Pearl River students celebrated the return of their recently dismissed coach Tuesday night, after the school board voted to rehire him.

“He belongs here,” said former player Ray Amato. “He loves all of us. We love him."

Players, students and parents protested and rallied for the return of the school’s football and baseball coach, Mike Oliva.

Despite leading his team to win a sectional championship in baseball for the first time in 33 years this past season, Oliva was let go in June.

While it is not clear why Oliva was initially let go, he tells News 12 he has since attended several constructive meetings, and he is excited to return to the field.

News 12 is told that players fought hard for his return because Coach Oliva helped students to become better players and individuals both on and off the field.