Kessler takes leave as North skid continues
December 28, 2006
By BILL SKOWRONSKI Staff Writer

(but it wasn't what it looks like)

Niles North hit a bit of a skid recently, dropping three straight as it headed for a brief two-day break this week. The Vikings lost their second game of the Warren Blue Devil Classic on Saturday 27-13 to Carmel. That loss came two days after Niles North dropped its tournament opener against Palatine 36-24.

The recent slide has coincided with a few changes at Niles North (6-10, 3-2 in the Central Suburban League North division), including assistant coach Heather Fitzgerald taking over the team for Joel Kessler. The head coach requested a leave of absence for personal reasons and was granted one by athletic director Karl Costello.

"It was (Kessler's) call," Costello said. "We're very happy with his job performance, he's a good man and a good teacher. We're hoping he'll return to the team sooner or later."

Fitzgerald herself experienced a bit of relative success in leading Niles North to a girls softball regional championship in the spring and has worked with Kessler and the varsity team all season as an assistant. In addition to promoting freshman forward Angie Walinski, Fitzgerald has instituted a few changes in the team's offensive game plan.

"I'm very proud of the kids right now," Fitzgerald said. "We've changed the offensive scheme a bit and they're running it well. We've been trying to get the bigger girls better looks. Breannah has done a good job adjusting and Angie has stepped right in and had no problems. The offense is flowing well and she fits in with the game plan." -end-

My favorite line from above:


Implying if you dont know much about sports...thinking the big girls need to look better!