A girl's mother once asked us if we would like her daughter to drop state solo (15 or so were entered) so that I would have a better chance of qualifying--I hadn't qualified at regionals. My mom said "your daughter can twirl. If my daughter qualifies it will be on her own merits." I ended up qualifying AND placing ahead of the girl who offered to drop. These were good people offering to drop, but it was more important for my self-worth that no one backed out for me. My mom and coach taught me an important lesson from this experience: No one has to do any less for you to do well, and if your best falls short, keep working.