Coach Phil McCrary has been more than just a basketball coach at Columbia High School in Decatur, GA; he has been a father figure, a mentor, and a pillar in our community. For many of us who have had the privilege of being coached by him, he is a guiding light who has always steered us in the right direction. Personally, he has been like a father to me and so many other students and athletes who have passed through the halls of Columbia High School over the years.

Recently, Coach McCrary was forced to resign over a disciplinary action involving one of his student athletes, punishment that many in our community believe was much too severe given the circumstances. The incident in question involved Coach McCrary disciplining a student athlete who attempted to bring a female back to their room while the basketball team was playing overseas in a basketball tournament. In a world where discipline and guidance are more necessary than ever, Coach McCrary's actions should be seen as those of a concerned guardian rather than as misconduct.

Throughout his career at Columbia High School, Coach McCrary has built one of the most successful high school basketball programs in the nation and history of Georgia, touching lives on and off the court. His dedication to his athletes and students, his contribution to Dekalb County’s prestige as he’s produced many globally successful athletes and business leaders, and his unwavering commitment to the moral development of countless young men and women have set him apart as not just a coach, but as an indispensable part of our community.

It is crucial that the school board understands the deep and resounding impact that Coach McCrary has had on his students and the community at large. His forced resignation does not only remove a remarkable coach from the school, but it is also a disservice to the many students who continue to need his guidance and wisdom.

We urge the superintendent and school board to reconsider the penalty imposed on Coach McCrary, bringing him back to the position where he has made such an enormous difference. His presence as a whole, particlularly at Columbia High School is invaluable, and his absence would leave a void that no one else could fill without a significant loss to the school's community and its students.

Please support us by signing this petition to reinstate Coach McCrary at Columbia High School and allow him to continue his mission of shaping and influencing the lives of the young men in our community.