Rotarians hear of 40+ years of Big Ten history

Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delaney dropped by the Barrington A.M. Rotary Club meeting Thursday, the guest of his predecessor Wayne Duke.

With Delaney having served 21 years already, and Duke for 20, the history of the last four decades of the conference was contained in the room at Chessie's/111 Grille restaurant.

Delaney spoke about the evolution of the Big Ten and about how its coaches remain dedicated to making their players' experience one of sportsmanship learning.

He also answered questions about the possibility of extending postseason football playoffs in the Big Ten, saying it was unlikely as they would probably expand to a length that would negate the regular season.

Several Rotary members wore Big Ten colors in honor of the occasion, with former Barrington Mayor Ron Hamelberg leading the group in singing the Illini fight song.