The Rockspur Eleven: A Fine Football Story for Boys

"The Rockspur Eleven: A Fine Football Story for Boys" by Burt L. Standish is a tale from the late 1800's centered on a group of boys and their passion for football, featuring Don Scott, a young player dealing with his anger and learning how to work as part of a team. A new, arrogant coach named Dolph Renwood adds to the tension. The book is about friendship, competition, and controlling your emotions when things get tough; it starts with Don in a bad mood under an apple tree because of Renwood and the pressure to do well. His cheerful friend, Danny Chatterton, tries to convince him to practice, but Don's pride and anger cause a fight where he says he doesn't like Renwood's coaching. After talking with his dad, who tells him to manage his temper, Don struggles with his feelings as he deals with his friends and the football team dynamic, setting the stage for a story of a young boy learning important life lessons through sports.