Brooklyn Park Hosts Twins Fantasy Camp for Adaptive Athletes

Young Twins fans got a home run of a deal in Brooklyn Park Friday morning. At the third annual Minnesota Twins Fantasy Camp, kids with intellectual and physical disabilities played an exciting game of adaptive softball.

Each kid got the chance to hit the ball and run the bases. They also practiced different baseball and softball skills in groups earlier that morning.

Todd Anderson Field in Brooklyn Park hosted the event. Built in 2012, it’s the only wheelchair softball field in Minnesota.

“It’s a great way for them to be able to come together, participate with peers that are like them who may need some additional supports as well,” said Erin Bonikowske, Brooklyn Park’s adaptive recreation specialist.

The Brooklyn Park Recreation and Parks Department, the Minnesota Twins and the Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute put on the camp. Courage Kenny offers both inpatient and outpatient services. It also works with the city of Brooklyn Park to make its services more accessible.

A fantasy camper crosses home plate.

Courage Kenny also sponsors the Rolling Twins, Minnesota’s successful wheelchair softball team. 

Sports Specialist Megan Welty said it’s great for there to be accessible, competitive athletics at any level. This clinic is just the beginning.

“One of the things about adaptive sports is that everybody deserves to play. We all know that team sports and activities are just so important to our mental health and well-being,” Welty said.

At the end of the camp, the Twins Community Fund donated 16 youth sport wheelchairs to Courage Kenny. Welty said those will be lent to kids who participate in their programming.

Kids and their families also got tickets to see the Twins play this weekend.

This year is the fantasy camp’s biggest yet. Welty said originally there was space for 25 kids, but interest was so high, they made room for 50.

The event is also a part of Brooklyn Park’s Adaptive Rec Friday series. There are more events coming up throughout the summer.

After kids run the bases, they head to cheer in the outfield.

Brooklyn Park