A high school football coach in Georgia was terminated from his positions shortly after he held a baptism on school property for some of his players. Although the superintendent has indicated that the termination was not directly related to the baptism, it appeared that the baptism may have had an impact as the district stated they were seeking a new head football coach that suited the best interests of the students. The Freedom From Religion Foundation had criticized the coach prior, stating that the incident of baptizing players on school grounds was a “constitutional violation” and that the district was interfering its football program with religious activities.
The superintendent made the announcement earlier this week, indicating that the coach was dismissed for an incident following a football game which occurred after the incident of baptizing the players using school grounds. The decision provoked a stir in the local community, as one parent expressed being happy their son partook in the baptism. However, the Freedom From Religion Foundation underscored that it is illegal for public school coaches to integrate their religious views or activities with the team. Following the announcement of the coach’s termination, the Foundation expressed their support for the decision and emphasized the importance of ensuring that future coaches would adhere to their constitutional responsibilities.
The termination of the football coach came after weeks of controversy due to the previously held baptism for the players at the school. According to the Freedom From Religion Foundation, such actions are unconstitutional, and the district should refrain from integrating religious activities into its athletics program. Although some parents and community members expressed their support for the coach’s actions, the district stated that decisions regarding appropriate religious activities were fundamental to promoting the safety and security of all students.