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In a letter to Hickman, Chicago schools Chief of Staff Robert Boik said the strike could force game forfeits that may jeopardize playoff and championship opportunities and even the academic success of students whose college education may depend on athletic scholarships. In their world, sports are part of a bigger plan for improving their lives and livelihood. "It's the way I'm going to help my family in the future," Daniels said. "Football is a part of my life. I really can't live without it." A prolonged strike could have the greatest impact on football. High schools are required to play nine games to be considered for state playoffs. District officials said there are plans to make up missed games, but that gets more complicated by IHSA rules that specify the number of practices before games resume. The longer the strike drags on, the longer the hold on resumed play. "I'm trying to take football as far as I can take it," said Antonio Posey, a junior playing for Foreman. "I really want my shine to be now, and for it to follow me through senior year. This strike is messing up a lot that I had planned for the season." Though the IHSA denied the school district's request for a waiver, there is a rule that would allow the Chicago school board to approve sports practices with credentialed staff. But that might be difficult, since 90 percent of coaches are union members. Hickman isn't surprised to hear that some students are running their own practices. "They've been working hard for months to get ready for the contests. They don't want to let that go," he said. "It's one of the difficult parts for kids to accept when it comes down to a strike. They have no control of this situation."
[Associated
Press;
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