Athletics missing a teachable moment

I'm probably in the minority on this one, but here goes. As an IHSA baseball umpire and former high school district administrator, I am amazed at the apparent missed opportunity here.

We always characterize high school athletics as an "extension of the classroom," where athletic officials and coaches are charged with teaching student athletes about more than just winning. Character and integrity instantly come to mind here.

Due to what appears, by all accounts, to be a clear misapplication of a rule, Plainfield North High School will be playing for the state championship instead of Fenwick, which by the IHSA's own admission, should have been declared the winner.

This was not just any game; it decided which team advances to the state final. I have to wonder why the Plainfield North coach and school administration are not stepping up and using this incredible "teachable moment."

As painful as it would be for the members of the Plainfield North football team, it would be a life lesson far more important than any game. They should offer to step aside so that Fenwick can move on. In the long run, the pride felt for doing the right thing will far outweigh that of any hollow victory.

Mike Field

Buffalo Grove