Please join our athletes in attendance at the Lehighton Area School Board meeting being held on Monday, October 27th, 2025, at 7:00 PM, in the District Board Room at 1000 Union Street, Lehighton, PA  18235 in support of our athletes.

Our children's love for softball is being overshadowed by the negative experience they are enduring under the current head softball coach at Lehighton High School in Lehighton, PA. We are deeply concerned about the way our children are being treated and the lack of proper softball instruction they are receiving. The coach’s focus appears to be more on herself, implementing unreasonable dress codes, bringing her newborn into the dugout during games and making the girls feel inadequate in their abilities, rather than teaching the fundamentals of the game or encouraging team spirit. 

As parents, we expect our children to learn valuable skills and sportsmanship from participating in school sports. The current coach's behavior is doing the exact opposite. Players have attempted to resolve a variety of situations for the past 2 years, starting with the head coach and her staff. They escalated the situations to the Athletic Director and then met with the Athletic Director and the School Principal.  All of these meetings have gotten no resolutions. With the number of situations rising and the added stress many girls do not want to participate in the Spring season if this coach is their leader. 

Our players deserve leadership that fosters their growth, both as athletes and individuals. A leader who brings positive reinforcement in coaching leads to better outcomes for student-athletes. When coaching becomes a negative experience, it diminishes the players' potential and love for the game. 

We require a coach who is not only knowledgeable and passionate about softball but also understands the importance of empowerment, mentorship, and encouragement. Our players should be the head coaches primary concern during practices and games. Coaches' attention should be on the abilities each of our players brings to the team in an effort to win and grow in the sport. Our children deserve to develop their skills in an environment that prioritizes their well-being, promotes skills and confidence.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for a change that will benefit not only current but also future athletes in our community. Let us ensure our children have the supportive and nurturing environment they need to thrive in sports. We call upon the school's administration to take immediate action to remove the head softball coach and find a replacement who truly champions the values of respect, positivity, and effective teaching.