll prove it next year when I get to play in the playoffs. See you then."

Henderson scoffed, shaking his head in disbelief as he got up to leave. Winnie could tell he was frustrated, and she couldn't help but smile. She knew he had been hoping she wouldn't have the chance to play the playoffs, and her comeback had clearly stung. She was glad she was able to get the last word, and she knew that next year, she would get her chance to show the world that girls could play football. She couldn't wait.

As the rest of the courtroom begins to disperse, the County Athletic Board member approaches her, a smile on his face. "Congratulations, Winnie. I have a feeling you'll go far in life, and I can't wait to see what the future holds for you. You're a fighter, and that's a good quality to have. I'm sorry we have no way to rush the process, but I hope you understand."

Winnie smiles gratefully at the County Athletic Board member, her heart filled with gratitude. "Thank you so much. I really appreciate your support and understanding. And don't worry, I'll be ready to play next year. This victory means everything to me, and I won't let it go to waste. Thank you for believing in me."

With that, she joined her teammates and coach, feeling a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over her. They may not have won the immediate victory they had hoped for, but they had made a difference. They had fought against injustice and discrimination, and they had won. And as they left the courtroom together, Winnie knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, she would always have her team by her side, ready to face them together.

A/N ofc this chapter was inspired by the episode in bella & the bulldogs where the rival coach finds this rule & tries to stop bella from playing football!! thought that episode was really great & wanted to do something similar. that show is really good btws, you guys should go check it out <3 also i love winnie & stick so much, theyre so cute