McKenna Shoots For The Stars (2012)

[bunniefuu]

I did it, coach!

McKenna, we've talked
about this before.

Those back handsprings leading into
your dismount are too advanced.

They're not consistent.
That could be risky for you.

You need to take it
one step at a time.

But it looks so awesome!

McKenna...

I know, I just wanna impress the
judges at the qualifying meet!

I have to make
the Regional Competitive Team.

For girls my age, if you want
to make it to the Olympics...

Honey, this isn't
about the Olympics. Remember?

You have a qualifying meet
in three months.

That's just enough time to
perfect what you already have.

You gotta be patient. We're gonna
get you where you wanna go.

Do you trust me?

Yes.

Besides, the judges are gonna be

blown away without
the back handspring.

I saw your back handspring dismount.
It was amazing!

That's the reason you're the
second-best gymnast on this team.

Second-best?

Second to me, of course.

Just like it'll be in 2016,
Rio Summer Olympics.

I'll be up on
the podium with my gold,

you next to me with your silver.

Hello! Toulane.
It's reality calling.

I'm gonna be up
there wearing my gold!

So what do you
think of the new girl?

Sierra?

Okay, Sierra,
let's work on that flip set.

She seems nice.

In a totally annoying way.

I heard her saying
she gets straight A's.

No competition there.

You know who we so need
to worry about, though?

Megan Murphy from
Performance Plus Gymnasts.

Everyone thinks she's all that.

Megan is pretty awesome.

But, whatever. I'm not letting
her or anyone else scare me!

Yeah, but if they're only taking

three gymnasts for
the Competitive Team,

we need to make sure
that they pick us!

They will.

What is it?
Are you sad that you've been

second-best to me
since we were three?

No.

Coach Isabelle keeps saying that I have
to stick to the boring, easy moves.

I feel like
I'm in Baby Gymnastics!

I can handle the hard moves.

Please, you can handle anything!
You're a superstar.

We should get back
to work or my mom's

gonna be all over me
for messing around.

Okay.

Ready to work? Ready to fly!

Ready?

Let's go.

McKenna, McKenna, guess what?
I did a cherry drop today.

That's awesome, Maisey!

How about you, Mara?

I got nervous.

You'll do it next time.

Let's go, sweetie.

Okay, let's go, grandma.

Honey, you need to work
on your floor routine.

But I'm really trying.

It might help if you didn't goof
around so much during practice.

I'm sorry.

Toulane, this is important.

If you don't make it to the
Regional Competitive Team,

you'll never have
a chance to become

an Elite Gymnast
like your sister.

I know. I'll try harder, mom.

Okay.

I've got
an announcement to make.

I was able to secure
a primo campsite

for this summer's camping trip.

Don't forget to tell Toulane it's
gonna be the first weekend in June.

It wouldn't be our annual
camping trip without her.

Got it. Good.

Honey, how was
the coffee shop today?

Oh, it was great. There was a
line out the door all morning.

Stop giving all your
chicken to the dog, Maisey.

Anyway, you know
the guitar player I hired

for music Mondays,
he didn't show up.

On his first day!

Honey, you could've hired me.

It's not too late. I can call the
rest of the guys from the band

and we can get
a quick set together...

Oh, honey, you know
I love you, so much.

But your grunge
college rock band

would probably just scare
my customers away.

Oh, come on.

No one here can resist...

No, no, no, he's gonna do it!

Cover your ears! Plug!

The righteous sound
of I hate Tuesday.

Dad, no, don't do it.
Dad, no, don't!

That was great
for a one day streak

but then came the weakest
day of the week now

ready?

I hate Tuesdays

dad, you're not a rock star,
you're a high school principal!

A high school principal
who rocks!

You guys are so weird.

Yeah. Maisey, Mara, why don't
you go play in your room?

Your dad and I want
to talk to McKenna.

Come on, let's go.

Just go play in your room...
No, Cooper!

Okay.

McKenna, your mother
and I got an e-mail

from your teacher,
Mr. Wu, today.

I can totally explain that.

I didn't mean to feed that French
fry to the class Guinea pig,

it just fell out of my hand.

No, no. Not about that.

About you falling
behind in your schoolwork.

Falling behind?

Mr. Wu has noticed
you're having difficulty

turning your assignments
in on time.

He suggested a tutor
from the middle school.

Four days a week after school.

Four days a week! No way!

Honey, Mr. Wu
thinks you need it.

And we think gymnastics is
taking up too much of your time.

Well, there's a lot
going on right now.

I mean, first we
have that demonstration

where we show all
you guys our routines,

and then we have the qualifying
meet for the Regional Team.

But I can do better in school.

On my own.

I promise.

There's a science quiz tomorrow,

and I'll study
really hard for it.

All right. We'll see
how the quiz goes.

But remember...

I know, school comes first.

Okay, polka dot,
you can have a treat.

I wish I were a hamster.

You don't have parents bugging
you about your grades.

You're so lucky. You get to do
your gymnastics whenever you want.

“The nuclear envelope
encloses the nucleus,

"separating the contents
from the cytoplasm.”

None of this
makes any sense to me.

It was awesome.

I know,
and it was so funny, too.

So,

dare you guys
nervous about the quiz?

Nervous? I don't do nervous.

Yeah, but don't you think the reading
is sometimes a little confusing?

Um...

You're forgetting,
Sierra gets straight A's.

Don't stress, you'll be fine.

Oh, yeah, I don't know why I
was freaking out anyways,

I'm sure it'll be easy.

Okay, everyone,
let's get started.

I hope you've all
studied very hard.

You've got 30 minutes.
Good luck.

“Name the differences
between plant and animal cells?

"True or false:
Every cell has a nucleus.

"What is a microscope?
A. A tiny piece of equipment,

"B. Something used
to study small objects,

"C. A measuring tool...

"Specialized cells
do very specific...

"What part of
the cell controls...”

McKenna,
can I see you for a moment?

I just don't understand it.
It's so not like you to cheat!

I tried to do it on my own
but it was like...

I couldn't remember
anything I was reading.

I don't know, okay?

I'm sorry.

It's time to meet that tutor.

Mr. Wu had to give you
a zero on the quiz.

He did?

Yeah.

He thinks you might have a problem
with reading comprehension.

He does?

Yeah. It happens a lot.

When I was
an elementary-school teacher,

I used to see it all the time.

Mr. Wu says a lot of fourth
graders deal with this.

There's even a name for it,
"fourth grade slump."

What's that?

Well, you know how to read.

Now it's all about understanding
what you're reading.

That's where
you're getting stuck.

But I can't get
a tutor right now.

I have so much going on.

You mean gymnastics?

Well, yes, gymnastics.

Making the Regional Team

is the most important thing
to me in the whole world!

McKenna, listen up,
because here's the deal.

No tutor, no gymnastics.

Your school work
has to come first.

You're gonna start
with the tutor tomorrow.

Okay.

Thanks.

And we'll discuss your
punishment for cheating later.

Great.

McKenna?

Hey. I'm Josie.

So you're my tutor?

Yep! Have a seat.

As you can see,
I've already done that.

I call him lightning.

Cool. I like the color.

Thanks.

So, I guess you've been
having some reading problems?

So my teacher says. But I
really don't see how I could.

I mean,
I used to love to read...

Used to? But not anymore.

I don't know, it's boring. And
I'm really busy with gymnastics.

Oh, yeah, that's right,
you're a gymnast.

Well, maybe you can think
of studying with me

as gymnastics for your brain.

Hi, did the book I reserved come in?
Um...

Yeah.

Great, thanks. No problem.

Sorry, I dropped my pencil.

Actually, I'm already gonna
be late for gymnastics.

So, can we start?

Yeah. I have
a flute lesson after this.

So let's make
the most of our time.

If that's okay with your pencil.

Right. Okay.

So, let's work on this today.

You said you had trouble
with a quiz, right?

I guess.

Okay, here you go.

Where were you?

What do you mean, where was I?

It's Wednesday!

We always get smoothies before
practice on Wednesdays.

Oh, right. Sorry,
I guess I spaced out.

So, are you psyched for the
demonstration this weekend?

I can't wait to show you up
with my k*ller beam.

I don't know,
my mom keeps saying

I need more work
on my floor routine.

She says I've been goofing off.

You have not!

And besides,
it's just a demonstration.

They're not even
gonna be judging us!

Is something wrong?

No, I'm just super thirsty.

"The dog would
have to go back to its owner.

"Julie's mother had
to insist even though

"Julie wanted to
keep the dog for herself.

"He was so sweet and playful and
he seemed to really like her.

"But she realized
that her mother was right.

"The dog didn't belong to her,
even though she found him.

"So she decided to return
the dog to his owner.

"Maybe she'd get
her own dog, someday."

You read aloud really well.

So, how do you think Julie
feels at the end of the story,

after she decides
to give her dog back?

I don't know. I don't remember.

I've got another idea.

But these are books
my 5-year-old sisters read!

You really think
I'm such a loser

I need to read
kindergarten books?

You're not a loser, McKenna.

Sometimes we have to
go back to the basics,

and go back to what feels easy.

Don't you ever do
that in gymnastics?

You sound just like my coach.

And I'm sorry,
but this is not gymnastics!

I don't think
this is gonna work.

I think I need to
get another tutor.

Okay, well, that's your choice.

I'll tell Mr. Wu.

I'm sure you can find another
tutor who's more your style.

Hi.

Hey.

Tell me the theme of the story.

Go! Um...

Sorry, too slow. Next question.

What does the main
character learn? Go!

Uh...

Sorry, too slow, again.

Who are the main characters
in the story? Go!

What is the setting
of the story? Go!

Too slow!

Worst tutor ever.

There has to be someone else!

There's Josie.

But Josie makes me
feel like a baby...

McKenna, enough is enough.

You need a tutor.
And Josie is a great one.

Okay.

Good.

And good luck on your
gymnastics demonstration.

Thanks.

Welcome, everyone.

The sh**ting Star Gymnasts and I

are so excited to show off
for you a little bit today!

In a little less than three months,
our girls will be trying out

along with all the other
gymnastic clubs in the area,

to make the Regional
Competitive Team.

Now, these girls have
been working really hard.

But today is just for fun,
so let's get on with it.

And first up is Sierra Kuchinko!

At least she
didn't fall this time.

Wow!

Good luck, McKenna.

Thanks, coach Isabelle.

Remember, stick to your routine.

And now,
McKenna Brooks on the beam.

See that?

No!!

No, McKenna!

Owl

McKenna...

I'm sorry, coach.

It's okay. It's okay.

Are you okay? It hurts.

- You're all right. Mr.
- Let's get some ice.

Come on over to the couch,
McKenna. Let's get your foot up.

Here you go, honey. Yeah.

How about some ice cream?

Cookies 'n cream
can't help a broken ankle.

McKenna, coach Isabelle
warned you not...

Mmm-mmm.

Honey, it's just eight weeks in a cast.
It's not the end of the world.

It is the end of
the world for Mel

eight weeks means
my cast comes off

three weeks before
the qualifying meet!

You know what? The doctor
said you can start exercises

that don't involve that foot in two weeks.
Maybe it will all work out.

In the meantime, you can spend
more time on your homework,

which is more important.

Right.

Whatever.

McKenna...

McKenna...

McKenna!

You guys are
probably glad this happened,

so I have nothing
to do but study.

You don't mean that.

McKenna!

McKenna! I was sorry to
hear about your injury.

May I talk to you for a second?

Sure.

Josie can meet you
tomorrow in the library

after school to start
your sessions again.

Yeah, okay. Thanks.

What was that all about?

Um...

I'm gonna leave class
a little early tomorrow.

To start physical therapy.

Physical therapy in a cast?
How's that gonna work?

Where are you going?

Wow.

That's awesome.

I've never seen them
rehearse before.

I never should've quit dance.

I could totally rock that move.

Wow, you really
would be great at that.

Better not let your mom
see you goofing off.

Right.

Hey, you're lucky you don't
have to be in practice today.

Sierra is being extra annoying.

She's like, "I'm gonna have a
slumber party for the whole team!"

She's just trying
to make friends.

Why can't I say one
little thing about her

without you
jumping in to defend her?

I mean, if you like her so much,

why don't you make her
your new best friend?

What are you talking about? And
what's your deal with Sierra anyway?

I don't know, it's just...

You must be hanging out
with somebody else

because I don't even know
where you are half the time.

I don't have to let you know where
I am every five seconds, okay?

And I've got lots of extra
pressure on me right now.

Like what?

You know,
with my foot and stuff.

Right. Whatever. See you later.

Okay, there you go.
Triple Espresso.

Hope you're planning
to be up all night.

Thanks.

Could you take this
up to Phillip, please?

Oh, there's my daughter.

McKenna! Hey, baby!

This is
the first time I have been

able to sit down
since this morning!

Mmm!

What? Is there something here?

Here? You would tell me, right?

Yeah. Oh, I bet you would.

Okay...

Did I get it? Yep.

Okay.

So, it's pizza night!

I was thinking of bucking the
system and ordering from Antonio's.

What do you think?

Wherever is fine with me.

Wherever? Are you okay?

What's happening?
What's happening?

You're usually filled with
opinions about where we order.

Sorry. I'm just stressing.

Tomorrow I start up
with Josie again.

And that's a bad thing?

I don't know!

I mean, Josie
treats me like a baby.

Oh, honey, I know how hard
this is for you. I know.

You've always been my strong-willed,
hard-charging little girl.

Mmm!

You were even born...
Say it with me.

Two weeks early.
Two weeks early.

Just ready to get out there
and take on the world.

Not anymore. Now I can't
seem to do anything right.

And there's another thing.

There is? What?

Having a tutor, mom,
it's embarrassing.

What's so funny?

No, no, nothing, nothing.
It's just,

you know, honey,
you and I are a lot alike.

How?

Well, we both feel
like we should be

able to handle
everything on our own.

And sometimes we go too far, and
things sort of get off balance.

You know how, when you're
on the balance beam,

if you lean a little too far to the
right or the left you fall off?

That's only the first thing
we have to learn.

Oh, okay, little miss expert.

Well, that's the point.
It's the same in life.

You have to have some balance.

Like, why do you think I left the
bank and opened this coffee shop?

Um...

You like coffee?

Yes. And, I needed to get
some balance in my life.

I needed to be my own boss.

Yay, me!

And also, I needed to be there
for you guys after school.

And I thought I could
do it all on my own,

be there for the twins, take you to
practice, be home to make dinner.

It was overwhelming.

And your grandma came to me,
and offered to help.

And guess what? What?

I was embarrassed.

Embarrassed to admit I
couldn't do it all on my own.

But your grandmother taught me something.
You know what that is?

What?

Nothing wrong with
needing a little help.

Thanks for meeting me again.

Look, I know that Mr. Wu
forced you to come here

and you don't want to be here.

But, can we at least try
to make the best of it?

Um...

Okay.

Great. So, let's start
with science, probably.

All righty then. So, science...

I better go look
for another book!

McKenna...

Oh, I just need to find a book
about oceans for science class.

Whoa!

Uh-oh.

Thank you.

Oh, well, guess we'll have
to try again Thursday.

Not if you spend
the whole time hiding again.

What?

Look, I get it that you're
embarrassed to have a tutor,

but this is not gonna work
unless you give it a chance.

So, I hope you're ready
to do that by Thursday.

McKenna, wait...

Toulane. I really love how
hard you're working today,

but why don't you
take a break, now?

I can't. My mom says my
floor routine looks messy.

I think I need to
keep working on it.

I mean, my sister made it to the
Olympic Trials in that event!

Yeah, but then Tasha fell

and she broke her wrist
and couldn't compete.

You know there is such a
thing as training too hard.

Besides, gymnastics
is supposed to be fun!

Tell that to my mom.

Um...

I just wanted to
tell you something.

I had a tutor too.

You did?
But you have straight A's.

Now I do, but I used to
be really bad at math.

So, I needed help.

But now, math is
a lot easier for me.

Please don't tell anyone
I have a tutor.

I mean,
I know you had one and all,

but I'm not ready for anyone
to know about mine.

I won't. I promise.

I understand.

Thanks, Sierra.

Look, you were right.

I was mad that I had to be here

and embarrassed to have a tutor.

But I get it.
You're just trying to help.

Geez, took you long enough
to figure that out.

I'm ready to try
things your way.

I really need your help.

Wow. This is like
a whole new McKenna.

Yep!

Cool, then let's get started.

Okay.

Okay.

On.

Should we read this one?

Actually, that's my book.

Oh. Are you into horses?

Kind of. I've actually always
wanted to ride, but, you know...

People in wheelchairs
can ride horses, can't they?

Yeah, they can, but...

Quit changing the subject
and let's get back to work!

Okay, let's try it again.

"Well, surely you must
know, ' said the Princess,

"that the queen watches
over me with a magic looking glass."

I can't. I don't get it!

It's okay. Don't be frustrated.

The truth is, you are really improving.
You're doing great.

Really? Yeah.

Thanks.

You know, if you wanted to do
something more challenging...

Okay.

Sorry.

Okay, let's start with this one.

You wanna try that?

We can move on to
something more challenging.

What was that noise?

I almost jumped
out of lightning!

You're awesome, Josie.

Thank you.

So, are you going to introduce me
to your secret awesome friend?

Toulane? What're you doing here?

Don't change the subject.

You're totally busted.

Physical therapy?
You lied to me!

Look, I'm sorry I lied.

But give me
a chance to explain...

Oh, I get it.

You've made a new
group of friends.

Sierra, and... whatever
your new friend's name is.

She's not my friend,
she's my tutor.

I mean, she's my friend and my tutor.
And her name is Josie.

You have a tutor?
Why didn't you tell me?

I was embarrassed, okay?

I would never keep
a secret from you.

Not cool, McKenna.

I have to go get ready for
the Regional Competition.

Have fun sitting
on the sidelines.

Only you would
want to walk the dog

while you're still on crutches.

Cooper! Cooper, Cooper!

At least I'm
getting an arm workout!

Hey, way to look
on the bright side.

And look, only two weeks from
Thursday until that cast comes off.

Is there any way
we can ask the doctor

if they can move it up earlier?

Because, I'm nervous I'm not
going to have enough time

to practice for
the qualifying meet.

We are gonna worry about
practicing without the cast

when it's time to
practice without the cast.

Which is
two weeks from Thursday.

Fine. Two weeks from Thursday,
but not one day later.

Oh, hey, listen... Cooper, sit.

Um... we need to talk about
the family camping trip.

Your dad found out he has a
conference that first week in June.

But he called the park to reschedule,
and there is an opening,

but it's next weekend.

And we just think
with your cast...

Mom, I am not letting my cast
keep me from camping.

You're sure?

Absolutely.

Great. This time, you and
Toulane can have your own tent.

You don't have to
share with the twins.

Um...

I think Toulane might
be busy that weekend.

Okay.

Just let us know.

Hey, can Josie come, too?

Yeah. That's a great idea.

Yeah, okay. I'm so glad you
guys are becoming friends.

I guess we are.
She's pretty cool, mom.

And she's like the smartest
person I've ever met!

I'm going to see
her mom tomorrow night

at my women in business meeting.

Maybe she and Josie's dad
will want to come along.

How does that sound?
Sounds great!

Yeah? Okay. Okay.

And you're sure you
and Toulane are okay?

Cooper! Cooper!

Yeah, I'm sure.

Toulane.

Toulane!

Can I talk to you?

Why? So you can lie to me again?

Look, our family camping trip
got moved to next weekend.

And, even though
we're in a fight,

it wouldn't be
the same without you.

You're like
a member of our family.

You still want me to come?

Of course! And Josie and her
parents are coming too.

And we can all hang out.

No, thanks.
I'm busy next weekend.

Fine. There wasn't enough room
in the tent for you anyways.

Geez, this is hard.

It must be even
harder for Josie.

I feel bad for her. How's she
gonna go hiking with us?

McKenna, did you forget

that you might have
trouble hiking, too?

Oh, no! I totally
didn't think about that!

Well, luckily for you,
the world's coolest dad did.

I can't believe you
found this place, dad.

Yep, and this path
is supposed to lead

to a pretty
amazing waterfall, too.

Told you I was
the world's coolest dad!

Don't push it.

Oh, wow.

So, what do you think?

I think I'm gonna
call mine thunder.

And thunder is gonna beat
lightning to the waterfall.

Whoa, whoa, wait, wait.
You wanna race me?

You bet.

First one to get to the waterfall
gets the first s'more?

You're on.

It's on. Okay.

You're gonna lose. All right.

You're going to lose.

Are you ready? I'm ready.

On your Mark. Get set. Go!

Whoo!

Whoo-hoo!

Oh, no.

Eat my dust!

You forgot one thing, thunder
always comes after lightning!

Can't beat the pro, McKenna.

Whoo-hoo!

Uh-huh! Uh-huh!

Beat you, girl.

Wow! You officially kicked butt.

Yeah, well, I mean, I have
had a lot of practice.

But yeah, yeah, I did kick butt!

But, who cares though, right?

Look at that.

Whoa.

Whoa.

Hey, Josie, come check this out.

On.

Don't feel weird.

It's okay.

I can see from here.

It is pretty amazing, huh?

Yeah, it is.

I mean, when I see
something like that,

I don't feel as different
from everybody else.

That waterfall is more
powerful than any of us.

Even the fastest, strongest
person in the whole world.

Don't worry,
girls, I'm almost there!

So, double or nothing?

It's on!

It is on!

Whoo!

Yeah! Gonna beat you!

Oh, no, you aren't!

You're gonna be sore tomorrow.
I'm just letting you know.

I'm already sore, yes.

Hi. Hey.

- Hi.
- You got everything you need?

Um... yeah. Yeah.

Good. Okay.

McKenna, I don't know what you
two did to your dad today,

but he's in our tent
making a sound like this...

All right. Good night, girls.

- Night, Mrs. Brooks.
- Night, mom.

Good night.

Okay, I can't believe
I ate five s'mores!

You know, the first one
was the best, though.

Nothing beats
the sweet taste of victory.

And since I beat you twice, the
victory was twice as sweet.

Okay, okay.

I'll stop.

Hey, I'm used to smack talk.

Toulane and I do it
all the time.

When we were talking
to each other, I mean.

I think this is the biggest
fight we've ever had.

Whatever. I'm tired
of obsessing about it!

Well, maybe you could try and put
yourself in Toulane's shoes.

Like, you know,
today in the wheelchair.

You got to see what it
was like in my shoes.

Well, I know her mom pushes
her a lot in gymnastics.

She watches her like
a hawk during practice.

That doesn't sound very fun.

Yeah. But just because
her mom is hard on her

doesn't mean she has
to take it out on me.

Can we not talk
about Toulane anymore?

Yeah, sure.
I'm kinda tired anyway.

I think I'll just close my eyes

and replay my moment of victory.

Oh, wait,
my two moments of victory.

Okay! Okay!
No more pillow fights.

I'll be watching you.

Night, Josie.

Good night, McKenna.

Sleep with one eye open tonight.

"During her short life
only one thing had troubled her,

"and that thing was 'the place'
she was to be taken to some day.

"The climate of India
was very bad for children,

"and as soon as possible
they were sent away from it,

"generally to
England and to school."

"She had seen other
children go away..."

"She had seen
other children go away,

"and had heard their
fathers and mothers talk

"about the letters
they received from them.

"She had known that she would
be obliged to go also,

"and though sometimes
her father's stories

"of the voyage
and the new country

"had attracted her,
she had been troubled

"by the thought that
he could not stay with her."

So, why do you think
she's being sent away?

Because it's not healthy
for her to stay in India,

because of the weather there.

Right. So, why is it such a
big deal for her to go away?

Because... well, first of all,
because she won't be with her dad!

So, what else do you
think might happen?

Well, I bet she'll
be nervous at first,

but then she'll end up
making new friends

and having
a new life in England!

You got it!

I got it! I can't believe it! I got it!
I really understood it!

I know.

Thank you so much, Josie.

I don't know how I could have
ever done it without you.

In gymnastics, Toulane and I
have this victory handshake.

Here, let me show you.

Okay.
Ready? You go boom, back...

Back. And then fist bump.

Fist bump.

That's really cool. I like it.

We should do that.
Yeah, we should.

Uh... so, I've been wanting
to tell you something.

You know how I've always
wanted to ride horses?

Well, I found a place that lets me do that.
It's called hearts & horses

and it's a special training center
for kids with disabilities.

That's awesome!

I know! I signed up
about a month ago.

Actually,

you kind of inspired me.

Really?

Yeah. I mean,
you're so fearless, you know.

And it's been
really cool so far!

So, the thing is,
my trainer thinks

that I'm ready to move from a
pony to a horse this Thursday.

It's a pretty big deal,
and I'd love it

if you could come
for moral support.

Not that I'm super nervous or anything.

I'd love to come.

Cool.

Wait, this Thursday?

That's when I'm
getting my cast off.

Oh, right, right...

Maybe you could move it
to the next day?

It would mean a lot to me
if you could be there.

Well, maybe...

No, I really can't.

With the Regional
Competition coming up,

I need all the practice
I can get.

Um... yeah, I... I get it.

Don't be upset. Can't you get
that this is a big deal for me?

Once I get my cast off, I can
finally do gymnastics again!

I'll finally be able to
get back to my real life.

Right. And I'm not
a part of your real life.

And I guess I'm
just your fake friend.

No, that's not what I said!

Can't you understand
how hard it's been for me,

being stuck in this library,
barely being able to move...

Believe me, I understand
what that's like.

Josie,
I didn't mean it like that!

It's fine.

I have to go.
See you around, McKenna.

Josie, wait.

Won't I see you
tomorrow for tutoring?

No.

I think we're
done with tutoring.

You've really gotten
the hang of reading.

So, you don't need me anymore.

I'll tell Mr. Wu, okay?

Your next math quiz
is next Tuesday. And...

Wait! Before you all trample
me like a herd of rhinos!

This is a list of book titles.

You can choose any
one of these to read.

And next month on the 15th,
you're gonna give an oral report,

demonstrating your understanding

of the book's
content and themes.

See ya tomorrow.

The 15th? That's the day
after the qualifying meet!

I know. Looks like we're
gonna be crazy-busy!

There's no way I can do it.

There's no possible way
I can do it!

It's gonna be okay.
I'm sure you'll be fine.

Thanks.

Bye. Bye.

The truth is, you are really improving.
You're doing great.

Thanks.

You got it!

I got it!

I don't know how I could have
ever done it without you.

Hello?

Um...

Hey, Josie. It's me, McKenna.

Ready for the big ride?

I'm really glad you came.

Hey,

that's what friends are for.

Real friends.

Right.

This place is pretty cool.

I know, it really is. I...

Easy, dusty. Easy now.

Hey, Josie.

Is that the horse
I'm going to be riding?

No. That's dusty.

He's a new horse.

New horses like dusty get
spooked at the littlest things.

You'll be riding snowflake.

Come here, snowflake. Come here, girl.
Come on.

She's much more experienced.

You're not going to fall.

I'll be right there with you
every step of the way.

Listen, Josie.

Coach taught us this cool breathing
exercise that might help you.

Take a deep breath,

and imagine you're breathing in blue
skies and breathing out gray ones.

So, ready? Here...

Blue skies in.

Gray skies out.

Thanks, McKenna.

I do feel a little better.

I think I'm ready.

It's okay. You can do it.

Come on, snowflake.

I knew you could do it.

Whoo! Yeah!

Look at you!

Go, Josie and snowflake!

You okay up there?

Whoo-hoo!

Bring her home!

I'm gonna call her snow.

Whoa!

Whoa, whoa, dusty!

Whoa!

Whoa, whoa, girl!

That's it, boy.

Come on now.

Whoa!
Easy, snowflake.

Let's go! Let's go! Let's go!

Come here, snowflake!

Easy!

Good girl. Easy, girl.

Good eye, McKenna.

I'm sure glad
your friend was here.

Me too.

Hey, McKenna.

What are you doing here?

Josie invited me.

I hope you're not mad.

I just thought that
you guys should talk.

On.

Uh... I'm gonna go help
cowboy Bob groom snowflake.

I'll be back.

Weren't you supposed to
get your cast off today?

Or was that another lie?

Look, I'm sorry
I lied about Josie.

I was embarrassed.

Okay? Having a tutor
made me feel like...

Like a loser.

Can't you understand that?

Maybe. But I don't understand
why you'd come here

instead of
getting your cast off.

What about making
the Regional Team?

Don't you care about
gymnastics anymore?

We're supposed to
be in this together.

Of course I still
care about gymnastics.

Just...

Josie really...

Right. Josie.

First you invite her
on our camping trip,

and then you showed her
our secret handshake.

I'm sorry, okay?
I was excited that day.

I finally understood
what I was reading.

I'm sure that sounds dumb.

It's not that dumb.

Toulane,

I'm friends with Josie.

But that doesn't mean she's
going to replace you.

We've been friends
since we were three.

You mean I've been kicking
your butt since we were three.

So, friends again?

Friends again.

So, ladies. With the Regional
Qualifying Meet just three weeks away,

I expect you to make
the most out of practice.

That means no fooling around.

That means focus.

Very nice, Sierra! Good job!

You've been working hard,
and it's really showing.

Look who it is!

McKenna! You got your cast off!

That's right.

Yes!

Thank you. Thank you.

Are you sure you wanna
do the dismount today?

Yeah. Okay.

I just don't remember
it being so high up.

Well, it's the first time you've
been up since the accident.

Of course you're gonna
be a little bit scared.

Just take it easy.

Come on.

I'm kinda freaking out.

Well, back off then.

Why don't we just go
work on the low beam?

No.

I only have a few more weeks.
I have to keep trying.

Okay.

Okay.

Come on down, McKenna.

Come on.

Why can't I do it, coach?

Well, you've healed physically,

but I think the mental healing is
just gonna take a little more time.

You can't keep putting so
much pressure on yourself.

But, if I don't make
the Regional Competitive Team,

everything I've worked for since I
was three will be done for nothing.

Oh, McKenna, I love that
you have big dreams.

You really have to
take it one step at a time.

All you can do is your best.

The future will
take care of itself.

Why do adults always
say stuff like that?

Because it's true.

Now go stretch and try not
to worry so much. Okay?

So, are you totally psyched
to get your cast off?

I guess.

I just don't know how
I'm going to do all this.

Get ready for the meet and
finish my report for Mr. Wu.

Either I'm going to
fail at the report,

or fall on my dismount again.

Or both!

It's too much for me
to handle on my own.

McKenna, it's okay, calm down.

Who said anything about
doing it on your own?

You sound just like my mom.

Hey, she's right.

You've got me,
Josie, your family.

Now, I don't want to see any
more tears from you, young lady.

Okay, now you really
sound like my mom.

It's kinda creepy.

"Despite spraining her ankle,

"American gymnast
Kerri Strug managed to finish

"her second required vault
in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

"Her heroic move clinched a gold
medal for the United States Team."

I remember watching Kerri Strug on TV.
It was amazing.

She must have been so scared,

but she still managed
to land that vault.

Come on. You can do it.

Come in.

We knew you wouldn't
want to break for dinner.

But you do need to carbo-load.

Thanks.

I never thought
I'd see you study

the night before
a big gymnastics meet.

Me neither. But I have
to finish this report.

And it was so cool
reading about other athletes,

it didn't even
feel like homework!

So, how are you feeling
about the meet tomorrow?

I still haven't stuck my
dismount on the beam.

Coach Isabelle says that
I'm still holding back.

But every time I go up there,
I think I'm gonna fall.

I can't...

I can't attack it
like I did before.

I guess I'm scared.

Well, what's the worst that
could happen at the meet?

I blow it and fall down.

And then I don't get to be
a Competitive Gymnast

like I've dreamed of
being my whole life.

I don't even know who I am
without gymnastics!

I do.

You are my wonderful daughter.

Come here.

And my wonderful granddaughter.

Yeah.

I have something for you.

Oh, my goodness.

It's beautiful.

Thanks, grandma.

This is for you to remember that

no matter what happens tomorrow,

you're always a star to us.

Always.

Please welcome
the Keystone Kips!

Flippant Gymnastics!

Panther Gymnastics!

Fantastic Gymnastic!

Bring your clap!

sh**ting Star Gymnastics!

And Performance Plus!

McKenna!

McKenna!

She sees us.

She sees us. Hi, baby!

- Hi, baby!
- Hi, baby!

Good afternoon to everyone.

And welcome to this year's

Regional Qualifying
Gymnastics Competition.

Floor Routine Competition
begins in 10 minutes.

All participating gymnasts
please report to the judges' table.

Whoa. She's good.

Yeah, Megan Murphy
is pretty much

a shoo-in for
one of the three spots.

Good luck today.

Thanks. You too.

All Uneven Bar Competition
begins in 10 minutes.

McKenna.

You came!

Of course I did.
I would not miss this.

How are you feeling?

You know how you said
that I was fearless?

I don't feel that way right now.

I know you can do this.

You were brave
that day at the ranch,

and you'll be brave
out there today, too.

Come here.

Good luck, okay?

McKenna, have you seen Toulane?
I can't find her anywhere.

Floor exercise starts in five
minutes and she's up second.

Don't worry. I'll find her.

Okay.

Toulane?

Toulane? What's going on?

I threw up.

Oh, no! Is it nerves?
Or are you sick?

Yeah, I'm sick.

I'm sick of my mom
wanting me to be

as good as my sister
before her stupid injury!

I'm sick of the pressure!
I'm sick of all of it!

Sometimes I wish I would break my wrist.
Or my ankle.

Then I'd have an excuse
not to do this anymore.

But what about going
to the Olympics together?

Don't you still want that?

Well, I know I got mad at
you for keeping a secret,

but I guess I have a secret too.

What is it?

I don't want to do this
kind of gymnastics anymore.

What? Why?

It's not fun for me anymore.

My mom never lets me forget that
all that matters is winning.

You're the only thing
keeping me here.

Remember when we watched the
rhythmic gymnasts practice?

The way they just let go,
and feel the music.

That's what I want to do.

Well, how about you go out there
and try to talk to your mom?

I can't talk to her now!

Why not? Because...

Because I just can't.

Look, I'm not sure
I want to go out there either.

I'm really scared
I'm going to fall.

But, I need to do this.

I guess we both do.

Together.

All right. Let's go.

Ready to work?

Ready to fly.

Oh! Are you all right?

Everything is fine.

Okay.

Then let's do it!

All right?

Next up is Toulane Thomas from
sh**ting Star Gymnastics!

Whoo! Go, Toulane!

Next up, McKenna Brooks from
sh**ting Star Gymnastics.

Next is Sierra Kuchinko
on the uneven bars.

Whoo! Go, McKenna!

Whoo!

Go, Sierra!

Whoo!

Next up, Megan Murphy
from Performance Plus.

Next up, Toulane Thomas
from sh**ting Star Gymnastics.

Score is 9.5.

So far, so good, McKenna.

You've done great!

Yeah, but what if
I mess up on the beam?

Oh, you're not gonna mess up on the beam.
Beam is your best event.

Go get 'em, okay?

Next up, on the balance beam,

McKenna Brooks from
sh**ting Star Gymnastics.

This is it.

Knock 'em dead.

Good.

Go, McKenna!

Blue skies in, gray skies out.

Yes!

We did it!

Whoo! Go, McKenna!

The three gymnasts to qualify

for the Regional
Competitive Team are...

Toulane Thomas from
sh**ting Star Gymnastics.

Yay!

Good for you!

Yeah!

Hey. Congrats.

Megan Murphy from
Performance Plus Gymnasts!

And taking the final spot

on the Regional
Competitive Team is...

McKenna Brooks of
sh**ting Star Gymnastics!

Oh, McKenna!
Oh, my god, McKenna!

Hey, Toulane. Wanna
come to the coffee shop?

Yeah, gimme five minutes.

You looked incredible out there.

I'm very proud of you, sweetie.

For someone who just made
the Regional Competitive Team,

you don't seem too excited.

I'm not.

What are you talking about? This
is what you've wanted for years.

No, mom. This is what
you've wanted for years.

And you never let me forget it.

Toulane, this is what
we both wanted for you.

Listen... no.

I'm not Tasha.

I know that.

I never thought you were.

You really want to
give all this up?

Yes, I do.

If it's what you want, Toulane.

Well?

I'm dropping off
the Regional Team.

My mom is telling
coach Isabelle right now.

She's not thrilled,
but she gets it.

Sierra was first alternate,
so this means

she'll make it.
And she deserves it.

And you can come
watch me kick butt

on the Rhythmic Gymnastics Team

any time you want.

Oh, I will.

Let's go get some lemon cake!

Hey, do you guys
wanna invite Sierra?

Sounds like she's in
the mood to celebrate too.

Sounds great.

Some people think that
athletes only define success

by whether they win or lose.

But the most successful athletes

know that winning or losing isn't
the only thing that matters.

They are able to balance sports

with all the other important
things going on in their lives.

That's why balance is an
important theme in this book.

Another lesson in
this book is that no one

achieves greatness
without help from others.

Everyone runs into trouble
and everyone gets scared.

But you can get
through any problem,

and turn even the worst days

into the ones that make
your dreams come true.

As long as you have the support

from your family
and your friends.

sh**ting Stars!

You've got to
believe in yourself

and know that
you can do anything.

But you also need to believe in
the people who believe in you.

Because they're the ones who
will always be there for you,

win or lose.