Chapter 12 Summary

Coaching Bernard Woodruff makes as many changes in Tom as it does in the boy. Bernard grows both in stature and mien, and Tom becomes a coach again, though by his own admission "a diminished one." As Bernard begins thinking of himself more as an athlete, Tom regains the self-image of being a coach. He starts writing letters to South Carolina schools seeking a position.

In conversation with Dr. Lowenstein, Tom discusses the boy's growth. The conversation tests the honesty between the psychiatrist and the rediscovered professional, the coach. Tom tries to explain the game of football to Lowenstein, but she refuses to understand.

In parting at the end of their session after Tom tells about the recipe contest and Lila's back issues of The Gourmet, Dr. Lowenstein says that it struck her as strange that the Wingo family would have a subscription...