MHS fans asked for cooperation
By GERRY HENDERSON
Marion-Florence USD 408 Superintendent
Several weeks ago the leadership team of Marion-Florence USD 408 was directed by the board of education to develop supervisory measures designed to improve the ability of all basketball fans to enjoy games at the Marion High School gym.
The leadership team is composed of superintendent Gerald Henderson, business manager Martin Tice, and building principals Ken Arnhold, Tod Gordon, and Stan Ploutz.
Complaints from spectators over the past few years have centered on the interference caused by the near constant movement in the gym including the time when games are in progress.
In an attempt to address these and other concerns, the following note will be included in the program for all MHS and MMS basketball games and will be announced via the public address system.
"In order to improve the safety of both players and fans and to show basic respect for each other, all in attendance at basketball games are asked to comply with the following:
1. Citizens are invited to come to the gymnasium prepared to watch the games and thereby support our student athletes.
2. Spectators are asked to limit movement within the gym to "dead ball" times. Walking on the narrow edges of our basketball court while a game is in progress is dangerous for both fans and student athletes. Wait to leave the stands to go to the rest rooms, the concession area, or to exit the gym during a called time-out or during breaks between quarters, during halftime, or between games.
3. Children will not be permitted to play in the lobby or in the area just outside the main (east) entrance.
4. Continual movement in and out of the gym will not be permitted. All fans are invited to come to the gym, find a seat, and enjoy the games.
5. Adults accompanied by children are asked to supervise those children.
6. Smoking will not be permitted on school property.
Again, our purpose is to provide for the maximum enjoyment of ALL fans. Your cooperation is appreciated.
