Adapted sports have generally been regarded as being necessary and important, but not of great interest, yet that attitude could be changing. So, let's dispel some myths about adapted sports:

• Myth No. 1:

  There is no fan interest in adapted sports. According to Minnesota State High School League figures, last winter's state adapted floor hockey tournament drew a record 1,857 paying fans. That's 500 more than two years ago, and interest is growing!

• Myth No. 2:

  They take up more than their share of an athletic budget. Most adapted programs cost little. The biggest expense is transportation, as it is with most sports. And with the explosive growth of adapted bowling, more athletes are getting involved at a minimal cost. "We haven't lost any teams to budget concerns," said Rich Matter, the high school league's director of finance. "Schools have made a large commitment to the program."

See the American Association of Adapted Sports Programs website for additional information: http://www.ncpad.org/666/2808/2003-06-01.

From the Star Tribune, Jim Paulsen, April 17, 2003.