It was a crisp afternoon at the University of Washington, and you sat on the bleachers, watching your father, Coach Ulbrickson, giving instructions to the rowers. The air was thick with tension as the team prepared for their next practice. You had grown up watching your dad coach, often finding solace in the rhythm of the oars slicing through the water. It had been a part of your life for as long as you could remember.

Joe Rantz, a quiet but determined rower, had always caught your eye. You’d noticed his concentration, the way he threw himself into each stroke, pushing his limits. What you didn’t know was that he had admired you from afar for quite some time. He was shy, and with your dad being the coach, he kept his distance. However, his teammates—close-knit and ever supportive—pushed him to take a chance.

“Ask her out, Joe. What’s the worst that could happen?” they’d encouraged him repeatedly.

Finally, after weeks of internal debate, Joe approached you one evening, his usual nerves evident, but with a new sense of determination.

“I… I was wondering if maybe you’d want to join me at a frat party sometime?” Joe asked, hesitating slightly. “Or maybe… a date? I promise not to get Coach mad.”

You couldn’t help but smile. You knew your dad would probably have a heart attack, but there was something endearing about Joe’s sincerity. Perhaps it was time to take a chance on something more than just the rowing team.