Milwaukee City Wire

Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) is showcasing the transformative power of adaptive physical education, as student-athletes like Joey Goetter and Shevez Johnson take on new roles. Shevez participates in multiple sports at North Division High School, saying, “If I were not an athlete, what would I do?” He emphasizes his dedication, “My work ethic is sick.”

Joey Goetter, a senior at Rufus King International High School, also commits to athletics and excels in gymnastics and bowling competitions. His involvement extends into coaching volleyball through the Milwaukee Public Schools Adaptive Athletics Program, alongside Shevez who has been volunteering since his freshman year. He shares his enthusiasm: “I come because it’s fun, teaching other kids to play volleyball. They’re joyful, playful.”

Adaptive athletics at MPS provides opportunities for students with various disabilities, offering specialized coaching, equipment, and modifications in sports, including basketball and swimming. Milwaukee Rec hosts over 30 adaptive athletics events each year, supported by adaptive physical education specialist teachers. These programs aim to inspire students to pursue sports beyond school, as noted by MPS adaptive athletics coach Roger Masarik: “We hope kids work at a skill in school, come to adaptive athletics events to perfect skills, and go home and ask their families to sign them up for Special Olympics.”

Milwaukee Rec fields Special Olympics Wisconsin teams, providing training and competition in 12 sports. Program coordinator Lyndsay Linsmeier highlights the wider benefits of participation: “The social experience and sense of pride for athletes is just as valuable.”

Teachers and coaches describe these events as key to confidence and community-building. Megan Wolf, a special education teacher, says, “My students don’t get many opportunities to play sports on a level that will work for them.”

At North Division’s volleyball event, student-athletes practice with adapted equipment like lightweight balls, supported by student coaches. The adaptive athletics season began with a bowling event, preparing students for a tournament by teaching lane etiquette and competition levels. Audubon Technology and Communication High School paraprofessional Quinn Waldlington has taken on coaching responsibilities, demonstrating the integration of adaptive PE activities into education.

Adaptive sports serve as important social events for students, especially those from smaller communities, providing opportunities to reconnect with classmates. MPS employee Sherman Dixon observes these interactions, stating, “They’re together again even though they go to different high schools.”

For those interested in competing or participating, Milwaukee Rec offers more information through Brenda Seekins or Lyndsay Linsmeier for educators wishing to introduce adaptive athletics.