I don't mean to be cynical, but this is a HUGE problem in Tuscola and has been for several decades. I think it would be fair to make the team forfeit and think about what they are doing during the sport's season. Unfortunately parents don't punish the superior athletes when it comes to underage drinking or tobacco use.

Posted by tuscolanative on November 19, 2007 at 10:51 AM

I am a little concerned that someone would like to see an entire team punished for the actions of the few. I do agree that action should be taken for the individuals involved, however those players who did not do anything wrong should not be punished by having to "forfeit" the game.

Posted by TuscolaWarriorMom on November 19, 2007 at 11:51 AM

It would be naive to think Tuscola is the only town that has an underaged drinking problem. The only reason you don't hear about it more is they don't get caught. I agree with WarriorMom~ don't punish the rest of the team for the poor decisions of others. It would be wise to gather all the facts before making hasty judgements. We're still proud of our Warriors and will be there Friday with a supportive presence.

Posted by WarriorAunt on November 19, 2007 at 12:25 PM

It would be very naive to think that Tuscola is the only town around with a underage drinking issue. However student athletes sign training rules in many schools and these rules need to be upheld. After all, student athletes are supposed to set an example for their fellow students and to represent their schools and community's. I agree maybe not all should be punished however the ones that are guilty should be. No matter what their names are and the caliber of player they are.

Posted by sportsmom on November 19, 2007 at 12:43 PM

I agree with WarriorMom and Warrior Aunt. Why should this team forfeit the upcoming game because of a mistake made by others? Poor judgment was made by these kids and I'm sure they will face the consequences. I only hope that their community as well as the surrounding communities will keep in mind that they are kids and they do make mistakes. I for one, will be supporting the Tuscola Warriors and all the participating athletes on Friday!

Posted by UnityRocketMomof3 on November 19, 2007 at 12:46 PM

Why forfeit the game. Why punish the other players because some STUPID kids screwed up. What are they thinking, they have a chnce of a life time and need to drink a beer. i bet there are some mommys and daddys trying to cut some deals. I've dealt with Coach Wienke alot in the last 3 years and coached against hime many times. I bet there is no deal in his mind. There are things people don't like about the Tuscola program but he expects his players to act like fine young men.

Posted by JustLooking on November 19, 2007 at 1:07 PM

Agreed with WarriorMom, WarriorAunt and others. It sounds as though not every member of the team was caught drinking. So why punish the entire team for the actions of a few? Applause to Coach Wienke for making the undoubtedly very difficult decision he made. Clearly he leads by example. A very unfortunate situation for those who have worked so hard to come so far.

Posted by UnityRocketAlum on November 19, 2007 at 1:37 PM

How many players and cheerleader and band members and poms are we talking

Posted by JustLooking on November 19, 2007 at 1:40 PM

Not to be too cynical about this, but in a town this size, everybody knows what's going on -- at least everybody on that team knew. Unless these kids got caught because a teammate told somebody what was going on, I think they're all responsible. Obviously, winning two state titles in a row wasn't as important as we all thought or they would have acted differently.

Posted by GoWarriors on November 19, 2007 at 1:54 PM

As someone who graduated from Tuscola, I wonder if it will be handled in the usual Tuscola way. If you have the right name, there will be no punishment. It will be the kids who don't have the big Tuscola name who will pay the price for everybody. But then again, we'll see how many football players are missing.

Posted by TitanMom on November 19, 2007 at 2:03 PM

Once all of the players involved are suspended, there won't be any good players left. This makes me happy, because I'd rather see Tuscola get defeated than forfeit. Too bad they can't take away last year's title, too.

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 2:05 PM

The philosophy that no one can be punished unless everyone is punished is a tired one.

The coach's comment is a good one: Some people were thinking only of themselves, and they were caught. They should face the consequences.

Posted by Wenalway on November 19, 2007 at 2:08 PM

I am sure there were kids who knew this was going on and warned others not to participate, but that is the end of their control in the matter. What other people choose to do or engage in is in those people's hands. Why should kids that had nothing to do with it pay the price. They are already going to pay by those players not being there. I can no more control the things my adult friends do than they can their friends.

Posted by WarriorFan on November 19, 2007 at 2:10 PM

Ironmike--With all due respect, why should last year's title be taken away for an infraction that just occurred?

Posted by UnityRocketAlum on November 19, 2007 at 2:23 PM

Because there is a long history of these sorts of infractions. Will someone have to die in a hit-and-run accident due to the team's irresponsibility before someone wakes up and takes notice? Seems like something more than a little wrist-slapping of the worst players on the team needs to be done.

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 2:27 PM

For better or worse to be a part of community or a sports team means that the (good and bad)choices of a few do affect all members involved. The kids who were not invoved in Saturday night's activities are already being punished by all this controversy no matter what happens with Friday's game.

Posted by TuscolaGradMom on November 19, 2007 at 2:29 PM

You all need to stop and look back at your high school years. I am sure most of us would have to admit that we drank when we were in high school. Maybe we didn't get caught, but most of us are guilty of drinking. These kids made a huge mistake and they are going to have to pay for that. But it is not fair to punish the rest of the team for the actions of a few. Those other boys will definately get their chance to show Coach Weinke what they can do. I wish all the boys luck at State. Don't let all the negativity affect you. Go out there hold your heads up high and play the best game you can. Tuscola fans will be at Memorial Stadium to support our WARRIORS!!!!!!!!!

Posted by lovethewarriors on November 19, 2007 at 2:31 PM

In regards to my last post, excuse me. I meant drunk driving, not hit-and-run.

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 2:33 PM

I am sure that those involved do not consider being kicked off their team a "wrist-slap", although that must be a new term... and there seems to be a lot of opinions while there still are no facts. We do not know what all is going to happen. I think it is safe to say, no matter what their last names are, that Coach Wienke will not be playing anyone in a game if they were guilty of drinking.

Posted by WarriorFan on November 19, 2007 at 2:37 PM

OK, lovethewarriors, you're saying you drank (illegally) when you were in high school, so it's OK that kids are doing it now (illegally)? No wonder these kids are in trouble.

Posted by GoWarriors on November 19, 2007 at 2:39 PM

that is not what i meant, i am just saying that before you go bashing all the kids, you need to think about what you did as a kid and have a small amount of compassion. No they should not be drinking and definately driving, but does it need to be spread all over the news and papers. They made mistakes and will be punished, but stop talking trash about them. Let the states attorney, coash and their parents take care of it.

Posted by lovethewarriors on November 19, 2007 at 2:43 PM

In response to those who comment that the whole team shouldn't suffer because of a few individuals who screwed up.... I'm not sure of the exact facts, but the rumors are saying almost ALL of the football players were there--and only a handful were not there. If that's the case, they should have to forfeit.

Posted by ColaFan on November 19, 2007 at 2:45 PM

Applause, applause, applause to Coach Wienke for saying what he said. I am not bashing these kids, but they need to know that there are consequences for their actions. This could have been a lot more serious if someone had been hurt by one of them drinking and driving. They may have to remember what they did to their team mates by getting suspended before THE big game, but in twenty years it won't be as bad as if they had to remember killing one of them by driving drunk.

Posted by warriormom2 on November 19, 2007 at 2:47 PM

If you don't publicize the incidents, kids think they get away with it. Same holds true for adults who break the law. Why write about it? Perhaps it will deter somebody in the future from doing something equally stupid.

Posted by GoWarriors on November 19, 2007 at 2:54 PM

I think it's silly to even imply that Tuscola should forfeit anything. Those players who made the right decision and didn't attend the party need not pay a price. I'm still stunned that with so much at stake, those that did were willing to risk this opportunity. Those of us that played for the Warriors in the past would have given anything for the same chance.

Posted by TuscAlum on November 19, 2007 at 2:54 PM

I don't think the entire team should be punished for the actions of others. No one can be responsible for someone else's behavior. However, the offenders do need to suffer the consequences of their actions.

Posted by Imamom2 on November 19, 2007 at 2:57 PM

TuscAlum--If the rumors that ColaFan mentioned are true, it doesn't sound like hardly anyone on the team made the right decision, so it should be an interesting game on Friday. Go Warriors?

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 2:59 PM

What about the other sports. I bet its not just Football. Thses kids make a bad choice. We all did dumb stuff, it does not make it right. I hope my kids never do some of the things I do. I'm a coach and a teacher and I feel bad about things I did. No matter whats at stake you remember all the things.

Posted by JustLooking on November 19, 2007 at 3:06 PM

ironmike--You might be right, that's one version of the 14 rumors I've heard so far. Nobody but the Administration and the County Sherrif's Office knows for sure yet how many will be gone. It's really an unfortunate situation.

Posted by TuscAlum on November 19, 2007 at 3:07 PM

I heard that there were a few players that are going to miss the game on Friday, however there are still a lot of key players left to play this game! Don't count our boys out yet! There is a lot of talent on this team, and I am sure that there will be players that will step up when they are needed. A Warrior Win can still be the output on Friday! GO WARRIORS!!! WE BELIEVE!!

Posted by TuscolaWarriorMom on November 19, 2007 at 3:09 PM

We will have quite a few key players left - so those of you counting Tuscola out or want to see them fail - shame on you! Our boys will go in there and play their hearts and souls out...and no matter what the outcome may be...our pride will still be city wide!! GO WARRIORS!!

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 3:22 PM

My "reserve" son was one of the kids involved. We are very disappointed and will be dealing with him personally.

As far as the school is concerned, we were notified that our son will be suspended from this weekend's game, as well as upcoming games/events in his next extra-curricular activities. We are also aware of the other players involved ... which was NOT the entire team ... or even half the team. Though some were key players, we expect their back-ups and other remaining "key" players will fill this void. We do not think these remaining players should be held responsible for our son's decision and we take this blame ourselves. Go Warriors!!!!

Posted by TuscolaDad on November 19, 2007 at 3:28 PM

I agree that underage drinking has become a huge problem in Tuscola and is getting worse. Hopefully this incident is a wake up call for all students and parents in Tuscola and other communities. As a parent I have noticed not only is there a lack of discipline when it comes to alcohol but also some parents are supporting and contributing to the cause. I personally have two high school students and it has been a battle to keep my kids from these activities that, as they say, everyone else is going to. I know this unfortunate incident has been a lesson to them and the other kids who do not attend the parties. For the Warriors that chose to make the right decision and not succumb to the peer pressure Good Luck at State! They should not be victims for the selfish, negligent acts of their fellow students. In closing I hope the parents who have been contributing to these frequent actives are held accountable for their action.

Posted by Concerned on November 19, 2007 at 3:31 PM

Very well spoken, Tuscola Dad. I think what those whom do not know these kids need to know is that they are not nameless, faceless monsters. I realize there is a grudge against Tuscola for being such a good team. But these boys are fundamentally good kids. They made a bad decision and no one is kicking them harder than they are kicking themselves right now. But we are Warriors and we can overcome. I wish this team the best of luck and I wish these boys a lesson learned that this is hopefully the worse loss that they will ever have to endure where alcohol is involved.

Posted by WarriorFan on November 19, 2007 at 3:35 PM

Tuscola Dad, I have know idea who you are, but I think you are a big man for your comments. I hope its something you and family can overcome. Good luck in all you do.

Posted by JustLooking on November 19, 2007 at 3:37 PM

Concerned - I agree with you. In this case, the owners of the Cadic's building should be punished.

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 3:40 PM

Is it true that someone tried to conduct a meeting last year to try to get a handle on underage drinking in Tuscola and no parents showed up?

Posted by ColaFan on November 19, 2007 at 3:43 PM

Tuscola Dad, my hat is off to you for responding to these comments with such grace.

Go WARRIORS, win state!

Posted by warriormom2 on November 19, 2007 at 3:44 PM

Interesting:

Concerned--"As a parent I have noticed not only is there a lack of discipline when it comes to alcohol but also some parents are supporting and contributing to the cause."

WarriorFan--"They made a bad decision and no one is kicking them harder than they are kicking themselves right now."

How can two people who are affiliated with this program have such vastly differing viewpoints?

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 3:46 PM

One obvious question needs to be asked here: How did the players GET the alcohol? Did they buy it? Did they take it from their parents? Were they give it? There seems to be plenty of blame to go around. I'm glad that TuscolaDad is willing to take some of it. I just wonder how many other parents won't. What will it take to get them positively involved in their kids lives? Are they mad that their kids were drinking? Or mad that they got caught right before the big game? Big difference.

Posted by GoWarriors on November 19, 2007 at 3:50 PM

I guess, ironmike, it is because we are all adults and as such, we have different opinions. Are you alluding to some innuendo that this is supported? It is not. But you seem to want to make these kids out- and ones that came before them- as beasts. And they are not. They are KIDS who made a bad choice. That is it. They will pay the consequences for their actions.

Posted by WarriorFan on November 19, 2007 at 3:52 PM

Well Said Warriorfan, seems that ironmike has some personal vendeta against Tuscola. These boys and GIRLS will all be held responsible for their actions.

Posted by lovethewarriors on November 19, 2007 at 3:56 PM

I agree WarriorFan. Fortunately, the consequences are only missing the Championship Game and not attending a funeral. That being said, I'd like to see a post from somebody that never made a mistake.

Posted by TuscAlum on November 19, 2007 at 4:01 PM

I bet if you ask ironmike he has never EVER made a mistake or made a poor choice!!

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 4:05 PM

Wait a minute. A kid in his mid teens gets caught drinking and it's just a mistake or poor choice? I don't think that's putting it in the proper perspective. Doing it right before the big game is a mistake. Doing it at all, at that age, is much, much more than that. If you can't recognize that, there are bigger issues here than just the ramifications on a high school football game. I'll give ironmike the benefit of the doubt. I think he just cares about the future of our kids and our community.

Posted by GoWarriors on November 19, 2007 at 4:10 PM

I hope that the parents take charge of this and start up the lines of communication with their kids. Being a person who almost ended up in a wooden box for the same "infraction" as a teenager, I know that talking and talking and talking with your kids makes all the difference. You don't want them to make the same mistakes you did. These kids are all wonderful kids, they just need to really learn the right things from this incident.

Posted by warriormom2 on November 19, 2007 at 4:11 PM

WarriorFan--If you're so sure this isn't supported, how did these kids get their hands on the alcohol? Couldn't TuscolaDad's "reserve" son be extremely young? Maybe 14 or 15 years old. I'm not saying that TuscolaDad or his sons are beasts (by any means) or that TuscolaDad was involved. Someone, however, obtained the alcohol his son was drinking. Someone, and I have no idea who, is supporting this behavior.

Everyone--I'll admit that my first post was uncalled for, and I apologize for it. I have no personal vendetta against Tuscola. I was overreacting to what seemed to be another incident in which people seemed more concerned with the outcome of a football game than some very real problems for teens in their community.

Rather than relying on hearsay - and I also admit I've been doing a bit too much of that - I'd like to find out from a reputable source whether or not underage drinking really is a large-scale problem in Tuscola. I'd also like to find out if ColaFan's point is true that "someone tried to conduct a meeting last year to try to get a handle on underage drinking in Tuscola and no parents showed up." Of course, this could have been a tongue-in-cheek sort of thing.

Posted by ironmike on November 19, 2007 at 4:13 PM

After reading all of these comments, I am completely amazed. It makes me sick to see "grown adults" trying to cause problems. You all are on the outside looking in. Absolutely no one cares what you have to say or think; it won't make any difference in making the decision about their punishment. Tuscola is a small town and the people just want something to gossip about. Well, you finally got it. After this blows over, you'll become bored and look for something new to talk about...and you'll get it. Some of you obviously have harsh feelings towards Tuscola...mainly because they are the ones to beat. Why take it out on kids and their parents? Why question what the parents say or do? Their kids have gotten this far and they are just fine-they're still in high school, right? They haven't dropped out. That's an accomplishment in itself. They are still on the right path, and I give props to their parents for steering them in the right direction. You just want to cause problems. There are some awesome comments in here, and there are also some very foolish ones. Good Luck to the Tuscola Warriors, and also to the kids who will be supporting from the sidelines-mainly because they have to listen to ignorant comments from angry adults.

Posted by Tigerlily on November 19, 2007 at 4:24 PM

I think this town should worry more about the drinking issue with the underage drinkers and the drug issue instead of worrying about a football game..

Posted by mrsevans on November 19, 2007 at 4:30 PM

To reiterate, I was saying I do not support it as your post seemed to be alluding to that it is supported. I can only ever speak for myself. I, myself, do not understand parents who buy alcohol for their kids. I was raised "old school" and I am raising "old school". I am not always my son's favorite person, but I can live with that more than I could live with pandering to being his "buddy". We have more talks than he ever wanted to deal with about his choices, from drinking to grades to interaction with people around him.

I think underage drinking has always been a problem in all towns and cities. Not just ours. I think it has become worse with the breakdown in society of parents being too stressed, overworked or whatever they are to be on top of this problem. It is a big problem and I am concerned about it and I have a zero tolerance policy at home as well. I cannot control the policies of other parents.

I think kids drinking can be categorized as a bad choice as they are not adults yet and do not understand the full ramifications of what they are partaking. I am sorry that offends you GoWarriors, but I remember my teen years and my own hair raises at things I did- things that didn't even involve alcohol and I now sit and wonder "what was I thinking?". I clearly wasn't. My brain had not matured to that point yet.

I am glad you do not see our kids in such a manner, ironmike, as you first came off like you did. I appreciate and accept the apology for your first post.

Posted by WarriorFan on November 19, 2007 at 4:31 PM

I've had my question answered...a meeting was held in Arthur for all of Douglas county and no one showed up.

And as far as everyone concerned that these kids shouldn't be punished for "a little mistake"....Are you under the assumption that this was their first mistake? I'm sure this wasn't the first time they've been drinking. It's just the first time they got caught.

Posted by ColaFan on November 19, 2007 at 4:32 PM

I completely agree with warriormom2. I almost lost my older sister due to this type of thing. The kids are lucky that the only thing they will lose is a football game. It could have been their lives.

Oh, and this problem doesn't just exist in Tuscola. It is just as big of a problem in all of the surrounding communities. I know that if one of my children ever do something like this they will not only be punished by the coaches, but also by their parents. The IHSA should have a zero tolerance policy in place for the whole state.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 19, 2007 at 4:45 PM

GoWarriors--Of course a teenager drinking is more than just a "mistake." It could have been a lot worse. I was not trying to downplay the severity I was trying to say it won't do any good to cast stones.

Posted by TuscAlum on November 19, 2007 at 4:46 PM

It is unfortunate that these Children have chosen to celebrate their win this way. But even more unfortunate is that some fun spirited? adult chose to rent the building and purchase alcohol for these kids. The post saying that the owners of the building should be held responsible is ludicris! They were renting the building to an ADULT who undoubtably didn't disclose their purpose for renting it.

I feel sorry for the boys who chose not to go and may go on to lose the title game because of it. However, those boys who didn't get put in until the last minute of the games during the season (regardless of a complete slaughter in progress) will finally get their chance to shine. Maybe this is some sort of Divine intervention to show the Coach that he has more players than just his starters! In any case, I wish your team luck. They are a good bunch of kids and play a good game of football. Thank God that life will go on after this for all of them.

Posted by riderfan on November 19, 2007 at 5:12 PM

Nothing has been done about the drinking problem in Tuscola for a long time. Would anything be done now if the sheriff hadn't caught them? It's about time someone takes a stand with these students and all students. It is serious. Quit making excuses. If you do something about it they will think twice before doing it again. Teachers and coaches and administration - Quit protecting these kids and get tough. Anyone who has lived in Tuscola knows there has not been a thing done by some people when they knew there was drinking.

Posted by lilly on November 19, 2007 at 5:36 PM

Lilly - do you live in Douglas County - if so - did you attend the meeting in Arthur last year?

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 5:56 PM

As others have said, it is not only a "Tuscola" problem, but a problem for all small towns with nothing to offer for the kids to do. I agree with lilly that the powers that be have got to get tough with these kids. Regardless of what their last name is, be it an underaged drinker or an older adult who breaks the law, they need to be accountable. If Arcola would have won the game Saturday, I'm not so sure it wouldn't have been the same outcome for some of our boys. As parents, it is important to always ask your kids who, what, and where when they ask to go somewhere and check up on them if needed. We can't live with our heads in the sand thinking our kids wouldn't do anything wrong. They will and they do! Lets all get back to being parents and not their friends. They have friends. Most will love you anyway even if you tell them no. At some point, they will even thank you for it. If only we could still spank our kids when they are young, they would recognize authority and the differnce between right & wrong.

Posted by riderfan on November 19, 2007 at 5:58 PM

I was kid once and i have one thing to say

S*** them boys is having the time of their lives!

Posted by jimbob2 on November 19, 2007 at 6:04 PM

Since when did this become the fault of the teachers? (Teachers and coaches and administration - Quit protecting these kids and get tough. Posted by lilly on November 19, 2007 at 5:36 PM) Is it not enough that they get blamed for everything else that goes wrong with these kids? I am sorry but isn't raising your children your job? I have a lot of respect for the coaches and administration who are enforcing the rules even right before "the big game".

Posted by WarriorsRock07 on November 19, 2007 at 6:07 PM

In today's society, it is much harder to raise kids. You can sit down with your children and explain to them the dangers of drinking, smoking and drugs, but ultimately, they will make the decision for themselves if they want to experiment. Face it - we can't monitor our children 24 hours a day - when they ask if they can go to the movies - you only hope that is where they are truly going. We can only pray that when they are out of our site that they follow the guidelines we setforth, or that they have truly listened to what we have explained to them. BUT, if they don't follow the rules or they don't do what is asked of them, then parents have to be willing to stand up and dish out the consequences. I think in the matter of the Football team - the coaches and the Administration are handling the issue the way it should be handled...zero tolerance. Hopefully, those who made the decision to drink, realize that it is not only affecting the coaches and parents, but it is affecting the entire community. We are now deemed as the only community who has a problem with underage drinking.

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 7:01 PM

Parents should be in control of their children. How many times has a teacher complained to a parent though and the parent does nothing. It happens. Their child does nothing wrong. I know coaches who knew there was drinking and did not suspend the players. It happens. All adults need to work together for the student but it does not work that way. We want toi win at all costs and the loser is the student......My comment was for teachers and all connected with the schools please do not look the other way when you KNOw something is wrong, because that child is not always going to get the help at home. I know teachers have plenty to do and do not get paid enough. They are not only teachers but sometimes the only person that student has to talk to. I am thankful for teachers, we have several in our family and I know what they are going through. But so many times the administration and parents do not back the teacher.

Posted by lilly on November 19, 2007 at 7:37 PM

As a Warrior Alum, I feel really bad for all those players who have done it the right way and made good choices this season unlike last season! The football program and administration has a long history of covering up these types of incidences over the years. This too, would have probably been swept under the rug if authorities wern't involved and they weren't forced to handle it. The upper admin has dropped the ball repeatedly here so we'll see what actually comes about. We should still go represent the school and put the best kids on the field and let them have a blast playing for a championship even if it is ONLY 1A Football.

Warrior Alum

Posted by Coach on November 19, 2007 at 8:46 PM

About 9 football players got kicked off the team for this, 5 of them were starters I believe. This is a small town, things get heard very quickly but sometimes those things could be mistaken. Thats why you have to get your facts straight by someone who was there. The players that got caught should deffently be punished for what they did. They celebrate going to state by drinking...it's not right at all. We all don't know what they were thinking, they made a mistake and will pay for it. Today a lot of the kids were taking it very hard at school. They have all noticed that they made a huge mistake. We are all dissipointed in them. I still wish them luck at state...

Posted by Dancer2 on November 19, 2007 at 9:05 PM

Ironmike did your mom hide your pacifier before your 21st birthday?? Whar a dork.

Posted by williron on November 19, 2007 at 9:05 PM

To riderfan. I'm a student at our high school. If we did win the semi finals we would have not done the same thing. I'm sure some other people would of but not our football boys cause most of them know better. Last game we won we went to a friends house and played football games on the PS2 and ate pizza...I say thats a way to celebrate your victory. :)

Posted by Dancer2 on November 19, 2007 at 9:13 PM

Colafan you more than likely supported a looser Saturday. Try getting your rumors straight before you pass judgement on kids from a community you evidently dislike. just two words for you NO CLASS.

Posted by williron on November 19, 2007 at 9:18 PM

Dancer2 - I think that you have other problems within your football organization - a coach who cannot control his temper. Hopefully, Administration will deal with that in the way that they should...not let him return next year!!

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 19, 2007 at 9:21 PM

Also, there has been many drinking underaged parties in our communties. They just never seem to get caught. Somethings need to change.

Posted by Dancer2 on November 19, 2007 at 9:23 PM

Gofightwin2- Our coach is fine.

Posted by Dancer2 on November 19, 2007 at 9:28 PM

Hello everyone. I am a student at TCHS. I also am a student who attended this party. I made the mistake of going. I have alot to say to defend myself but none of those things matter right now. I am not going to give my name or anything that might tell who I am. I just want to say a few things. Saturday night at CaDics was the biggest mistake of my life. And I know so many more people who feel the exact same way. We made a huge mistake and we know that. Drinking is an issue. I agree with that. I was not a student who was 'drinking' but i did have a few sips of a friends. My point in giving out this information is, we are all being punished. Whether you had a sip or got drunk off your butt, whether you have a 'good name' or you dont, we are all being punished the same. Not only the football guys were there. Members of other teams were too. Not only the football guys are losing alot, everyone there did and still are. Our family, school administrators, coaches, teachers, and even friends are so disappointed in all of us and dont trust us at all. And believe it or not, it hurts us really bad. We have all learned so much from this. Yes what we did is wrong. I know that. I know what I did was wrong. Nothing can or will make it right, but I am learning..slowly but surely. We apparently weren't thinking. This has changed alot of people though. I am sorry to all the guys who didnt go to the party and have to play at state without some of their teammates...but I am also sorry to all the girls who might be losing a basketball player, or the dance team, or the cheerleaders, or scholastic bowl, or student council. But I have 100% full faith in everyone at our school to get done what needs to be done. We are a strong community and we will pull together and get through this, and we'll do it together. I know some of us did wrong, but why should that mean doubting those who havent? The football team did lose some key players, along with other TCHS teams, but every athlete out has amazing potential and you should not doubt them because of our mistakes. All of our teams still need your support. Please have faith in them. They can win. I believe it and so should all of you. Also, I know most of the people who were there personally. We are good people, really we are, we just made a mistake, like everyone does. I dont know about every parent, but my parents and most of the people I have talked to...are punishing their kids. They are doing the best they can. They trusted us and we disreguarded that. But we are getting what we deserve. And for everyone who thinks we arent..you are extremely wrong. There is alot of facts most of you dont know and alot of rumors most of you do know. You should and must take that into consideration.I dont think I have seen our school more sad, down, and disappointed as it was today. All of us know it is on our backs, and it is eating away at us so bad. Know that we are suffering too. I just want to apologize to everybody on behalf of the people at the party. We are truly sorry from deep in our hearts.

Posted by imadethemistake on November 19, 2007 at 10:05 PM

Your coach is fine? Being who? Stan? Stan is a jerk, he runs the score up and acts like a tyrant. Yet, wasn't he instrumental in ousting a great set of basketball coaches because of their sideline demeanor? Seems like his only concern this playoff season or any for that matter is point margin and how the record books will read. With his team up 41-6 in the fourth quarter with 3 minutes left he left in a Division 1 quarterback to score again for what reason? He is clearly a jerk. He even risked John's college career to leave him in at tackle on the extra point to make it 48 instead of 47 wow!!!! Biggest fish in the smallest pond should win everytime. Let him play in 2A under a 6 class system without seedings and quadrants the way it should be. Oh wait...we already know the result of that three 3rd round blowouts. Remember it is only 1A Football in an 8 class system.

Posted by Coach on November 19, 2007 at 10:12 PM

There has been a lot said about the youth that were at the party but how about the owner or owner's of the place where the party was held, shouldn't they be held accountable for providing a place for these kids to party, and isn't it possible kids from other towns were there also??????

Posted by williron on November 19, 2007 at 10:15 PM

The kids will be sorry now and parents will now say we have a problem because they got caught. If they hadn't gotten caught they would have done the same thing next Friday night when they WOULD HAVE WON the state title. Students should listen more and talk less and learn some respect. I can criticize those who drink because I stood up for what I believed in in high school even if I was the only one standing there. I NEVER DRANK IN HIGH SCHOOL. Drinking is not the only way to have fun.

Posted by Coach on November 19, 2007 at 10:24 PM

Here's a question for discussion. Were the players and students who attended this party just as much as fault as those who "drank"? Should all Atending be suspended?

Posted by tuscola2 on November 19, 2007 at 11:19 PM

Coach, your post definitely sounds like sour grapes to me! I remember when it was the other way around and Arcola sure didn't worry about running the score up on Tuscola!!! Coach Weinke has done an excellent job of building the Tuscola Football program and their record shows it. Oh, I guess I can thank Arcola and the other towns that wanted Tuscola out of the LOVC, because they were tired of losing to them all of the time. Playing 2A schools all season only made the Warriors stronger so that they could come back and kick you guys a** one more time in a Cola Wars game.

Posted by CHowyouAre on November 20, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Coach just because you didn't drink doesn't mean you don't have other imperfections. Is Tuscola the "Dark Force" now? Get real, this type of youth indicretion goes on in all communities.

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 12:10 AM

Would the "Raid" even have taken place had the Sheriff not been a long-time Arcola resident?

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 12:21 AM

First off, i would like to say to the offending players and other students: Shame on you. You let your teamates, classmates, parents, and entire community down. But all of you know that! You cant change what you did but you can learn from it and deal with it. I encourage all members of the team that were suspended to attend the game Friday and support your team because you didnt Saturday night. Even though you cant play you can still help them win.

To Coach: I have been to a few Tuscola football games this year and i noticed right off that the players were very well coached. Their coach has implemented some things into their offense that has helped them to be very good. Other coaches should take notice and learn something instead of criticize. And the idea of running up the score? Well if im not mistaken it is football and teams are suppose to play defense. I dont know where your from but im sure you were on the receiving end of this very talented team. I was at the game Saturday and Arcola had a good team. If they were coached better the score would ahve been alot closer!!! There are so many holes in Tuscola's defense and Arcola had the talent to take advantage of them. It was their game to win!!!!

The problem with alchohol is not just in Tuscola but it is a problem in the entire country! Stop critcizing the students and put your efforts towards stopping the problem.

I hope the Tuscola Warriors can pull together with the athletes they have and play another great game.

Posted by Indiana on November 20, 2007 at 1:28 AM

longtimetuscolaboy, your remark about the Sheriff is immature. Why would you make such a remark. This is probably the best thing that could have happened. It has made alot of people stand up and take a look at themselves. I think that the students in Tuscola will think twice before doing this again, and the Sheriff probably saved some lives Saturday night.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 6:34 AM

What is immature about questioning the motives of an elected official? Get a grip, these young men are 17 to 18 years old. They can join the Army and go to war and we won't let them have a beer? I faced the same thing when I got my draft number years ago. It is hypocritical to the extreme for them to be sent to kill and not be allowed the simple pleasure of a beer.

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 7:07 AM

There is nothing "simple" about this situation. The fact is a large number of kids made a poor choice which not only cost the students playing in their sport, but hurt many that did not make that choice. The Sheriff was simply doing his duty period. If it would have been a party thrown by Arcola, Arthur, Atwood, Villa Grove, or any other area town I am sure his deputies would have done the same thing. This is not about you, or when "you" got drafted, or when someone should be able to drink. It is about kids learning from this and not doing it again. I have seen too many 14, 15, 16, 17 year olds drink, get behind the wheel or get into a car with someone who was drinking, and die. It sounds like many of the students that made this decision are sorry that they did, and that they will learn from it.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 7:18 AM

You should read the posts and see that I am FROM TUSCOLA. And as for imperfections, sure we all had them. I think the issue here is Drinking not anything else. No sour grapes here, just calling them how I see them. Not everyone in Tuscola likes the classless way in which Tuscola wins. I remember being told to fall down, cramp, do something but do not score again and do not make it obvious. But, hey he would rather demoralize kids from opposing teams. 62 points! 60 points...that is unnecessary in ANY football game. Put your freshman in for crying out loud instead of starters with 3 minutes left to get the 47 & 48th points of an already blowout. Clearly those freshman could have used the experience cuz they may have to start now. LOL!!!!! Use common sense guys. Are you that greedy too? Do records mean that much? NO wonder other towns hate Tuscola. His kids only followed the example their coach laid out. NO class! TUSCOLA FOOTBALL HAS NO CLASS. The kids are great but their coach? Look at their history of drinking that has been swept under the rug. I would use names but not in this forum. Pretty simple no class. I bleed black and gold (not yellow)! That does not mean I have to agree with the Coaches or the Community! Best Tuscola Football team without a doubt is the 1982 Team. End of story for all you who only remember the present. Don't believe for one second in Tuscola there has ever been a better team in Tuscola. And no...I did not play on that team.

Posted by Coach on November 20, 2007 at 7:18 AM

Williron- I wasn't laying out facts at all. If you read back you'll notice I was searching for answers for things I wasn't sure of. And it's funny that you think I dislike Tuscola. I support both Arcola and Tuscola and remained neutral throughout the Cola Wars. (thus my username) I don't dislike Tuscola at all, it's my hometown. What I do dislike is underage drinking. And the problem in Tuscola has been affecting my family for quite awhile now. I'm hoping this raid was a divine intervention.

Posted by ColaFan on November 20, 2007 at 7:37 AM

No, the fact seems to be that an adult rented Cadics and served alcohol to minors. The facts seems to be that the Sheriff is a long-time Arcola resident. As COACH says "NO wonder other towns hate Tuscola. His kids only followed the example their coach laid out. NO class! TUSCOLA FOOTBALL HAS NO CLASS. The kids are great but their coach? Look at their history" Sounds like there is resentment in generous quantity. It is also about the drinking age and what our country expects of these young men very shortly. It sounds to me like none of you ever faced Basic training and time in the Service during a WAR. Do you expect these young men to just suddenly be ready to do your dirty work and not burn off steam with a beer?

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 7:39 AM

Nothing like kicking these kids while they are down by saying they have no class. I happen to be a part of the Tuscola High School Community and saw the affect this had on everyone yesterday. Last week I had tried to imagine what life would be like if we had lost to Arcola - yesterday was it. There was no cheering or high fiving in the hallways. The kids who are normally talkative and goofing around were quiet and subdued. The entire student body, staff, administration and community have been affected by this. These boys have a lot of CLASS, determination, heart and soul. They need our support and I for one will be at Memorial Stadium in my Black and Gold. My hope is that the remainder of the team can shake off the bad publicity and regroup and hopefully this time next week we will be talking about the Back to Back State Champion Tuscola Warriors.

Posted by WarriorsRock07 on November 20, 2007 at 8:52 AM

Coach- TUSCOLA FOOTBALL HAS CLASS. Show me one town in the whole USA that teens do not drink. Even Amish communities. Yes, this has been going on in Tuscola for years, but you act like Tuscola is the only place that it does. At least I don't see Tuscola fans drinking beer in the End Zone as another team I have seen. Those fans did the same at the Routt game as well. But these were Adults (setting a good example) Running up the score? I think that Tuscola has had the opportunity to run up the score a lot more than they have this season. Coach Weinke does put in second string, maybe not just as soon as you would like.

The players made the wrong choice and are paying the price. No one can change that. It's time to move on and think about beating Galena.

GOOD LUCK WARRIORS!

THE COMMUNITY IS WITH YOU!!!

Posted by CHowyouAre on November 20, 2007 at 8:59 AM

What it boils down to longtimetuscola boy, is that drinking beer at 17 and 18 is completely ILLEGAL.....does that have to be spelled out for you? They are not allowed to burn off steam with beer and anybody that does that regularly could turn that into a problem with alcohol. This has nothing to do with a coach, or history or anything else but the fact that there was a beer party for underage drinkers and they got busted. Rumors are that someone had a key to get into CaDics, not that it was rented. I'm sure the police will find that out sooner or later as their investigation continues.

Posted by warriormom2 on November 20, 2007 at 9:07 AM

I've just talked with one of the parents that knows the whole story. Believe me, you don't want to know anymore than you do now. As for those who don't think history has anything to do with this or that I'm out of line. Just go back to your self-absorbed little world. Keep pretending that there are no larger issues here. You can't handle the truth.

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 9:17 AM

You are all bashing the football players, what about the cheerleaders, pom pon girls, basketball players and anyone else that was there. You are making a HUGE deal out of this because it was the football players that were there. Yes, drinking is nothing they need to be doing to celebrate, and i don;t support this, but there were more that football players there!

Posted by lovethewarriors on November 20, 2007 at 9:20 AM

COACH - it was the Arcola coach I was speaking about. His temper was out of control the day before the game with Tuscola. It absolutely amazes me that he was allowed to get away with the verbal abuse he displayed towards the students. He should have been FIRED on the spot!! Talk about NO CLASS!!

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 20, 2007 at 9:28 AM

As for the statement that "Tuscola Football Has No Class" from longtimetuscolaboy, I think that the Tuscola Players do have a lot of CLASS. Not every team helps up the opposing teams downed players, pats them on the back for a good tackle or a good play, and I haven't seen the Tuscola players do something intentional - ex: the face mask penalty seen during last Saturday's game. A picture is worth a thousand words.... See the Sunday edition of The News Gazette.

I feel that the Coaches and the Administration are doing what they feel is the best for all involved. I also feel that this is being handled with a TON OF CLASS. I think that we should all take into consideration the decisions that had to be made in the last couple of days, and compliment them for the action that has been taken.

As for imadethemistake - I hope that we will see you at the stadium on Friday. You might have made a wrong choice, but the players going onto the field on Friday also need your support.

Posted by TuscolaWarriorMom on November 20, 2007 at 9:41 AM

to: TuscolaWarriorMom I guess you didn't see the quote marks around the NO CLASS comment. That was a quote of remarks from COACH. Tuscola is full of class.

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 9:50 AM

My "own little world" was a world of underage drinking when I was a teenager. If the parties I was at had gotten busted, several of us wouldn't have been involved in accidents due to driving under the influence. Read my posts from yesterday....I had to learn my mistakes the hard way. All of these kids have a chance to learn from this. Those present, those who left early, those who were not there at all, football, pom-pon, cheerleaders, basketball players, ALL OF THEM. This is an opportunity to help curb underage drinking by learning. No, it's not going to go away, but this may help. Again, it's up to all of us parents to teach and talk to our kids. It's not about the administration or the coaches or the teachers. We as parents are ultimately responsible for our children's actions at this age.

Posted by warriormom2 on November 20, 2007 at 9:51 AM

Hats off to Stan Weinke for the way you have handled things. I know you don't read this but you and Lenny and the rest of the coaches and TEAM hand in there. Do the Okaw proud, we as coaches have all had this problem, but not at the time it is hitting you.

Signed

Mike Conlin CAM

Posted by JustLooking on November 20, 2007 at 9:53 AM

The high schoolers should not have been drinking because they are not of age and they let their team, community & fellow students down. I am not stating anything more then what everyone else stated previously. I do not get the bashing Tuscola because there has been a problem with drinking there for a long time. It is everywhere, as also stated previously. Kids from other surrounding (rival) towns were there also. Nobody talks about that! It just amazes me that a mysterious call was made to the police department that night and the police from one of these rival towns was the first to show up. I am glad that no one got behind the wheel and that no one was hurt. I say punish the ones that were there (like what is being done) and get on with it. There is a state championship to be won Friday so Warriors go there and get the job done! I also need to state to the person that says Tuscola needs to play in 2A, bring it on! Tuscola lost to the 2A defending champion by 7. Maroa's coach stated that he hoped he did not have to play Tuscola again. If they played 10 times, I would say Tuscola would win 5 of them. Whoever stated Tuscola has no class isn't very intelligent either. I played when we were getting our tails handed to us so I have been on the other side. Nothing against the other teams but if they cannot stop the second string (when they are put in) then do you just want Tuscola to take a knee.

Posted by BD1 on November 20, 2007 at 9:55 AM

What has made Tuscola so great is there is alot of talent on the team. And there still is. It is time to stop lamenting who will not be there and start cheering who will. Tuscola stills has every chance of winning this game, this team has done well off multiple talents, not just a couple good players. The only thing that has blown this way out of proportion is the timing. If the students were ones who were not active in any sport or activity this would be left to the administration and the parents and no one would be the wiser. Maybe it is time to let it go that way and turn the focus on who is there- we have so much talent on this team and I think we can do this!

Posted by WarriorFan on November 20, 2007 at 11:07 AM

Its time to move on! The kids that were there at the party are getting punished and hopefully have learned a lesson! Its time to concentrate on the real problem in all communities- which is underage drinking. It happens everywhere- not just in Tuscola- I have read the imputs and many of you sound like you are really uptight people that just hate Tuscola- grow up- Its a game-

We have put our JV team in and secondary players- and they scored on our opponents- They have talent- and we cannot let the bad choices of a "few" and I mean a "few" football players to overshadow- the boys in Black and Gold that didnt attend and have been model citzens and have been great role models for our younger fans. GO Warriors! You are State Champs!

Posted by TTownfan on November 20, 2007 at 11:21 AM

I agree WarriorFan! We have the talent, the timing was bad, and our players can still win this!

I hope that the fans look past this, and support those that are still playing. PLEASE don't give up on them! The last thing that the players need right now are people who feel that we are doomed for failure at Friday's game. We need for the players to understand that they are still supported by the students, administration, the city of Tuscola, and ALL other supporting fans.

For those players who are reading these notes, know that WE are behind you, WE believe in you, and WE know that you are capable of bringing home the title again this year.

WARRIOR PRIDE, REALLY IS, CITY WIDE...... and much more!

Posted by TuscolaWarriorMom on November 20, 2007 at 11:28 AM

Nothing I have written ever implied that Tuscola's team could not win the State Final. I've seen enough of the games to know, without any doubt, that we have a "Deep Bench". Tuscola can and should win the coming game. I and my family will be there to cheer them on. I hope that the students (all of them) show up and have a great time. It just sticks in my craw as to the timing of the raid since "everyone" seems to have known the partying was going on, why not wait until after the State Final game and make an even better headline for those that hate Tuscola to enjoy.

Posted by longtimetuscolaboy on November 20, 2007 at 11:40 AM

To the Tuscola Warrior Mom,

Excuse me--but, I don't think you should be saying the face mask was intentional!!! We got a penalty for that! Game is over!

Arcola was very proud to get to play Tuscola in the playoffs. We played fair and square, Tuscola won!

Yes, I'm proud of all of our Arcola Team, our team played hard and gave it there all, all year!!!!! We have nothing to be ashamed of!!!!!!!

Posted by arcolaseniorparent on November 20, 2007 at 11:58 AM

OK...everyone take a deep breath.

As a former coach (long time at Arcola) we have all had to deal with this issue. Drinking was a problem 25+ years ago (that's as far as I remember) and there are no easy answers. It takes more than a school to address this, it will take a community effort. Everyone needs to pull together not in different directions.

I do have some responses to what have been written here....

1. Unless you have been there, you don't understand the decisions that a head coach has to make. Stan, Lenny and I have had some great games against each other. I may have made different choices than Stan (I still like to run rather than pass :-) ) however, I have the upmost respect for him as a coach. His teams were always well prepared and ready to play.

2. The only time that I intentionally tried to get a 40 point lead had nothing to do with playing against Tuscola and everything to do with the respect I have for Dusty Burke. I have never been so impressed with an opposing QB and I wanted that clock running so he would not have time to get "hot" and find a way to get the team back into the game.

Good Luck to the Tuscola team and staff. It's easy to come together when times are good, a TEAM pulls together when times are hard and finds a way to get the job done. No excuses guys...it is what it is, give it your best effort, hold your head high and in the long run.....you will be winners.

Joe Marks

Former Arcola Football Coach

Posted by JoeMarks on November 20, 2007 at 12:03 PM

"The IHSA should have a zero tolerance policy in place for the whole state."

Why? Because someone in this area got caught, then the whole state should pay?

The philosophy of "no one should be punished unless everyone is punished" is a tired one. Let it rest.

Posted by Wenalway on November 20, 2007 at 12:21 PM

I've been reading this for 2 days now and it's time for my two cents worth.

Some background on me. I've lived in Tuscola my entire life, have played sports and have kids in ths school system today. I have to say, this is not the first time this has happened and I'm sure it won't be the last. I don't pretend to know ALL the details of the "raid" but for what I'm about to say, I don't think that matters.

The students who were at this party are being punished (which by my own admission has been a rarity in Tuscola). This should make an impression on the entire community (i.e. students, parents and people in the community) that there is a problem and that is good.

The person criticizing the Sheriff's department for doing there job and climing bias, doesn't know much about Sheriff McGrew. I'm from Tuscola, and I KNOW this has NOTHING to do with him being from Arcola--GROW UP!

I also was at the game Saturday and thought Arcola did a great job! Those kids deserve more credit than they have gotten! As for the score, blame the IHSA system for making teams score points to retain home-field advantage!!!

I just want to say that I will still support the Tuscola team that plays this Friday as well as those who don't. I just hope the lessons will be learned by everyone for the future, not just until it all blows over!

Lastly, Tuscola has taken a couple of blows this year by young people not living up to their obligations. What I'm afraid is happening is that parents don't have the same amount of control over their children these days. I've overheard kids saying terrible things to their parents and the parents seem to put up with it. It appears to me, we as parents are as much to blame for not keeping track of our kids and not teching them responsibility, right & wrong, or good old fashioined family values!

Ok...time for you to bash away at me...

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 1:24 PM

Sorry for all of the spelling mistakes, I guess I didn't proof too well.

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 1:28 PM

No bashing here, familyman. You did good.

Posted by ColaFan on November 20, 2007 at 1:29 PM

What I find interesting about this entire situation is that anyone even cares about the football game on Friday. Who cares if players were suspended and now the "reserve" team has to play? At least no one lost their lives! And for the rumors about students losing possible football scholarships on what not-those students did not "lose" anything, they handed that away when they chose to go to the party. Right now Tuscola is going to be put through the wringer just because they are still in the playoffs. Had Arcola won on Saturday, it probably would have been a very similar situation, and we'd all be talking about that now. The problem is not that the kids were suspended, or what a great tradition of football Tuscola has, nor does it have anything to do with Coach Wieke's character or ability as a coach: it's what the students were suspended for. Underage drinking is a serious problem mostly because of the society we live in, we are so focused on celebrities and athletic superstars who go out and get drunk and make it look "cool", no wonder kids who have grown up in the MTV generation feel that they can get away with anything. I am not without my own mistakes and indiscretions, but I do have a very passionate stand on underage drinking. I think that Coach Wienke and the Tuscola school system made a wise choice in suspending the players. I hope that they will stick to this standard and other area schools will follow suit.

Posted by justbrowsing on November 20, 2007 at 2:07 PM

I guess the football game is on Saturday, right? Sorry about that.

Posted by justbrowsing on November 20, 2007 at 2:07 PM

Let me first say that I have been very involved with this situation from the beginning (from the players affected, from players not affected, from first hand info from the school, etc) and I still don't know the whole story. I started to read all the replies to the article but frankly, it made my head hurt.

The first idea here should be, if you don't know the whole story then don't give your opinion. We are dealing with very good kids who made a mistake. Let us not throw stones from glass houses...so if you have never broken a law or made a mistake then feel free to cast judgement...otherwise, get your facts together and remember that we are dealing with KIDS that made a bad judgement. For those of you who say, "it's been going on in Tuscola for years," let me be the one to help you out of your naive bubble...it's going on EVERYWHERE. That doesn't make it right, but don't use 8 boys from the Tuscola football team as the poster kids for underage drinking, believe me they are very low on the scale when it comes to the problems of today's youth. If they were kids on a 2 and 11 team that didn't make the playoffs, no one would have an opinion and it sure wouldn't be "newsworthy." But they are great players from a great program that messed up, so now it's ok for everyone to villify them and make examples out of them? NO! They let down their coach, their teammates, their school, their community, their families...but most of all they let themselves down and NOBODY feels worse than they do. Not many of you had the opportunity to watch these young men clean out their lockers on Monday, with the tears in their eyes as they watched a lifelong dream come to an end (honestly, I was fighting back the tears seeing them do it). The seniors won't get another chance and they have to live with that, isn't that enough for you people? Or do you need to continue to kick them while they are down in order to make yourself feel better? What they did was wrong...and THEY KNOW IT.

I just think we should all remember, it's a football game and whether they win or lose, Tuscola is still a great team and a CLASS program and the mistakes of a few kids WILL NOT change that. Lighten up on these kids, they have lost enough already.

My bet is that the team on the field Friday will "pick up" their fallen Warriors and will still BRING HOME THE CHAMPIONSHIP!!!

Posted by jwilliams on November 20, 2007 at 2:12 PM

I'm speaking as a parent of a teen seriously injured in a DUI accident over the summer. My teen made some poor decisions that evening and is still paying the consequences 4 months later - both in and out of school. Her father and I both talked at length about the risk of drinking, drugs, sex, etc., but the bottom line is SHE made the wrong choice and she is accountable for it. The entire family has suffered the consequences of her decisions that evening along with the other teens that made a choice to go to the party - drink (all were under age) and get into a car! This indeed is a country-wide problem and education is a must - both in school and out. My teen's future still hangs in the balance physically. She also is an athlete and sat out her entire Jr. volleyball season with just consequences upheld by UHS and we, her parents. It's the whole concept of "It won't happen to me." That statement is true - when it "happens" it happens to everyone that loves that person and they all feel the hurt and disappointment. The biggest consequence of all is the trust that was lost, and it takes time - much time to rebuild. Choices can be made in a split second - however the wrong choice can effect your entire life. Our kids need to know that underage drinking is just that - UNDER AGE and it's against the law as well as driving while intoxicated - but first and foremost we, the adults, need to lead by example! I'm grateful to know that Tuscola was not attending multiple high school funerals this Thanksgiving and playoff weekend. I'm also grateful that we did not have to experience burying our daughter at 16 yrs. of age.

Posted by UrbanaMom on November 20, 2007 at 2:23 PM

Why is this about a football game or any other sport for that matter? Tuscola (I don't live in Tuscola or Arcola) is not the only town with alcohol/drug problems. The problem lies in the fact that the judicial system keeps taking away our parental rights making it very difficult to "disipline" these kids. Curfews are not inforced. Illegal consumption is just a slap on the wrist. I don't want to just rattle on but I know first hand how difficult it is to get the authorities to listen and react. Let's quit pointing fingers at each other and find a way to work together to address these problems and get these students involved in positive programs...SADD for example. I have been to 3 funerals for classmates all killed by drunk drivers. Let's be the communities (yes, communties...Tuscola, Arcola, Atwood, Villa Grove, etc.) that make the news by being the first COUNTY supported program to wage the war against drugs and alcohol consumption. Lastly, good luck Warriors and hopefully each player will take a few minutes Friday to thank their families and friends for supporting them...especially the little kids on the sidelines dreaming of wearing that black and gold uniform someday!!!

Posted by mom24 on November 20, 2007 at 2:28 PM

I have sat back and read all the posts.

I must say to Urbanamom, Thank you for putting the reality spin that was badly needed here. Bless you and I hope your daughter makes a full recovery.

Most of these kids (boys and girls) that are involved with this matter have been to my house at one time or another. Nothing but respect from these kids. They made a bad decision that will follow them for some time.

When these kids entered my house wearing their "colors", comments were made like, "No black and gold in my house!!!" These kids took in stride. I guess for those of you who have been to my home you are still welcome. We treat all kids like they are are own.

This will pass and at this point we can only hope some good comes out of it.

Posted by Riderpop on November 20, 2007 at 3:14 PM

thanks to coach for the comments he made about Tuscola's football coach. Everyone outside of Tuscola knows what this man stands for. Put the team in 2A and see how well they do. He does run up the score. All he thinks about is winning at any cost. Please don't try and tell me he and others did not know about drinking problems at THS. Something could have been done and should have been done earlier and then these kids would not be in the predicament they are in now. The Principal of the school also knows. If you would get tough like some of the other schools are doing and suspend them they would think twice about going out and drinking. Too bad this all had to happen right before an important game. Now I am reading where some of the Tuscola fans are trying to blame the owners of the establishment. Come on Tuscola accept your responsibilites. This is what is the matter with your kids. So what if a coach loses his temper once in a while, if you can't taKE IT GET OUT....

Posted by lilly on November 20, 2007 at 3:20 PM

thanks to coach for the comments he made about Tuscola's football coach. Everyone outside of Tuscola knows what this man stands for. Put the team in 2A and see how well they do. He does run up the score. All he thinks about is winning at any cost. Please don't try and tell me he and others did not know about drinking problems at THS. Something could have been done and should have been done earlier and then these kids would not be in the predicament they are in now. The Principal of the school also knows. If you would get tough like some of the other schools are doing and suspend them they would think twice about going out and drinking. Too bad this all had to happen right before an important game. Now I am reading where some of the Tuscola fans are trying to blame the owners of the establishment. Come on Tuscola accept your responsibilites. This is what is the matter with your kids. So what if a coach loses his temper once in a while, if you can't taKE IT GET OUT....

Posted by lilly on November 20, 2007 at 3:20 PM

Well enough is enough. Let the parents, school officals and the people who know what is going on handle the matter and let it go. Let's support the kids that are playing on Friday and give them are all. And also support the kids who made a MISTAKE as im sure we all have in our life, me included. Dont cast them aside because of this..be there for them too if they ask. GO WARRIORS......

Posted by WOODY on November 20, 2007 at 3:24 PM

To Lilly - just a clarification, a principal cannot suspend a student from school for drinking unless a student is drinking on school grounds, at a school sponsored event or shows up to school or a school sponsored event intoxicate. A coach can suspend an athlete no matter when it happens as per the athletic code of that school. Again I will say - when are parents going to be parents and stop expecting the schools to raise their kids.

Posted by WarriorsRock07 on November 20, 2007 at 3:32 PM

Woody's comment makes the most sense of all this. I'm sure the students involved, suspended or not, from Tuscola or not, will deal with this in their own personal way with their family. no matter what the posters say here.

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 3:44 PM

When I said that the IHSA should have a zero tolerance policy I meant that if an athlete, any athlete, gets caught doing something that they should not be doing, be it drinking, doing drugs, or breaking the law, then that athlete should be punished accordingly. When I was in High School at TCHS my coach had a zero tolerance policy. We were told that if we drank, got caught by the police or by him that we would be off of the team, and we knew he would do it because he had done it to one of the top track athletes the year before. We were scared to do anything that would get us introuble. We also kept each other out of trouble and that brought us closer together as a team. We ended up winning the regionals that year and the LOVC tournament the next. If anyone of us had gotten in trouble it would have caused the same amount disapointment that it is now. I just think that if the penalty is severe then there will be a greater chance that the kids will not do this.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 4:17 PM

Familyman I applaud you.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 4:22 PM

Coach, 82 was a good year for football in Tuscola, but they definately were not of the caliber of the last two teams. No team in the history of Tuscola Football has been this good, and I have seen some good Tuscola Football, and this has nothing to do with the topic. I do know that Winke has sent his subs in in the second half, and there have been times when John barely played at QB. But what does any of this have to do with the topic. The point is that the kids got caught and now they are facing their punishment. Get over the past and let this blow over too. Lets just hope that everyone, kids, parents, and the whole area will learn from it.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 4:33 PM

Wow, lilly, promoting abuse of any kind is pretty awful!

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 20, 2007 at 4:42 PM

arthurmom: we are learning. tell me you have never made a mistake and not learned from it? yes i understand we need to be punished..and we ARE being punished. people seem to be forgetting that. but that isnt the worst thing that is going on with us right now. you can punish us all you want, but nothing you do will make us feel lower than we already do. jwilliams said it all. do you understand how hard it is to give up a dream you've wanted all your life because of one stupid mistake or an extremely bad decision? or to know that you let your teammates, and better yet, your friends down? we are hurting. and we are learning. we are doing our best. and we are being punished. woody also was right on the nose. i believe the guys can win this weekend along with our other athletic teams, but they need support. they need you to BELIEVE. and we need you to, too. believe we know we made a mistake, and believe making that mistake has taught us something and has essentially made us better people.

Posted by imadethemistake on November 20, 2007 at 4:57 PM

and i didnt mean for that to only be directed at arthurmom..but everyone else who feels the same as she does.

also. please dont go by rumors you hear. i've heard so many rumors that arent true and make us seem like monsters. we are kids. not monsters. please if you hear something and it isnt from someone who was directly there, dont pass it along, because there is a good change that it is probably not true..

Posted by imadethemistake on November 20, 2007 at 5:00 PM

Familyman- No bashing here!!! Good job. :)

Posted by Dancer2 on November 20, 2007 at 5:10 PM

The point is Arthumom that you reap what you sew. And yes the 82 team was ALOT better. How soon we forget!!!! Using the logic of Tuscola Folks, every year they are better than the last. Believe me, I would be the first to say this was a great team if in fact they were a great team... the fact is they are an okay team for class 1A. The 1985 Arcola team would destroy them. DO NOT FORGET I BLEED BLACK AND GOLD, NOT YELLOW! But I do not support the last 12 years of Tuscola Football and what they have done to opposing teams. John Wienke is a GREAT quarterback and can put the ball where it needs to be. Any good coach could beat them by jamming the receivers much like team of the past have done such as VG, Unity, and CAM!!! Easy recipe.

Posted by Coach on November 20, 2007 at 5:16 PM

I'm saying it now because i'm sick and tired of you guys saying this! Our ARCOLA COACH is FINE! We all love him and he has been a great coach! I'm not happy with your guy's comments about our coach. He apologized! GET OVER IT PLEASE! How on earth did you guys even get on to this subject! =/

Posted by Dancer2 on November 20, 2007 at 5:23 PM

I find it rediculous to see people on this board and in the paper saying they applaud the coach/AD and administration for doing the right thing....THEY ARE ONLY DOING IT BECAUSE THEY HAVE TO. THERE WAS A POLICE REPORT! What about all the other times when there wasn't a police report and what about all the kids not listed in the police report? Why are they allowed to play? Why is there no investigation into them? I will tell you why, because they know they would have no team left because of the large number of players at the party. Stop making excuses and face the fact that if they could have covered it up they would have. If Tuscola wants to claim to do the right thing, then show it by investigating, immediately, ALL players and the FULL situation on their own RIGHT now and not later as information becomes available. We all know when it will be available. Conveniently after Friday's game.

Posted by Coach on November 20, 2007 at 5:25 PM

Dancer2 - your coach can make an apology for abusive behavior towards STUDENTS and everyone is supposed to forget it - so you mean, if those caught drinking apologized it would all be forgotten?

Posted by gofightwin2 on November 20, 2007 at 5:31 PM

imadethemistake, I was not saying you were not being punished. I was stating that I hope the area learns from this situation. I feel that it is being handled well and that most of the parents and administration are doing a fine job of taking care of it. Most of the remarks were made in response to someone else's post.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 5:31 PM

GoFightWin- No it wouldn't be forgotten.

Posted by Dancer2 on November 20, 2007 at 5:37 PM

Coach, When it is all said and done, it doesn't really matter which team was better. In the total scheme of things the most important thing about this whole situation is that no kids were killed. That is the most important thing of all. This area has lost enough kids to Drinking and Driving. I hope that the kids that were involved (imadethemistake I am challenging you) will get involved and help other kids from making the same mistakes. If you are learning from this one (and I believe you are) help other kids learn to.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 5:39 PM

I thought your coach did a fine job especially with the small numbers he had. Those are just typical Tuscola fans, they see the wrong in everyone else while believing they do no wrong. Good Luck Warriors I hope you win for the kids sake and for the sake of those who were kicked off so those who made the right decision aren't punished. What a story the suspended kids will have to tell their kids in high school. "Well, I would have been a back to back state champion but...I thought drinking was more important." Wow! Good Riddence on this topic. If you can't see the truth by now, you never will!!!

Posted by Coach on November 20, 2007 at 5:39 PM

"and it isnt from someone who was directly there, dont pass it along, because there is a good change that it is probably not true"

Posted by imadethemistake on November 20, 2007 at 5:00 PM

what is the truth? without naming names

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 5:46 PM

It doesn't matter what the truth is because people will fabricate something in their brain to make themselves feel better. People like rumors rather than the truth-it's more juicy and better to talk about. The people that were there know the truth, and besides the officials and administrators, they're the only ones that need to know.

Posted by Tigerlily on November 20, 2007 at 5:49 PM

Fair enough about the no-tolerance response.

I think there has to be more than the threat of stiff penalties involved in these situations. This is not directed solely at Tuscola, but as long as people are just winking at things like this and brushing them off as "cool," they persist.

Until stuff like this is held up as dumb -- again and again and again -- these incidents will continue.

Posted by Wenalway on November 20, 2007 at 5:49 PM

At some point in your kids lives, you have to hope that you have raised them right. These kids are getting to the age where being a parent and becoming a friend to your child is a fine line. I know you will always be a parent, but you have to let them make their own choices and they have to live with it. As a parent/friend just be there to catch them if and when they fall. Doesn't matter if they are 17 or 45.

Posted by Riderpop on November 20, 2007 at 5:50 PM

Once again Coach, I have to disagree with you. I can't speak for the football coach (because I don't know the man), but I do know the AD and the most of the administrators and am confident that the correct steps have been taken and I for one won't subscribe to your conspiracy theory.

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 5:51 PM

Coach. your comment about the final information coming out friday.. 'conveniently' is absurd. nothing about this situation is convenient. you think that they are holding off until after the game? do you not hear yourself? the boys have already been kicked off! there are a select few that havent, but its not like they picked and choose who they kept. every starter that was at the party, has already been kicked off. and besides, it is not under our control when the final report is released. it is the sheriff's. so that remark has nothing to do with 'tuscola getting away anything'. that is all on the police.

Posted by imadethemistake on November 20, 2007 at 5:51 PM

imadethemistake, you are quite correct. It is under the control of the sheriff, not the administration.

Posted by Arthurmom on November 20, 2007 at 5:56 PM

I think I may have made a mistake. I was under the impression that there was still a separate AD at Tuscola. It has been brought to my attention that may no longer be the case. My apologies for speaking without all of the information.

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 6:03 PM

A blog that I've started reading I think makes a pretty good statement about some of the fans both (Arcola and Tuscola) drinking around and near the event itself.

http://tuscola.wordress.com

Posted by Warriors0607 on November 20, 2007 at 6:08 PM

"It doesn't matter what the truth is because people will fabricate something. The people that were there know the truth"

Posted by Tigerlily

Truth doesn't matter? I was asking because imadethemistake has mentioned a couple of times that only those who were there knew the truth. I imadethemistake was there, let's here the truth

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 6:15 PM

warriors0607, that link takes one to a search for dresses

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 6:18 PM

You're picking apart a statement that has to be read as a whole. Truth doesn't matter to outsiders.

Posted by Tigerlily on November 20, 2007 at 6:19 PM

I'm not sure imadethemistake owes any of us an explaination of what went on. Nor do I feel he needs to defend himself to a public forum!

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 6:21 PM

My apologies. http://tuscola.wordpress.com

I was missing the p in press. maybe next time I should just copy and paste. Thanks.

Posted by Warriors0607 on November 20, 2007 at 6:22 PM

I completely agree, Familyman. I have been in a similar situation myself, and completely feel for imadethemistake.

Posted by Tigerlily on November 20, 2007 at 6:24 PM

If that blog is correct, (I didn't see anything unusual myself) then there was a terrible example set by parents and fans!

Please don't misunderstand, I'm not against legally having a drink occasionally, but to do so at a school event is unexcusable.

I'm not one to try to spread rumors (in fact I think that makes problems many times worse) but that is a sad statement of our community if there was drinking going on at the school! I'd like to hear if anyone positively knew this was taking place.

Posted by Familyman on November 20, 2007 at 6:51 PM

To ALL of the students at TCHS

Whether you were at this celebration or not, You need to all hold your heads up and support the team. Making one mistake does not make you bad. It makes you human, we all make mistakes. Do not listen to those on this message board who only want to drag this issue in the dirt. I hope that everyone who can make it to Memorial Stadium on Friday will show up and support the Warriors and show everyone that the community supports the team. Tuscola can and WILL win on Friday!!!

GO WARRIORS!

Posted by CHowyouAre on November 20, 2007 at 7:03 PM

Very well said. Perfect time for closure.

Posted by Tigerlily on November 20, 2007 at 7:19 PM

Coach, the argument that the 82 team was better than the last two Warrior teams is childish at best.

To everyone else, underage drinking has been a problem ever since the powers that be set a minimum age limit on alcohol consumption. These kids got caught, the only lesson learned was DON'T GET CAUGHT. Thats the reality of this whole situation. For those of you that seem to have a problem with alcohol consumption in general I reffer you to the 18th and 21st ammendments to the Constitution.

I closing I would like to direct this to Coach, My Daddy can beat up your Daddy.

Posted by Exbricklayer on November 20, 2007 at 7:50 PM

if there was drinking going on at the school! I'd like to hear if anyone positively knew this was taking place.

Posted by Familyman

Yes, it was across the street and beyond the fenced area of the field. Maybe a 100 yard alcohol free zone would be appropriate for non private owned areas.

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 8:42 PM

For those of you that seem to have a problem with alcohol consumption in general I reffer you to the 18th and 21st ammendments to the Constitution.

by Exbricklayer

I think most here just would like to see this not get out of control for the youth. No constitutional challenges.

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 8:45 PM

I personally saw it myself at Mount Olive. I did see some drinking all over the place. It was very minimal in the parking lot and across the roads. The problem with even doing it across the road from there is you're still setting an example. I'm not saying you can't do it. Sure you have every right to drink a beer because of the constitution. For the same reason I have the right to walk up to every person I meet and tell them how they're the stupidest person I've ever met, but common decency tells me to do otherwise. I know that's an extreme situation, but seriously, can you honestly say that it's appropriate to get loaded before a high school event. There's nothing wrong with even having a beer or a glass of wine before a game I guess, but doing it openly and publicly in front of underage fans entering and leaving the school seems wildly inappropriate in my opinion.

Posted by Warriors0607 on November 20, 2007 at 8:54 PM

Yes, it was across the street and beyond the fenced area of the field. Maybe a 100 yard alcohol free zone would be appropriate for non private owned areas.

Posted by tuscola2

I wasn't at the game, but for you to admit to turning a blind eye to this makes you as guilty as these blatent violators. Public intoxication is still against the law, next time dont be a coward.

Posted by Exbricklayer on November 20, 2007 at 9:53 PM

So NONE of you have ever drank in front of your children...at an Applebee's when kids were present...??? All of the "Holy-er than Thou" and PERFECT people on this website amaze me...give it a rest, the team has moved on from this issue, can't you all find something else to talk about or are your lives really that boring and pointless?

GO WARRIORS!!!!

Posted by jwilliams on November 20, 2007 at 9:58 PM

I just do it to antagonize the ignorant, I'm bored.

Posted by Exbricklayer on November 20, 2007 at 10:00 PM

It's time to move on. I've been amazed at some of these postings as well. It's being dealt with.

Go Warriors!! Warrior Pride!

Posted by TWfan on November 20, 2007 at 10:13 PM

Didnt this start as a discussion on the incident? Now I read about fans drinking at games, abusive coaches, one year team is better than this year, tuscola has no class and on and on and on. Now if you put all these people in the same room that grip about all this you wouldn't hear a work because then they would have to be present and everyone would know who they are. Yicks. Go Warriors and Good Luck this Friday. Ill be there to support you and so will thousand more. Now I am done reading this crap between everyone. Bye Bye

Posted by WOODY on November 20, 2007 at 10:32 PM

I wasn't at the game, but for you to admit to turning a blind eye to this makes you as guilty as these blatent violators. Public intoxication is still against the law, next time dont be a coward.

Posted by Exbricklayer

Dear ding dong I said I saw drinking, not intoxicated people or out of control drunkeness. Typical reactionary comment. What about their constituional rights you wanted to protect earlier?

Posted by tuscola2 on November 20, 2007 at 10:54 PM

First off, this discussion is going in the wrong direction. Instead of trying to openly discuss a countrywide problem, we have been reduced to bashing Tuscola's coach, arguing over what past team was the best, and finger pointing. These kids made a bad choice and are being punished, end of story. You can continue to talk conspiracy and lay blame, but it acomplishes nothing.

What we should be talking about is what can be done in the FUTURE to address underage drinking. I have young children, and I worry about what I will be able to do to keep them from making the same bad choices.

On another note, good luck Warriors, I'm with you all the way.

Posted by TuscolaFan on November 21, 2007 at 12:03 AM

The amount of points scored has nothing to do with who gets the home field. If you are going to put it on paper know what your talking about.

Posted by JustLooking on November 21, 2007 at 8:17 AM

I think the issue here is not what town these kids were from, although I think Tuscola may have a larger problem with underage drinking than others, it is what behavior we tolerate from our student athletes. The Gazette ran an article not too long ago discussing all the professional athletes who have had serious run-ins with the law. I truly believe that the mentality that I am a star athlete and therefore I "can do no wrong" is fostered very young. Perhaps if high schools held their athletes to "training rules" and did not look the other way because they are a vital part of the team maybe we could get this problem under control. I may not always support Coach Weinke's decisions, but I am proud of him for standing strong on this one. We need to teach these teenage athletes that they will be held responsible their behavior. They certainly get plenty of positive feedback when they do good. I am sorry guys(and girls) but you are young adults now, live with the consequences of your actions.

Posted by momoftwo on November 21, 2007 at 10:36 AM

Very sad situation! Most schools have a guilty by association policy. Are all kids being punished that were there but not drinking? They should be!!!

Posted by sskieh on November 21, 2007 at 11:15 AM

Coach Wienke: proud of you--go get 'em Friday.

Posted by tburk on November 21, 2007 at 1:11 PM

To start off, I think that these boys obviously made a huge mistake. What they did was out of line, and they definitely deserve to be punished. No question about it. Saying that&

I completely agree with jwilliams. I am also very involved with the boys who did get caught. I know first-hand how these boys feel, from the moment that they were busted. Do you not realize how bad they feel about letting down their teammates, coaches, families, friends, and community? Everywhere they go, they know they are being looked down upon. They can't even walk into the public eye without being judged. But that's right, you probably have no idea how it feels, because you have never been caught. Everyone makes mistakes, but it is basically all a matter of luck. I know some underage drinkers who have gotten 3 tickets and lost their licenses, and others who get drunk every weekend and never get caught. I personally can relate to these boys. I know how it feels when everyone stares and talks about you just because you make one mistake. But it seems to me that you all are perfect and have never broken the law. But to be quite honest, all this gossiping and these rumors do not make anything better! So why even do it? These boys know what they did was wrong, and they are accepting their punishment. Not once have they pointed fingers at any other person. If they can accept it, why can't everyone else just get over it? Within a couple of weeks, it's going to be a dead story anyhow. The truth is that there are very few people who under the age of 21, have never tasted a sip of alcohol. It happens everywhere. Tuscola is a town that has an underage drinking problem, LIKE EVERY OTHER TOWN IN THIS COUNTRY! In regards to Lily, I myself have been suspended from Tuscola High School for drinking. I just wanted to clarify that, because it seems to me that you think Tuscola isnt tough enough. Well, obviously they are!

Tuscola's football program is a very strong and successful one, and I think that if people can let those who are still playing concentrate on the game, they will do just fine!

Posted by warrioralum on November 21, 2007 at 3:05 PM

Being Stan Wienke's daughter, I have just a few things to say. First of all, for all of you who think the rest of the team should not be punished for what the others did, i completely agree with you. I would personally be extremely upset if i found out that both of my brothers and my dad were being punished for the actions of a few kids who knew exactly what they were doing when they made that choice. second of all, to coach, you are completely out of like by even bringing anything up about my dad and his coaching methods. seems to me that everyone on here is saying that tuscola people need to crack down on drinking and be harder on everyone. but you are putting down my dad for doing exactly that and saying that he is only doing it because he has to. you obviously don't know him very well if you can actually talk yourself into believing all of the stuff you are saying about him. and as for my dads attitude, if you are a coach then you must know how frustrating it can he to get teenage kids to listen to you and play as a team. i dont think he has ever done anything that any other coach who is passionate about what they are doing, would not do. he coached me in basketball and acted the same way that he does in football and we were better players and had more respect for him for it. you are the one being a tyrant in this whole situation by going on and on about him and his coaching methods when that is not even the topic of this discussion. and as for your comment about him risking my brothers career just so that we could beat a team worse than we already are. you are nuts. my family is extremely proud of my brother for everything that he has accomplished and i know that my dad would never purposefully put his career in jeapordy. seriously, i can only take so much of hearing how terrible of a person my dad is before something has to be said. he has nothing to do with the decision that those boys decided to make, however he did have to do with seeing through their punishment. so how about you stop pretending that you are in my dads head and know exactly what he is thinking and keep your comments to yourself.

Posted by jo on November 21, 2007 at 5:31 PM

And GO WARRIORS!!! I know you will be great on Friday!

Posted by jo on November 21, 2007 at 5:33 PM

"The Gazette ran an article not too long ago discussing all the professional athletes who have had serious run-ins with the law. I truly believe that the mentality that I am a star athlete and therefore I "can do no wrong" is fostered very young."

Take the News-Gazette's advice with a grain of salt. This is the same newspaper that blows high school sports WAY out of proportion. If anyone should be discussing people they'd like to have dinner with, it should be the scholars, not the athletes. (In some cases, those groups do overlap.)

Of course, this won't change because the N-G wants to sell papers, and people will complain if things aren't as they "always have been."

Nevertheless, the N-G has no business calling for "proper perspective" when it comes to prep sports.

Posted by Wenalway on November 21, 2007 at 6:53 PM

"I would personally be extremely upset if i found out that both of my brothers and my dad were being punished for the actions of a few kids who knew exactly what they were doing when they made that choice."

Well said. Too many people want to punish everyone before they punish anyone.

Posted by Wenalway on November 21, 2007 at 6:57 PM

In my opinion Coach Wienke has always been a man of great character. I played for him way back in 1982 and still remember that he made us take responsibility for our actions on and off the field and he was often there to remind us of what was expected of us as students and athletes.

Underage drinking has been an issue for decades. I remember that he had to suspend members of the track team before the state meet. He has been making the right decisions for our children, schools and communities for years as Coach and AD. Can you even image how many students/athletes he has coached and taught in the past 25 years.

Now 25 years later as a parent,I know that my childen sometimes make choices that aren't safe or wise and I do everything I can to make sure they make the right choices. I feel I'm a good parent but realize forces out of my control (peer pressure)sometimes make them stray from making good common sense decisions. They do know that they will be held accoutable for their actions.

We all realize that teenagers like to tune us out as parents. I have found that my sons would much rather listen to their coach talk than to me.

If I lived in Tuscola and my sons were on Coach Wienke's team, I would feel good knowing that he is sincerely concerned about them as athletes but as individuals too.

Thanks for everything Coach Wienke and Good Luck friday.

Posted by TrojanSportsfan on November 21, 2007 at 9:45 PM

Jo- I appreciate the spirit in your words, the unfortunate thing is they are words wasted. The negative commentators are not interested in the problem, they only see this as an opportunity to air their grudges at being beat by the great teams your father has been instrumental in forming. And who knows how long ago that was- last week, 10 years ago? My point is, anyone that would hold on to such a silly grudge for long is not worth wasting your time on.

I somewhat know your family and I know

your dad would never sacrifice the health of any of his kids for a game. Nor any of the kids he is coaching. Your brother is accomplishing his achievements with great focus, great coaching, great parenting and a great attitude. I told my son at the start of his freshman year that if there is anything ever going on that he does not feel like he can come to myself or his father about, to go to Coach Wienke. As intimidating as that might be, after raising 5 kids and being a coach and teacher for so long, he can probably help. I trust your father with my son, not only on the field, but off the field as well. I'm sure I am not the only one that feels that way.

I cannot imagine how he felt when this happened. He has spent so much time with these boys and part of his coaching has been for them to avoid these pitfalls. I know not everyone agrees with what your father does, as for myself- I don't second guess him. He has not spent a lifetime doing this and acheiving the results he has without some mistakes, but he is wise enough to learn from them. I hope the same for these boys.

As hard as it is to hear this stuff, blow it off and just concentrate on the people who appreciate your father as a coach and a human being. We believe in our coach and we believe in our team!!!

Posted by WarriorFan on November 22, 2007 at 9:39 AM

Thanks WarriorFan for your post, it is nice to hear something good every once in a while. and i completely agree with you, i knew that my words would be lost on a lot of people because there are so many ignorant people out there that could never possibly be wrong. you just hear so many terrible things about your family and the only thing that makes you feel better is to say something. i just hope that "coach" (and everyone who agrees with him) never has to deal with the scrutiny that my dad has been under all of his coaching career. and if it should happen, i feel sorry for your kids and the rest of your families when they have to deal with it as well.

Posted by jo on November 22, 2007 at 10:48 AM

While reading all these posts this week has been entertaining...the issue is PAST. The kids that were suspended are good kids, punished appropriately...Period. The kids that will be on the field on Friday are very talented and FOCUSED kids, they will be fine and they will win...period. Coach Wienke (and the entire Wienke family) are class people and Coach is VERY GOOD at what he does, both as a coach and as a "father figure" to these boys...he is a man I would want my kids play...period. John Wienke is one of the best high school QBs that I've have seen and, more importantly, he is one of the BEST individuals (at any age) that I have ever met...period. Everyone give it a rest and stay tuned for the Warriors to hoist their 2nd State Championship on Friday. It's been a long, long week but it's time....I'm ready for some football.

(wouldn't it be fun to watch "coach" make his comments to Jo, face to face...that would be fun to watch).

GO WARRIORS!!!

Posted by jwilliams on November 22, 2007 at 6:58 PM

"The kids that were suspended are good kids ..."

Who broke the law and violated the trust of their teammates, coach and school, all to show how "cool" they were. There's nothing noble and good about this; please don't insult our intelligence by claiming there is.

Posted by Wenalway on November 23, 2007 at 12:19 AM

Wenalway, this is not a life defining moment for those involved. They are young and either have or will learn from it. Is there a generation of teenagers where some have not strayed from the advice of their elders?

Posted by tuscola2 on November 23, 2007 at 6:25 AM