Third Hampshire dodgeball tournament set for Feb. 12

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Dundee Middle School PE teacher Mark Scheurich is hit last year during the dodgeball tournament at Hampshire High. | File~Sun-Times Media

Updated: March 6, 2012 8:14AM

HAMPSHIRE — Teams are polishing their throwing and dodging skills in preparation for the third-annual dodgeball tournament from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 12, at Hampshire High School, 1600 Big Timber Road.

The event is being organized by Patti Nihells, Hampshire physical education teacher and coach, and the post-prom committee, along with Hampshire High teachers and staff.

Last year’s event featured 20 teams competing against each other.

Funds raised will go toward post-prom activities and Hampshire High freshman Nick Miller, 14, of West Dundee.

Nick lives with his parents, Andy and Maria, and has three brothers: Timmy, 24; Andy, 20; and Michael, 13.

Nick was diagnosed with leukemia in October 2009, according to his mother. His illness caused him to miss all of seventh grade and half of eighth grade. He goes to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge every four weeks for treatment.

“I think it’s wonderful that people are helping out and supporting us,” Maria said. “It humbles us that people can do this.”

She said her son plans to come to the dodgeball tournament.

The Millers are hockey fans. Andy is a forward for the Chicago Steel, a Tier 1 Junior A hockey team. Michael plays for the Northwest Chargers, a Midget Minor Northern Illinois Hockey League team.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation gave Nick a 40-by-40-foot Flex Court for his backyard. The matting can be used for a variety of sports. Nick likes to use it for playing inline hockey.

For more information, contact Patti Nihells at 847-792-3647; patricia.nihells@d300.org.