Michael Zuppardo is an 18 year old autistic student at Howell High School located in Central Jersey. If there's one thing Michael is known for, its for his passion to join the Howell High Bowling team. Michael has been a respectful student in all four years of his attendance at this school, and is always seen to have a smile on his face. With next year being Michael's last year in high school, he's been very anxious to have his one shot at being on the famed bowling team at Howell. Three years ago, Mike tried out for the bowling team and unfortunately did not make it, but like the champion he is, Michael still kept the pursuit of his dreams alive. The following season he tried out again, yet again he did not make the team. Michael, along with numerous peers, felt that he did very well and was dissapointed with the decision. At this point, nothing was holding back the warrior inside Michael Zuppardo and he was determined to try out for the team again the following year.

Before the try-outs, Michael's mother emailed the bowling coach on October 16th of 2013 explaining the significance of Mike possibly making the team. Michael seeks to be a regular kid and to be able to be one of the cool kids. Being on the team wouldn't only help Michael enhance his bowling skills, but more importantly give him the ability to grow as a young autistic adult.

After getting no response from the bowling coach, Michael's mother called the school and begged for him to be on the team. With thought, Howell High officials allowed him to participate in practices, be a guest bowler in a couple of games, and he even recieved a team shirt. His mother then again got a phone call on Monday the 6th, a day before the first practice, saying Michael cannot bowl with the team nor can he practice since he was sought out to be a liability to the school since he wasn't on the roster. So here Michael is, happy until his mother had to break this news to him.

Mike still wants to try out next year to give it one last shot at the team. This kid's heart is unbelievable. Michael Zuppardo is not only making a statement for himself, but also for all autistic kids all across the nation.

Help us by signing this petition to get Michael Zuppardo on the Howell High School Bowling team.

To read the full story written by his mother, go to:

http://howell.patch.com/groups/opinion/p/autistic-howell-student-denied-a-time-to-shine