Alex‘s True Goal (Where Dignity Grows, #11)

Written by Eva Suluk and published by the Arts Incubator Winnipeg and the Art Borups Corners Storytelling Club, Alex‘s True Goal invites readers into the world of a young soccer star grappling with a big decision. Alex is the fastest player on the Green Dragons, the team‘s shining hope for the championship. The cheers are deafening, his dad is proud, and everyone in town expects him to win. But beneath the roar of the crowd, Alex feels a quiet unease, a heavy weight that even scoring goals can‘t lift. His real joy lies in the quiet corners of the Sunny Paws Animal Shelter, a secret world of soft purrs and gentle yips where he finds peace and purpose. As the championship approaches, Alex faces an impossible choice: uphold everyone‘s expectations, or follow the quiet call of his own heart? Can he find the courage to define happiness on his own terms and prove that true victory isn‘t always found on the field? This short story also includes a Discussion Guide for classes, families and groups to reflect and discuss values of kindness and dignity.