Marist Dedicates New Gym Floor Honoring Dan Garvey, Gene Nolan, Paul Simmons

CHICAGO – Thousands of gym shoes will soon be pounding the new gym floor honoring three Marist High School legends. The high school proudly unveiled its newly renovated gym floor last Friday with a blessing from Fr. Tom Hurley ‘85.

The ceremony honored legendary Marist basketball coaches Dan Garvey and Gene Nolan ’92, whose names are now permanently enshrined on the court, and paid tribute to Paul Simmons ’11, a beloved alumnus who tragically passed away during his senior year.

The new court represents the completion of a major campus improvement project, first announced in 2024. Originally installed in 1963, the gym floor served generations of athletes, students, and fans before undergoing a full renovation to meet the needs of today’s RedHawks.

“This court holds decades of memories and will continue to serve as a foundation for student-athletes for generations to come,” Marist President Larry Tucker ’79, said in a news release. “It is fitting that we honor Coach Garvey, Coach Nolan, and Paul Simmons here, where their impact and spirit continue to inspire.”

Honoring Coach Dan Garvey

Coach Dan Garvey, who passed away in September 2023, was the first men’s basketball coach in Marist history and one of the school’s earliest lay employees. Over his 35-year career, he became a mentor and role model to generations of Marist students. A generous donor, who wished to remain anonymous, ensured Coach Garvey’s legacy would live on by naming the new gym floor in his honor.

Honoring Coach Gene Nolan ’92

A 1992 graduate of Marist, Coach Gene Nolan is the school’s all-time winningest basketball coach. After a record-setting career as a Marist student-athlete and at Washington University in St. Louis, Nolan returned to his alma mater as a teacher and head basketball coach. During his 18-year tenure, he led the RedHawks to ten 20-win seasons, six regional championships, and left a legacy of leadership, integrity, and excellence.

Remembering Paul Simmons ’11

The unveiling also included a special tribute to Paul Simmons ’11, who passed away during his senior year due to an undiagnosed heart condition. His name now rests on the gym floor alongside those of Garvey and Nolan, ensuring his memory continues to inspire the Marist community. Paul’s mother was present at the unveiling ceremony, making the tribute especially meaningful.

The new gym floor not only enhances Marist’s athletic facilities but also stands as a symbol of the school’s Tradition of Excellence, faith, and community spirit.