News Summary
The football game between Revere High School and Akron Garfield High School has been canceled due to health concerns among student-athletes. Although Revere expressed disappointment with the cancellation, two players from their team were confirmed to have hand, foot, and mouth disease, prompting the decision. Revere officials are considering options to recognize the canceled game as a forfeit win for their team and plan to reschedule related festivities. This cancellation is part of a growing trend in high school sports concerning health and safety amid ongoing infectious disease risks.
Revere, Ohio – High School Football Game Canceled Due to Health Concerns
The scheduled football game between Revere High School and Akron Garfield High School, set for Friday night at Joseph F. Pappano Stadium in Bath Township, has been officially canceled, citing health concerns among student-athletes.
Details of the Cancellation
Revere’s athletic director, Don Seeker, and Principal Doug Farris jointly announced the cancellation via social media. The decision came after Akron Garfield’s athletic director informed Revere that the Rams had decided not to participate in the game. Despite the cancellation, Revere officials reported their intent to proceed with the match, had it gone ahead.
Health Concerns Behind the Decision
Two players from Revere have confirmed cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease, a contagious viral illness common among children and adolescents. Although school officials confirmed there is currently no outbreak at Revere High School, the confirmed cases prompted health-related concerns that led to the game’s cancellation.
Revere’s Position and Response
Revere High School expressed disappointment with the decision to cancel the game, stating they were not in favor of its cancellation. They also noted that Akron Garfield was made aware of the health concerns but chose not to participate, a move that Revere officials dispute as unnecessary given the circumstances.
Future Plans and Rescheduling
In light of the cancellation, Revere administrators are exploring options to recognize the canceled game as a forfeit win for their team, the Minutemen. Additionally, school officials announced that Revere’s Hall of Fame induction and Youth Night festivities originally scheduled around the game will be rescheduled to a later date.
Context and Recent Similar Incidents
The cancellation follows a recent trend, as another game between Norton High School and Lawrence Northwest was also called off due to health issues among student-athletes. Both instances highlight ongoing concerns about health and safety in high school sports amidst infectious disease risks.
Season Records and Performance
Both Revere and Akron Garfield have started their seasons strongly, each holding a record of 1-0 after wins in their respective openers. Revere has a history of success, having advanced to the Division III playoffs in the past two seasons, underscoring their competitive level in Ohio high school football.
While the game’s cancellation is temporary, it emphasizes the importance of health and safety protocols in high school athletics. Revere officials and students will look forward to future competitions, once health concerns are fully addressed and cleared by health authorities.
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Additional Resources
- WKYC: Revere vs Akron Garfield Football Game Canceled
- Wikipedia: High School Football
- The Columbus Dispatch: Ben Christman Obituary
- Google Search: Ben Christman
- Buckeye Sports: Ben Christman Dies
- Google Scholar: Ohio State Football
- Richland Source: Ohio Boys Football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- On3: Details on Ben Christman’s Death
- Google News: UNLV Football
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