BREMERTON, WA – The Kitsap County high school football coach who was fired in 2015 for holding post-game prayers with his players returned to the field on Wednesday night.

Bremerton assistant coach Joe Kennedy sued the school district in a case that went to the Supreme Court last year.

They ruled in his favor, saying his prayers were protected under the First Amendment.

KOMO reports the Bremerton School Board settled with his attorneys for over $1.7 million.

Kelly took part in his first practice of the season this week.

He’ll join Bremerton for his first game in eight years on September 1.