Marist High School Honors Legends with Newly Renovated Gym Floor
Marist High School in Chicago recently revealed its newly renovated gym floor, paying tribute to three school legends. The ceremony, which included a blessing from Fr. Tom Hurley '85, honored basketball coaches Dan Garvey and Gene Nolan '92, as well as beloved alumnus Paul Simmons '11, who tragically passed away during his senior year. The gym floor, originally installed in 1963, underwent a full renovation as part of a campus improvement project announced in 2024. The new court now bears the names of Coach Garvey, Coach Nolan, and Paul Simmons, serving as a foundation for future generations of student-athletes.
Coach Dan Garvey, the first men's basketball coach in Marist history, had a 35-year career at the school, impacting countless students. A generous donor ensured Coach Garvey's legacy by naming the new gym floor in his honor. Coach Gene Nolan, a 1992 graduate of Marist, holds the record for the most wins as a basketball coach at the school. His leadership and excellence on and off the court have left a lasting legacy at Marist. The ceremony also paid tribute to Paul Simmons, whose memory continues to inspire the Marist community. His name now graces the gym floor alongside Garvey and Nolan, symbolizing his enduring impact.
The new gym floor not only enhances Marist's athletic facilities but also embodies the school's Tradition of Excellence, faith, and community spirit. It holds decades of memories and serves as a reminder of the dedication and spirit of those who have shaped Marist's athletic program. The unveiling ceremony, attended by Paul Simmons' mother, was a poignant moment that celebrated the legacy of these Marist legends and their contributions to the school's rich history.