We, the Johnston High School Girls Softball team, are writing and filing this petition in hope that our school committee will reconsider their vote which took place on Tuesday, February 14, 2017, at which time the committee voted to not re-appoint our Johnston High School Girls Softball Coach, Mr. Steven Day.

We are not sure how many of you have ever met Coach Day, or have had the pleasure of witnessing how well he works with all of us, the players, on the team. Although we may not always agree with the coaching decisions made on the field, we do all agree that Coach Day is dedicated and committed to our team and cares about all our players. Coach Day treats us like family ad is always willing to put in extra time and effort to ensure the success of the TEAM, and the betterment of all players. Coach Day's commitment to the success and future of our program is clear as he can often be found providing new drill plans and ideas to the Ferri Middle School Girls Softball coach, Mario Nasisi. He helps to build upon the foundation by introducing new drills to Mr. Nasisi in order for him to bring them forward to his team. Although Coach Day does not get compensated for providing this, he knows that a successful high school program begins at the middle school.

Our JHS Girls Softball Team has had success under Coach Day's leadership. Our team has reached the playoffs the past 2 seasons and we were all looking forward to another successful year under his leadership. We all strongly believe that changing our coach at this time will have a detrimental effect on the team and the future of Johnston's softball program. In addition, a change in our coach could impact the future of some of our team members that are looking to play in college. The school committee's decision will affect our future.

Coach Day has demonstrated his commitment to the program and more importantly to all of the players of our team. In addition, Coach Day has demonstrated his knowledge for the game which has translated to our success on the field. Please help to spread the word and get our coach back! We can make a difference, and our team will not rest until Coach Day is back on the field where he belongs. This town is all about Panther Pride, and that is not letting a fellow Panther down when he needs it the most. Thank you for your support and please spread the word!

-JHS Girls Softball