It was 26 years ago when Michael Bakken, a special education physical education teacher, began teaching in St. Cloud Area School District. He became a teacher because of his love for kids.
“I was inspired by a physical education teacher many years ago and decided that’s what I wanted to do,” explains Bakken.
Happenstance put him on the special education track. He had been hired as a full-time teacher a few days prior to the start of the new school year and he received a phone call asking if he could do some of his hours with special education students. Over the years, that time gradually increased into full-time with special education.
That’s when the idea for an adaptive sports program started brewing.
Nearly 19 years ago, Bakken took notice that students with disabilities needed a competitive outlet with their peers like those of other students without disabilities. So, he approached Apollo’s then activities director, Jim Michaud, and District 742’s school board about starting an adaptive sports program.
“The idea was for kids to have the opportunity to compete amongst peers,” reflects Bakken. “I pursued it with the parents and then the school board and it was approved in 2000.”
The program was the first of its kind in Central Minnesota.
The adaptive sports program started with floor hockey. Three years later adaptive soccer began and then adaptive softball in 2007-2010. Funding for softball was lost until recently. It was refunded in 2016.
The adaptive sports are available for 7-12 grade students and are a school collaboration with Tech, Sartell and Sauk Rapids.
Over the years, just like any sport, there have been some good teams and runs. The adaptive floor hockey team are reigning state champs and the 2018 adaptive softball team also became state champions.
“Giving them the opportunity to play is so important,” says Bakken.
Students love the program so much, many come back after graduation and become managers for the team.
“I even have one student from 10 years ago that helps manage the team,” says Bakken.
Bakken’s effort hasn’t gone unnoticed. Bakken was named the Adapted Coach of the Year in 2017-18. He was also named the Times Media Coach of the Year in 2018.
“I still have the energy and passion for doing this,” states Bakken. “If you haven’t seen a game, you need to come. They play for the sheer love of the game. It’s great to watch.”
Bakken is excited for the upcoming seasons and hopes to see as many fans as possible.
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