Joseph Kennedy, previously a high school football coach, faced dismissal for leading prayers with his players. Recently, he won a settlement of $1.7 million from the Bremerton School District in Washington State. Alongside the significant settlement amount of $1,775,000, Kennedy was also granted a $5,304 stipend for his role as an assistant coach for the 2023 football season. Adding to this, he has been authorized to return to Bremerton High School to continue serving as an assistant coach.

The district’s statement highlighted the school community’s desire to move forward, focusing on offering the best education to their students. After nearly eight years of legal battles, this settlement finally allows both sides to put the matter behind them.

This development follows a significant Supreme Court ruling in June 2022, which favored Kennedy with a 6-3 decision. The court ruled that Kennedy had a constitutional right to kneel and pray on the field with student-athletes after games.

Feeling a sense of relief and gratitude, Kennedy expressed his satisfaction with the ruling, stating he felt vindicated and that his actions were justified. His habit of praying alone on the 50-yard line began in 2008, and gradually, his players started to join him. Kennedy also led brief inspirational speeches with spiritual undertones and team prayers in the locker room.

However, in 2015, several athletes expressed concerns to the school board, feeling they were being pressured to participate in Kennedy’s prayers. When Kennedy ceased the locker room prayers but continued praying on the field, he faced paid leave and non-renewal for the next season for violating district policies.

Despite these challenges, Kennedy persisted, fighting for his right to pray with his players. His determination led to the favorable Supreme Court ruling and the eventual settlement with the Bremerton School District.