Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses themes surrounding racism and sexism in sports, including intimidation.

Shenice Lockwood is the novel’s protagonist and narrator, who relates the plot through her first-person point of view. She is the 12-year-old captain of the Fulton Firebirds, the only all-Black softball team in their district. Though she loves playing softball, she has a deep connection with her family and friends that imbues her with a sense of duty. She strives to be the best captain, daughter, and friend she can be without accepting help from others, which causes overwhelm that prevents her from accomplishing any of her goals. Her defining characteristics are her sense of duty, ability to listen and believe others, and determination to see tasks through.

Shenice’s character arc guides the novel’s structure, as her growth categorizes the novel as a Bildungsroman. In the beginning, Shenice is ambitious and determined but is also a lone wolf. Though she has friends, she believes she must shoulder all responsibility without requesting assistance or allowing her friends to help until the weight of duty crushes her. To accomplish her goals, Shenice must learn to share her burdens with others and accept that she is not solely responsible for everything and everyone around her.