Two West starters suspended

Two starters on the West High boys varsity basketball team who missed Monday's makeup game at Glenbard North were suspended for a first-time offense of the school's athletic code of conduct according to athletic director Andy Lutzenkirchen.

Seniors Marquis Stewart and Corbin Spearman did not play in the Blackhawks' 49-44 loss. They could be sidelined for the remainder of the season but might also be eligible to return.

Lutzenkirchen refused to give any specifics about the incident that led to the suspension. Coach Gordie Kerkman acknowledged the players had been suspended but refused comment.

Suspension for a first violation is for half the team's season, but that penalty is "reducable to a quarter of the season (not including tournaments) if the student completes an assistance program" that is offered, Lutzenkirchen said.

If that were to happen in this case, the players would be required to sit out five games. They could be eligible to return if the Blackhawks were to advance to the title game of the Willowbrook Regional.

They have served the one game and West has three remaining regular-season games: Friday at West Chicago, Saturday at home against Wheaton North and Wednesday at Glenbard East.

West is scheduled to open post-season play on Feb. 26th against the winner of a play-in game between Wheaton South and Addison Trail. The winner would advance to the Feb. 29th regional final against the winner of the Neuqua Valley vs. Willowbrook.