Brick Township High School defended itself against parents and adults who criticized the school and it’s wrestlers over the handling of an opportunity to showcase a wrestler with disabilities.
“During this year’s Brick vs Brick Memorial Wrestling match, there was a wonderful opportunity to showcase a very special young man, David Richards,” the district said. “Unfortunately, this opportunity was missed, due to the poor planning, communication and decision making on the part of adults from both schools and administration.”
What could have been a conversation about courage and acceptance turned into something negative, the district said.
“The students on both wrestling teams respect and admire the courage that David exhibits every day,” they added. “It is sad that misinformed adults on social media have questioned our wrestlers’ character and motives, for which they are completely wrong.”
Brick Township High School and its students have a long history of embracing exceptional students.
The Challenger league and many other fine organizations serving students with disabilities began at this school.
“Today, the entire Brick Township High School community celebrates David’s achievements and congratulates him on his Wrestler of the Week Honors,” the district said.
David got his shot to wrestle three days later against Middletown North.