My name is John Neme and I am a sophomore at Everest Collegiate. I have a huge passion for tennis, but unfortunately I’ve never had the chance to play for a team because my school does not offer it. I’ve played many other sports, but none compare to the love I have for tennis. Tennis is the one sport I truly care about my performance in. I push myself when I lose a point and celebrate when I win, but I never once feel like quitting. Even on my worst days, tennis brings me joy. This summer, I had the chance to practice with the Clarkston boys tennis team, and it was an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world. The sense of belonging and team spirit I felt showed me how much I would love to be part of their team. I believe it is unfair for a student like me to lose the chance to play the sport I love simply because of my school’s position. This isn’t about entitlement — it’s about wanting the same opportunity as other student athletes. Right now, the MHSAA requires students to take and pass 66% of their classes within the school they’re enrolled in to be eligible for high school sports. Because of this rule, even though my school does not offer tennis, I’m not allowed to play for a nearby school that does. The only option is if schools agree to a co-op agreement. Unfortunately, Clarkston cannot enter a co-op with Everest because of their large enrollment size. That leaves me, and many others in similar situations, without any chance to compete in the sport we love. By signing this petition, you can help raise awareness and show that every student deserves a fair chance to play.