Rain During the Game
A free A2-level English story for language learners, readable online in English, with an option to listen via the free Storyteller app.
A sudden thunderstorm interrupts Callum and Fiona's soccer practice, sending the whole team running for cover.
Callum has soccer practice every Tuesday after school. He always arrives early to warm up. Today, the sky looks clear and bright. His teammates slowly arrive at the field.
The coach blows his whistle to start practice. Players run laps around the field first. Then they practice passing the ball in pairs. Callum passes with his friend Fiona.
"Nice pass," Fiona says, kicking the ball back. "You get faster every week."
"Thanks. I practice at home too," Callum says, smiling.
Halfway through practice, the sky slowly turns gray. Nobody notices the clouds at first. The players keep running and passing the ball. The coach checks his watch and frowns.
Suddenly, thunder crashes loudly above the field. Everyone stops and looks up at once. Thick, dark clouds now cover the sky. Rain starts falling hard and fast.
"Everyone, grab your bags!" the coach shouts. "Run to the gym, now!"
Players scatter and run toward the school building. Callum grabs his bag and water bottle. Fiona slips a little on the wet grass.
"Are you okay?" Callum asks, helping her stand.
"I'm fine, just wet," Fiona says, laughing.
They run together through the heavy rain. They reach the gym at last. Both are completely wet.
Inside, the team gathers near the doors. Water drips from their hair and jackets. The coach counts the players quickly.
"Everyone is here," he says, relieved. "Great job today, everyone."
Fiona squeezes water from her wet hair and grins. "That was such a fast run!"
Callum laughs and pulls off his soaked jacket. "Same time next week?" he asks.
"Same time next week," Fiona agrees, still smiling.
