## **Coach Joe Kennedy's Story Comes to Life in New Film, 'Average Joe'**
Coach Joe Kennedy, the former assistant football coach whose religious liberty case went all the way to the Supreme Court, is the subject of a new film called "Average Joe." The film, which hits theaters on October 11, tells the story of Kennedy's seven-year legal battle with the Bremerton School District over his refusal to stop kneeling and praying mid-field after each game.
Coach Joe Kennedy's Story Comes to Life in New Film, 'Average Joe'
### **True Story of Faith, Marriage, and Victory**
"Average Joe" not only delves into Kennedy's legal battle but also explores his personal struggles, including his troubled upbringing in foster care and the strain the legal battle put on his marriage. Kennedy's wife, Denise, played by Amy Acker in the film, initially struggled to understand her husband's actions, leading to a near-breakup of their marriage. However, their faith in God ultimately brought them back together.
Coach Joe Kennedy's Story Comes to Life in New Film, 'Average Joe'
### **Kennedy's Journey of Faith and Redemption**
Before becoming a coach, Kennedy was a Marine for 20 years. After retiring, his marriage was in tatters, and he turned to God for help. Two weeks later, he was offered the assistant coaching job, despite having no football experience. Kennedy made a covenant with God to always give thanks on the field after every game, a decision that would later lead to his conflict with the school district.
Coach Joe Kennedy's Story Comes to Life in New Film, 'Average Joe'
### **Legal Battle and Supreme Court Victory**
When Kennedy's contract was not renewed after he refused to stop praying, he sued the school district with the help of legal group First Liberty. His case went all the way to the Supreme Court, where he won a 6-3 decision in 2022. Kennedy's victory was hailed as a major victory for religious freedom, effectively overturning the Lemon test that had previously restricted religious expression.
Coach Joe Kennedy's Story Comes to Life in New Film, 'Average Joe'
### **Legacy of Courage and Inspiration**
Kennedy's story is one of courage, faith, and redemption. Despite facing adversity at every turn, he never gave up on his beliefs or his marriage. His victory in the Supreme Court has inspired others to stand up for their religious freedom.
### **Impact on Religious Liberty**
Kennedy's case has had far-reaching implications for religious liberty. It has emboldened other individuals and organizations to fight for their right to express their faith openly. The film "Average Joe" is a powerful reminder that even the most ordinary people can make a significant difference in the world by standing up for what they believe in.
