Rolling Meadows High cancels game over new-floor odor
The Rolling Meadows boys varsity basketball team will have to wait awhile longer to christen its new gym floor.
After consulting with Barrington varsity boys coach Bryan Tucker, the Rolling Meadows administration canceled Tuesday's Mid-Suburban League crossover game.
There was an odor that was detectable when one walked into the gym.
“I had some of the players come to me saying that they were lightheaded and dizzy,” Tucker said.
“We had been in the gym since 5 p.m. I needed to make a decision to protect the kids. I know it's unfortunate to cancel the game, but it had to be about safety.”
“I respect coach Tucker's decision,” said Mustangs varsity coach Kevin Katovich. “You have to do what's best for your kids.”
The boys sophomore game was played, and the host Mustangs won 35-32 in overtime.
The new floor was finished in mid-December and received a final sealing Dec. 16, according to Rolling Meadows assistant principal for student activities Lisa DaRocha.
“We had underlevel boys basketball practice on the floor earlier in the afternoon (Tuesday),” DaRocha said. “I wasn't aware of any problems. Coach Tucker had concerns and he presented them to me. The last thing we want to do is to take light of his players' concerns about not feeling well.
“We received clearance from the administration and from the central office. We thought we were ready to go. Right now it is a cancellation. Barrington athletic director Mike Obszust and I will talk Wednesday to see what we can do about a reschedule.”
On Friday night, the Rolling Meadows underclass and varsity wrestling teams are scheduled to host Wheeling. On Saturday, the girls varsity basketball team is scheduled to host Wheeling at 5:30 p.m.
The boys varsity basketball team is scheduled to host Elk Grove on Jan. 21.