Our high school cheerleading experience is currently marred by the inappropriate conduct of our coach, who consistently displays a lack of empathy, and lacks the ability to nurture talent and potential. This situation warrants immediate intervention. 

Every year, approximately 400,000 student athletes participate in cheerleading in the United States (Source: National Federation of State High School Associations), making it one of the major avenues for physical, social, and leadership development amongst students. Our coach's behavior impedes this development and has significant implications for student morale.

As a former cheerleader of this program for four consecutive years, I am standing up on behalf of all past and present athletes. The current coach has created an environment that negatively impacts the physical and mental well-being of team members. Instances of inappropriate comments regarding athletes bodies, breaches of privacy, unsafe training practices, and unprofessional conduct have contributed to a toxic team culture.

Over time, these issues have led to a noticeable decline in participation within the cheerleading program, highlighting the damaging effects of ineffective leadership. Her behaviour has led to the termination of the competitive cheer team. This occurred due to disinterest in her own athletes after having to endure her coaching. Not to mention the resignation of two assistant coaches, who took a stand together. Her coaching has squashed the passion and love for cheer for so many young individuals. Addressing these concerns is essential to ensure a positive and supportive environment for current and future athletes. 

We believe that coaching should foster a safe, positive, and productive learning environment, which in turn, not only develops sporting skills but also instills a sense of camaraderie, displays good sportsmanship, and builds character. However, under our current coach's supervision, these values which are supposed to be foundational to any high school sporting team, are compromised.

As such, it is essential for the school administration to hold our cheer coach accountable and take necessary action for the betterment of the student community.

We, therefore, appeal to the school authorities to investigate this matter and remove her from the head coach position. By signing this petition, we can help protect the integrity of our cheerleading team and foster a more encouraging and productive environment for current and future student athletes.

Please lend your voice to this cause and help foster positive change in our school community. Sign the petition today.

This petition has been signed by 26 total previous/current cheerleaders so far who were/are under Sunderland's coaching. Many of which are choosing to remain anonymous due to fear of retaliation.