On a fateful day under the supervision of Coach Patrick Malone, a tragedy unfolded that has forever impacted the lives of not only our beloved August Borden but also the community of Tuscumbia, Alabama. August, a promising 15-year-old athlete with dreams and ambitions, ended up with life-threatening injuries during the time Coach Malone was supposed to be overseeing the Deshler football team's practice. This horrific incident left August with two blown orbital fractures, a sinus cavity fracture, a skull fracture, and a severe concussion, from which he slept for nearly two full days. In a desperate race against time, August had to be airlifted to Birmingham hospital after resuscitation.

This heart-wrenching event demonstrates a severe lack of oversight and accountability by Coach Malone. Just 71 days following the incident with August, another alarming occurrence unfolded: a brawl erupted in the locker room, yet again, Coach Malone was absent and not there to intervene or provide a sense of safety for the players. This pattern of negligence is deeply concerning and underscores the need for immediate action to restore safety and integrity within the Deshler football program.

It is not just the physical safety that is at stake, but the moral responsibility to hold each team member accountable for their actions. Under the guidance of Coach Malone, there is a pervading sense of unaccountability and lack of structure, which has led to repeated incidents that compromise the safety and well-being of every player on the team. The community demands change and a commitment to safeguarding our youth.

By signing this petition, you are supporting the effort to remove Coach Patrick Malone from the Deshler football program. It is time to bring in a leader who prioritizes the safety and well-being of our children, and who demonstrates the competence necessary to lead and oversee a sports team that promotes not only sporting excellence but also a safe and supportive environment. Please lend your voice for the future of Deshler football and the safety of our young athletes. Sign this petition to make a change for the better.