By Stella Dolan
Published 3:39 p.m. on Oct. 8, 2024
As soon as he arrived at Bemidji State College, Cy Champa’s life on the farm turned into life on the field. And now, 65 years later, he stands on the exact same ground that once shaped him.
“I feel very fortunate to be back here,” Champa said of his return to Chet Anderson Stadium. “If it wasn’t for Bemidji State, I’d probably still be milking cows right now. They gave me an education and a real good career.”
Raised in central Wisconsin, Champa channeled his farm skills into a strong work ethic that eventually paved a path to new outlets at Bemidji State. Champa earned a reputation as a distinguished three-sport athlete from 1957 to 1959, earning accolades in football, wrestling and baseball.
His journey came full circle during the Homecoming football game on Sept. 28, when the 87-year-old Champa was celebrated as the team’s honorary captain.
“I got so much from Bemidji State,” he said. “I was a farm boy that milked cows. I came here and was able to get my education, play in sports and do a lot.”
And at this stage in his life, he’s emphasized helping new students in the way he was helped. Champa recently documented a legacy gift, which is a planned gift made through an individual’s estate planning that allows them to leave a lasting impact at BSU.
“I want to help some kid go to college, just like BSU helped me,” he said. “I was fortunate enough to win an academic award in ‘57 and ‘58. I got a good education, and I want to give back.”
Champa’s time at BSC was marked by significant achievements as a three-sport athlete. He earned two letters in football, serving as an offensive guard and linebacker. His performance led to his selection as the “Outstanding Lineman” by his teammates in both 1958 and 1959, and he contributed to the team’s conference championship in 1957. In wrestling, he lettered for two years and placed second in the NIC conference meet in 1959. In baseball, Champa was the catcher for the 1958 squad, leading the lineup with a .324 batting average.
“Back in the ‘50s, you could play more sports,” Champa said. “I liked football in the fall and baseball in the spring.”
After graduating from BSC in 1959 with a degree in physical education and science, Champa embarked on an illustrious coaching career. In 1968, he restarted the football program at Rochester Community and Technical College and coached until 1985. Champa compiled an impressive 132-27 record, guiding the Yellowjackets to six state championships and 17 division titles. His teams made seven bowl appearances, and he coached 39 All-Americans during his tenure.
Champa’s contributions to the sport were recognized when he was inducted into the NJCAA Coaching Hall of Fame in 2001, further showcasing his legacy in Minnesota athletics. He was also honored with the Rochester Sports Coaches Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, celebrating his dedication and impact on young athletes in the region.
And finally, this year, he was invited back to his Bemidji State campus as Homecoming’s honorary captain. From humble beginnings as a farm boy to achieving athletic success at Bemidji State, Champa’s journey reflects a life revolutionized by the university.
“I appreciate very much being selected for this honor,” he said. “Now, I want to give back so that others can have that same chance.”
