Governor Slams Fenwick For Firing His Brother As Basketball Coach
CHICAGO (CBS) -- Gov. Pat Quinn lashed out Thursday at his alma mater, Fenwick High School, after his brother was fired as head basketball coach.
"My high school has lost its soul," Quinn said.
WBBM Newsradio's Regine Schlesinger reports the governor's brother, John Quinn, will remain on the faculty as a social studies teacher.
Quinn Rips Fenwick For Firing Brother
He's been at the Catholic high school in Oak Park for more than 30 years, and won a Golden Apple Award in 1992. Both Quinns are alums of the school.
The governor reacted angrily to news his brother won't be the basketball coach anymore, after serving 28 years in that role; and being named to the Chicago Catholic League Hall of Fame in 2009, and the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of fame in 2010.
"He's a Hall of Fame coach, with 469 victories. He is a coach who understands that the most important part of being a coach in a high school is to educate those who are under your command," the governor said. "He's a kind and gentle man who understands the importance of sportsmanship."
The school's athletic director said this week it was time for a change, but the governor thinks it's shameful.
"It's a devastating blow to my brother, John, and I think the administration there has let down the students, and the alumni, and shame on them," Governor Quinn said.
His brother led the team to its only state tournament appearance in 1998, and set a school record for wins in a season.
