September 10, 2009
Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Executive Director Marty Hickman announced on Thursday, September 10 that all levels of the North Chicago High School football program will be suspended from competition until further notice. The North Chicago team and fans were involved in a fight during the varsity contest against visiting Simeon High School on Friday, September 4. The incident occurred with five minutes remaining in the first quarter. Simeon led 21-0 at that juncture and was declared the winner via forfeit, as the game was called by officials following the incident.
The North Chicago teams will be allowed to continue to practice, but will forfeit all contests against Vernon Hills scheduled to be played at North Chicago this weekend. North Chicago administration will meet with the IHSA early next week to discuss the remainder of the football program’s 2009 season.
“There is no place in high school athletics for the actions that occurred at the football contest between North Chicago and Simeon,” said Hickman. “Sportsmanship is at the forefront of the IHSA’s mission and this is a very serious incident that necessitated serious consequences.”
Simeon High School will be allowed to continue its season, however, several individual players have been identified for their roles in this altercation and will ultimately be disciplined.
“Hopefully, this troubling incident will serve as a teachable moment for both of these schools, as well as all the other student-athletes, coaches and fans who enjoy high school athletics in Illinois,” added Hickman. “We can’t change what took place last week, but those who enjoy the privilege of participating in interscholastic activities must understand they are obligated to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the ideals of good sportsmanship.”