Ken Bird – Athlete
”Scooter”, a term used when Ken Bird played junior hockey for the Prince Albert Mintos, is an apt description of his life in sports.
Bird was known as a member of the “Scooter Line” with linemates Bill Swarbrick and Dale Sweeny. As an athlete, Bird “scooted” from sport to sport, invariably finding success.
As a hockey player, Bird moved from the Prince Albert Lions juvenile hockey team to the Prince Albert Junior Mintos where he played from 1949 to 1952. The 1950 Mintos captured the Saskatchewan Hockey League Championship and then went on to win the Northern Alberta and British Columbia championships.
The same year saw Bird enjoy provincial success as a pitcher with the Melfort Junior Legion baseball team that captured the Saskatchewan championship. Bird played with the Prince Albert Anavets and Bohemian baseball clubs from 1949 – 52.
Bird also excelled in track and field, tennis, ski jumping and rifle shooting as a young man, winning numerous championships, setting a host of records – including a pole vault mark that stood for 44 years.
Golf has been a continuing passion for Bird as a competitor, coach and builder. Bird has captured several golf championships in various competitions; has been involved in the organization of many events; and with his wife Mary Lou, built a unique family and senior-oriented par-three golf course north of Christopher Lake.
The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame is pleased to induct Ken Bird in the athlete category.Inducted into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame in 2001.
