Another day in London where the weather is unpredictable. One day it's sunny. The next it's pouring rain. Today is somewhere in between. Gray skies. Drizzle. It's match day, and I'm standing pitch-side watching the team warm up against Leicester. Jamie's hamstring is holding. Marcus's shoulder is stable. The preseason work paid off.
The rugby season started two weeks ago, and we're undefeated. Three wins. Zero losses. The team is flying, and today, I find out if I got the promotion.Head of Sports Medicine and Performance.
I've been working toward this for two years, putting in the hours, the research, and the proposals for new recovery protocols that have cut our injury rate by thirty percent. I'm the most qualified person for the job, and I want it.
"Jo!" Coach waves me over. I jog across the pitch. "Marcus needs his shoulder checked before kickoff." I nod and get to work.
We win. 28-14.
The team is celebrating in the locker room afterward. I'm packing up my kit when my phone buzzes.
Unknown Number: Hi Joelle, this is David Cooper. Could you come by my office on Monday morning at 9 a.m.? Want to discuss the Head of Department position.
My heart jumps.It's the new owner of the club.This is it. He wants to talk to me about the promotion.Does this mean I've got it?I'm nervous and excited at the same time.
Jo: Absolutely. See you Monday.
Polly's home for once, a rare occurrence these days with her new job at the football club. I tell her that night over wine.
"That's amazing!" She squeals. "You're definitely getting it."
"You don't know that."
"Jo. You're the best. Everyone knows it. This is just a formality."
I hope she's right.
We move on to what's been happening with her at her new club. I miss her so much. No more lunch breaks together. No venting between meetings. No spontaneous coffee runs. My work life is boring without her in it, but she's so happy and thriving in her new position.
Monday morning, I'm freaking out as I make my way to David Cooper's office. I don't want to be late for this meeting. So, I'm there before nine, prepared and ready.
Connie, the receptionist, greets me warmly. She's been working for the club for years. She tells me to have a seat while she lets him know I'm here.
When he's ready for me, she gives me an excited thumbs up, and I walk into Mr. Cooper's office. He's sitting behind his desk when I enter. Mid-fifties. Salt and pepper hair. Expensive suit. The club is not really a suit kind of place, everyone is typically in athletic gear. He's probably the kind of guy who bought the club as a vanity project or tax write-off.
"Joelle, thanks for coming in." He smiles warmly but doesn't get up, just points to the chair.
"Of course." I take my seat, trying not to let my sweaty palms be too noticeable.
"I wanted to talk to you about the Head of Sports Medicine position." I nod. "You were highly recommended. The team and the coaches love you. I can see since you've been here, injuries are down, and the team's performance has increased by thirty percent."
Okay. This is it. He doesn't have to butter me up. I'm going to accept the promotion.
"And I don't think there is anyone more qualified to mentor Cameron Cooper."
"Mentor Cameron?" I ask before I understand what he's asking.
"Yes. My son."
I don't quite understand. Was this meeting about asking me to mentor his son?
"He just finished his degree in sports science and wants to get his feet wet in the industry. I think this is a perfect opportunity for him."
"Of course. What better way to get experience than at his family's club?"
"See, I knew you would understand why I gave Cameron the position." David smiles widely.
I still. "Excuse me?"
