Ben Fridsma

To the Kenowa Hills Community and Supporters Unfortunately, the District has left me with no choice but to hire an attorney to challenge the findings contained in its report. I strongly believe the report contains numerous inaccuracies, mistakes, and statements that have unfairly damaged my reputation. I am especially concerned about the alleged MHSAA violations. I maintain that I did not knowingly violate MHSAA rules during my time in the program. I also have serious concerns that the MHSAA may not have been provided with all of the accurate and complete information necessary to make a fair determination. I believe it is critical that the correct facts are reviewed before any final decisions are made. I cannot simply accept a report that I believe contains false or misleading information and move forward while my name and reputation continue to be harmed. The proposed consequences, including restrictions that could prevent me from watching my own son play, make this even more difficult to accept. I want to be clear: I strongly disagree with the conclusions of the Kenowa Hills District investigation. I believe the investigation and the subsequent self-reporting to the MHSAA were influenced by individuals who had been working to remove me from my role as head football coach. My family and I do not deserve to have our names associated with allegations that we believe are inaccurate. We will continue to pursue the facts and seek a fair opportunity to respond to and correct the record. Much of the statewide attention and public criticism surrounding this situation could have been avoided. I believe the facts should have been thoroughly established before conclusions were shared that caused such significant damage to my name, my family, and our community. I have always cared deeply about the players, families, and community I have had the privilege to serve. I will continue to stand up for the truth and fight to clear my name from allegations I believe are false. Don Fellows