My daughter had her last lacrosse team dinner last night. She’s in 9th grade, first time on a big team. I’ve been skeptical about the lofty claims people make for sports and character, but I have to say: one brilliant coach can be transformative. Here, a sweatshirt with her last name on the back, a group photo on the field under night lights, and a small card with the word “optimism” on it.

Sara Hendren @ablerism