We, the concerned citizens of the FLOW District are calling for the immediate dismissal of High School Coach Craig Nichols. His behavior has been emotionally abusive and unbecoming of a high school coach for far too many years. While we understand the rigors and challenges that come with coaching, we can no longer turn a blind eye to the detrimental impact his coaching approach has on the players. 

Under Coach Nichols' leadership, players come home from practice feeling demoralized and disheartened rather than empowered and challenged. The Ramapo Boys JV Basketball Team deserves a coach who leads with integrity, not one who stoops to manipulation to achieve results.

We want to be explicitly clear that the reason for this petition has nothing to do with playing time for any player, but about the well-being and development of all players under his guidance.

We firmly believe that effective coaching extends beyond the court and involves nurturing the mental and emotional well-being of developing 15 and 16 year olds. Every player deserves to feel valued, respected, and encouraged to reach their full potential in a safe coaching environment. To be clear, we have no issue with tough and demanding, "old-school" coaches, however, Coach Nichols' actions are something very different.

Coach Nichols has not only ruined many boys' love for basketball but also damaged, in both past and present, the potential pipeline of players, many of whom were and are reluctant to play under his leadership. Coach Nichols continually sets his players up for failure and them blames them when they fail as opposed to respected coaches that foster growth and development.

Coach Nichols' conduct is contrary to the National Standards For Athletic Coaches which emphasizes on creating a healthy and positive environment (source: SHAPE America). It's crucial that we protect our children from such damaging experiences that can have long-term effects on their mental health (source: American Psychological Association).

We urge Ramapo High School Administrators to take immediate action by dismissing Coach Craig Nichols. Sign this petition if you stand with us in demanding change for better sportsmanship and healthier athletic programs at Ramapo High School.