I'm not sure specifically as I don't know which 'the contest short story' you are referring to. It could be about a competition, perhaps a writing contest where the story itself is either the entry or about the experiences within the contest.
Well, for a YA short story contest, common requirements include a word count range, like 3,000 to 8,000 words. Also, the story might need to fit within a given genre or topic. And often, there are rules about originality and submission format.
First, have a clear understanding of the contest theme. Then, do extensive research if needed. Polish your writing, check for grammar errors, and make the story emotionally resonant with readers.
The story 'A Mighty Nice Man' might be about a man with very positive qualities. It could explore his character traits such as kindness, generosity, or integrity. Maybe it shows how he interacts with others in his community and the impact he has on their lives.
There might also be a coach or a trainer character. This person could play an important role in preparing the swimmers for the contest, providing guidance and motivation. They could also influence the swimmers' performance and their mental state during the competition.
Another theme could be pride. The participants in the contest might be driven by their pride, either to prove themselves or to uphold their honor. In the story, their actions and decisions during the contest could be influenced by this sense of pride.