Coach Bahrke encourages his athletes and students to go the extra mile. He’s seen as a partner—warming up with athletes before a meet and helping his business education students understand best teaching practices.
Red Raider
A 2001 alumnus of Northwestern, Coach Bahrke graduated with degrees in business education and accounting. As a college athlete, he was a three-time NAIA All-American—a distinction he has helped numerous Raider athletes achieve.
Top teacher
He also holds a master’s degree in teaching from the University of Saint Mary. In 2004 he received Outstanding New Secondary Business Teacher Recognition from the Iowa Business Education Association. He says his goal is to help athletes understand the best way to train and to help student teachers understand the best way to teach.
Devoted + disciplined
Students describe Coach Bahrke as disciplined, encouraging and a wonderful mentor. Whether he is preparing student teachers for the business classroom or coaching student-athletes, he seeks to provide constructive feedback in a way that is kind and thoughtful. Students also say they are grateful that he challenges them to strive for Christ-centered excellence.
Recreational runner
On a balmy summer morning, you’ll find him running on Orange City’s Puddle Jumper or Dunlop trails. He also enjoys training alongside athletes at practice when time allows, and he warms up with them on the infield during meets. Occasionally, he competes independently to keep his competitive edge sharp.
