Georgia School District Defends Coach in Church-State Dispute

Written by Don Byrd
Accused of violating the separation of church and state by — among other things — requiring his players to attend pre-game meals featuring religious messages, Walker County (GA) high school football coach Mark Mariakis is being defended by school officials who claim his conduct is lawful and that future events will not feature religious messages.

High School Coach Accused of Church-State Violations

Written by Don Byrd
A football coach in Georgia led the team in prayer before and after games, held pre-game meals at a church where a preacher promoted Christianity, pressured his players to attend a Christian camp, and belittled the faith of some team members, according to a letter sent to Walker County schools by the Freedom From Religion Foundation.