Shadyside Playoffs Possibly in Jeopardy - WTRF-TV

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SHADYSIDE, Ohio -- It's high school football playoff time and in Shadyside a possible teacher's strike is looming.

Shadyside Superintendent Terry Brinker and Head Coach Mark Holenka both said regardless of a strike, Saturday's playoff game will go on.

Teachers are asking for a salary increase, but so far the two sides have been unable to agree.

Superintendent Brinker has hired the firm Huffmaster to secure and staff the school and said classes and after school activities, including the game, will continue as usual.

"The board has taken steps to keep our schools open and operating," said Brinker.

The Shadyside Tigers are set to take on the Grove City Christian Eagles at 1 p.m. Nov. 14, but officials said if players don't show up to school Friday they won't be allowed to play.

"It would make an unexcused absence and it would make you ineligible to play on the football team, cheering, and band," said Brinker.

Holenka said he understands that many of his player's parents are strong union people, but hopefully they can understand to send their kids to school because if not he has to follow the rules.

"We haven't come across a plan yet, our mind is focused on football, but it's gonna have to be addressed and we're gonna tell the kids to try to get yourself there," said Holenka.

Holenka's team continues to prepare for Saturday's game, but most residents say the entire situation is bad for the players and the community.

Long-time Shadyside resident George Littleton said he is worried about the student's education.

"It's a shame it comes down to this. I feel sorry for staff, teachers, and the administration. The issue shouldn't be where it is now," said Littleton.

WHERE ARE THE VISIONARY LEADERS IN SHADYSIDE? IT IS ALL ABOUT 'ME'-AND THAT IS FROM BOTH THE TEACHERS AND THE ADMINISTRATION. THE STUDENTS WILL REMEMBER THIS FOR THE REST OF THEIR LIVES AND THEY WILL REMEMBER THOSE WHO DESTROYED THIS MEMORABLE EVENT!! SHAME!!!!!

You are right. It will be from the narrow minded union workers.

Why would any of you think that the game is in jepordy? The coaches have only been a part of their own team and have demonistrated all along that they do not support their own union (and then there is Grinch who has forgotten his roots.) What parent in a big football town would deny this for their kid. Most kids this age are only thinking a possible day off from school anyway not how a strike would effect their community. But look out, if the team loses, that will be teachrs fault too. How conveinent.

The teachers do put the children first, but do you not worry about paying your bills along with taking care of your kids?? Think about how much the "cost of living" has increased in 5 years...You are right, it would be a shame for the team to go down in defeat, but it won't be because of "GREEDY" teachers.

It will be a shame for the team and all involved to go down in defeat because of greedy teachers. Teachers used to put the children first but as we have seen not only in Shadyside but other schools the teachers only think of themselves. Unions have no place in schools or the Medical field. I just hope the people and teachers all sleep well this weekend.

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