May 27, 2026- Summerville Parks & Recreation: City of Summerville, GA

 

As parents, families, and community members, we trust our recreation programs to be a place where children feel safe, encouraged, respected, and supported- even when it doesn't benefit the trophy shelf.

Youth sports should teach teamwork, confidence, discipline, kindness, and good character. They should create memories that children carry with them for the rest of their lives- for the right reasons.

 

Unfortunately,  many families have become increasingly concerned about the lack of clear expectations for conduct and accountability within our recreation programs. Concerns are being swept under the rug with reports not being filed properly to minimize accountability. When inappropriate behavior, hostility, intimidation, favoritism, retaliation, or lewd conduct are dismissed on good faith reporting, the matter will not be handled properly. It damages trust within the community and takes away from the positive environment our children deserve.

 

This is bigger than one disagreement or one incident. This is about setting a standard for how the adults conduct themselves around children and families in spaces that are meant to serve the public.

 

I am gathering signatures for a petition requesting the adoption of a formal Sportsmanship & Conduct Policy for our local recreation department and facilities.

 

The goal is simple:
• Protect children and families
• Promote respect and accountability
• Establish clear behavioral expectations
• Encourage professionalism from staff, coaches, volunteers, and spectators
• Ensure concerns are handled fairly and consistently while being documented for record
• Restore trust in the programs that so many families rely on

 

No parent should feel uncomfortable bringing their child to a public recreation facility. No child should be exposed to toxic sportsmanship and coaching behavior in environments designed to help them grow.

 

This petition is not about attacking individuals. It is about demanding better standards for the entire community moving forward.

 

If you believe our children deserve a positive, respectful, and family-focused recreation environment, please message me or comment below to sign the petition.

 

Real change only happens when communities are willing to stand together and speak up.