News Summary
The high school football game between Revere and Akron Garfield has been canceled due to confirmed cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease among Revere players. Despite Revere’s readiness to play, Akron Garfield opted to withdraw for health safety. This decision also impacts other scheduled events at Revere. The school insists there’s no wider outbreak, but the situation raises ongoing health concerns affecting youth sports.
Revere, Ohio – High School Football Game Canceled Due to Health Concerns
The highly anticipated high school football game between Revere and Akron Garfield, which was set to take place on Friday night at Joseph F. Pappano Stadium in Bath Township, has been canceled due to health-related issues. The cancellation comes after two Revere players confirmed cases of hand, foot, and mouth disease.
In a joint statement released on social media, Revere athletic director Don Seeker and Principal Doug Farris explained that Akron Garfield’s athletic director notified them of the decision to withdraw from the game. Despite the confirmed cases of illness, Revere expressed their intention to proceed with the game. They also stated that Akron Garfield had been informed of the health concerns prior to their decision not to play.
Revere officials have indicated that there is currently “no outbreak” of hand, foot, and mouth disease at Revere High School, although the confirmed cases prompted concerns. The school’s administrators are now exploring the possibility of having the canceled game recorded as a forfeit win for the Minutemen, as they disagreed with the cancellation decision.
Details Surrounding the Cancellation
The decision to cancel comes amid a backdrop of heightened health concerns impacting youth sports. Revere was prepared to play, believing they could manage the situation appropriately. In recent weeks, this is not the first cancellation due to health issues; another game between Norton and Lawrence Northwest was also called off for similar reasons.
Both Revere and Akron Garfield have begun their season with a 1-0 record, having each won their respective season openers. The Minutemen have made a strong showing in recent years, having advanced to the Division III playoffs in each of the last two seasons.
Impact on Upcoming Events
In addition to the cancellation of the game, Revere’s planned Athletic Hall of Fame ceremony and Youth Night festivities, which coincide with football season, will also need to be rescheduled.
As the situation develops, student-athletes, parents, and fans of both teams will be awaiting updates regarding future games and any potential effects on the season’s schedule. Revere remains steadfast in addressing the health concerns while looking ahead to maintain their athletic programs’ competitive spirit.
Background on Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness often seen in young children but can also affect adults. Symptoms may include fever, mouth sores, and a rash, and while the illness is usually mild, it can lead to discomfort and a need for temporary isolation, especially in communal activities such as sports.
Maintaining health and safety within school sports programs is a constant priority for athletic directors and coaches. This cancellation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges educational institutions face in keeping student-athletes healthy while promoting participation in sports.
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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
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
