Why Are We Different

Jennifer Fox '26

If I’m fast down the court, when I beat you to the hoop

You tell me I’m fast for a girl.

Why does the last part need to be said

Why do I have to be fast for a girl

Why can’t I just be fast, faster than you?

Because I’m not a man, I’m supposed to always come behind?

Because you’re bigger, stronger, tougher I’m not supposed to win?

Am I supposed to stand aside and let you walk all over everything I’ve worked for

Take away opportunities for me to shine under the lights?

When I succeed you’re shocked, everyone is.

I’m not supposed to be as good, better.

When my shots fall and yours don’t, it’s just an off day

It’s never because I’m better, because I work harder, because I want it more.

Why are we ignored when we win just as much

When we win more.

Why are our stands empty when we consistently bring results

Why are yours full when all you do is fail?

Nothing we do will ever be enough

Our stands stay empty, our records fade away

You always ask for more,

More fans, more attention, more, more, more.

Why?

To outshine us, to prove that at the end of the day you matter more

We bend over backwards, questions are never asked because you deserve it more

Double headers are just one game.

When you call they come running

Cheering you on till the buzzer sounds. 

We wait in silence 

We watch our game go by

Watch as they come in for the last minute

Only here to get a good seat to see you.

No one wants to see us win, only you lose.

Are we really different?

Because to me we’re one of the same

So what makes you better?

Why do you deserve it more?

Because I work just as hard, harder

Because I want it just as much, more

But you never see that

To you, I’ll always be below

An inconvenience, a burden to play with.

No one wants the girl.

I hear what you say

See your face when I make my shot

See the plan flash through your eyes.

Ice me out, take a one on four

Anything but give me the ball.

Why won’t you pass me the ball?

Is it because you don’t trust me to convert

Because I’ve beaten you down the court time and time again

I’m faster, I’m stronger, I’m better.

But you just say I’m fast for a girl.