Concordia-Chicago athletics photo

Steve Kollar has been temporarily removed as head men's basketball coach at Concordia-Chicago followed a grueling team practice which he conducted and resulted in five members of the Cougars' team being hospitalized.

According to a report in the Chicago Tribune, six players went to the emergency room with symptoms related to rhabdomyolysis. The syndrome, which can be caused by a muscle injury, releases a damaging protein into the blood, which can damage the heart and kidneys and perhaps cause permanent disability or death.

“Our athletics program has zero tolerance for harassment or retaliatory actions of any kind, and reporting mechanisms are in place for students, coaches and related staff,” athletic director Pete Gnan said.

Over the last week of December, Concordia-Chicago traveled to Southern California and picked up its first two losses of the season, against Cal Lutheran (now 6-6) and Whittier (now 4-9). The team also apparently broke curfew on the trip. According to a letter which CUC athletic director Pete Gnan sent team members and parents, some believe the intensity of the team practice was a consequence of the breaking of curfew.

The Cougars postponed games against Lakeland and Concordia (Wis.) this week. Rashaan Surles is the acting head coach.