by Kristen Nugent (Author)

"Hat Trick" Patrick Ford is one of the best soccer players in the town of Oakcrest-but facing his friend and rival Nicole in Saturday's game brings new challenges. Nicole is strong and competitive, but sometimes Patrick isn't sure how he ought to behave. Should he treat Nicole any differently on the field just because she's a girl? What about when she fouls him? Patrick knows he's supposed to stand up for himself, but he also knows he's not supposed to hit girls, but he also knows boys and girls are equal... it's just so confusing!

Luckily, Patrick doesn't have to confront these questions alone. Usually Patrick and his dad review strategy and technique on the car ride home from Patrick's games, but today Patrick and Mr. Ford discuss rivalry and restraint.