As a senior at Coldwater High School, participating in our gymnastics team has been one of the most rewarding parts of my high school experience. The prospect of eliminating this incredible sport is not only personal to me but also detrimental to countless fellow students. Completing my high school journey with the full four years in gymnastics is a dream I cherish, and I'm not alone in this sentiment. Our team embodies dedication, spirit, and an unbreakable bond formed through our shared love for the sport. Furthermore, each year we contribute to the community through our 'Stick it for a Cure' meet, which raises significant funds for cancer patients. By assembling baskets and raffling them off, we've managed to make meaningful donations, creating awareness and hope. Losing our gymnastics program would mean losing this annual charitable event along with a cherished team tradition.

Gymnastics fosters not just physical strength but also discipline, resilience, and teamwork. It's an outlet for many students, a way to balance the pressures of school with the joy and fulfillment of sport. For many young girls, especially, it's an opportunity to shine, to express themselves, and to build confidence.

The gymnastics program is currently at risk due to a coaching shortage. This is simply not true. There is an enthusiastic, dedicated, qualified, CHS (former gymnast) alumni who has applied for this role and has been turned down. Losing this program marginalizes the efforts and dreams of passionate students and takes away the platform for us to grow and excel in an activity we deeply love. Athletics is a cornerstone of character building, and removing this option could profoundly affect students' morale and academic performance.

Let's show our school administration that our gymnastics team is not just a sport but a beloved and integral part of our school community. We must demonstrate our desire and support for this program to continue, allowing current and future students to experience its multitude of benefits.

Join me in urging the Coldwater High School administration to save our gymnastics team from being disbanded.  Respectfully, we seek all applicants to be seriously considered for the vacancy and presented to the board for hire. Together, we can ensure that this vibrant part of our school tradition continues to thrive.

Please sign this petition to help protect an essential and meaningful aspect of our school life.