High School Football Coach Fired After Post-Practice Baptism
A Georgia high school football coach came under fire after video circulated online showing him hosting a baptism after practice one day on school grounds. The coach has since lost his job, but for reasons unrelated to the religious event.
Tattnall County school superintendent Kristen Waters said that the man was fired from coaching at Tattnall County High School for an incident unrelated to the baptism after a Nov. 3 game, though no other details were provided. In a statement to WSAV, Waters explained that creating a safe environment for all is of highest priority.
"The safety and security of our students is paramount to Tattnall County Board of Education," Waters said. "Based on the outcome of an investigation into an incident that occurred Friday night, November 3rd while traveling after the football game, the District decided that it would seek a Head football coach that aligned with the best interests of the students."
"As to any other allegations, the District does not comment during ongoing investigations," the statement concluded.
Coach Isaac Ferrell brought in a pastor to conduct baptisms after practice on Oct. 23, according to WSAV. A video shared on the football team's Facebook page showed the pastor telling players to sit in a large tub full of water. "I baptize you now, my brother, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit," the pastor said before dunking the player underwater. The post stated that 20 players in total stepped forward to be baptized.
It remains to be seen how the religious intervention affects the players on the field.
