As members of the Hampstead community, we have witnessed the transformative impact that Pete Smith has had on our local wrestling scene. Over his three-year tenure as THS Head Wrestling Coach at Topsail High School, he has not only been a figurehead in our sporting community but also a respected local business owner.

Under Mr. Smith's guidance, we've seen an impressive increase in parent involvement and support for our wrestlers both at home and away meets. His leadership has fostered a culture of accountability and inclusivity within the team that is unparalleled. This environment has resulted in significant growth in the number of wrestlers not only at THS but also within our youth program.

Mr. Smith's approach to coaching retains wrestlers who consistently demonstrate increased work ethic year after year - a testament to his ability to inspire and motivate young athletes. 

Of all of the current “complaints” against Coach Pete, the majority are from actions of other coaches or students themselves. Many of these “complaints” occurred months to years ago. If we are going to hold our wrestling program to such a high standard, it is only fair to hold our administrative staff, our BOE, our Athletic Directors, and students accountable as well. I can list page after page of infractions by multiple coaches and staff that are equivalent to or far exceed their complaints with Coach Pete. Additionally,  I can point to the success of Coach Pete and THS wrestling, whereas these other are programs are lacking. Are all sports programs held to this type of scrutiny and nitpicking? The answer is no, they are not. If they were, most coaches would not be employed for more than 1 season and all fundraising would come to a screeching halt. Perhaps we should consider WHY a Coach would have to consistently fundraise and further raise these questions to our local BOE and athletic directors who are failing our student athletes. 

We believe reinstating Pete Smith as head coach is essential for maintaining this positive trajectory for wrestling in Hampstead, NC. We urge the Pender County School Board of Education to reconsider their decision and reinstate Mr. Smith back into his rightful position where he can continue contributing positively to our community through sport.

Head Coach Pete Smith was named MEC Coach of the Year for the 2022-2023 wrestling season. 

The Topsail Pirates Wrestling Team compiled an impressive 34-5 record and qualified six wrestlers for the NCHSAA State Tournament in 2023 and has had back to back state champions in 2023 and 2024.

Please sign this petition if you stand with us in supporting Pete Smith's reinstatement as THS Head Wrestling Coach. #forpetessake