The Academy

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes depictions of bullying.

Leo Doyle explains that it’s the first time he’s ever written a journal. He is 12 years old and has just completed sixth grade. His mother passed away two years earlier, but he lives with his sister and father. He explains that he was invited to train in an academy that prepares kids to play in England’s Premier League.

He’s not confident that he will be talented enough to make the youth team, but he wants the money he’d earn from playing to help prevent his father from losing their house.

Flashing back to how he came to England, Leo recalls playing against the Columbus Tigers. His team was losing three to two. Leo scored the second goal to narrow the Tigers’ lead because he’s very good at scoring.

Briefly distracted by his dad on the side of the field, Leo then intercepts the ball and passes it to a teammate, who sends it further downfield. Leo gets to it and goes to score. One of the defenders trips him, and the referee shows him a red card. Leo’s team gets a penalty kick. Leo’s kick nearly goes in but hits the top of the net.