By Kavan Peterson | Spark Performance League News Editor
New Rules, Big Shifts, and Unforgettable Moments in Week One
The Forklift Racing season launched with a bang—and a few toppling stacks—as teams across the Spark Performance League (SPL) raced to adapt to a new set of rules and higher-stakes competition. For Lifespark Senior Living Community coaches like Katie Steurnagel of the Whitefish Lakers and Dawn Mans of the Reena Rockers, the week brought both growing pains and glimpses of brilliance as their teams tested strategies, built camaraderie, and—true to Spark spirit—made memories.
Rule Changes Raise the Stakes
This year’s Forklift Racing format introduces a more complex system of “outside corner” stacking zones, stricter bonus round placement, and an emphasis on communication and precision. While many teams welcomed the challenge, it’s clear that the learning curve is steep.
Katie Steurnagel described early confusion during the Lakers’ match against the Chaska Heights Purple Hawks: “We were figuring it out in real time with Paige Taylor [the Hawks’ coach]. We’d stop mid-game to clarify rules—like whether a stack counted if it wasn’t fully outside the boundary box. There was a lot of back and forth.”
The Purple Hawks weren’t alone in offering rule clarification. Katie also drew inspiration from a scrimmage with the Senior Living Loons, where she observed a promising strategy: having two forklifts work the same corner before shifting to another—an approach she plans to test next week.
Strategies in Progress
Both the Lakers and the Rockers focused this week on getting the fundamentals right before escalating their game.
The Lakers fielded a mix of staff and residents, including 100-year-old Jack, who practiced all week using a non-functioning forklift in his apartment. Katie described her coaching strategy as “pro-slow”—guiding residents in real time to build confidence before worrying about speed or score. “We’re not trying to beat the other team. We’re trying to grow participation. If your forklift isn’t perfect, that’s okay. You showed up.”
On the Rockers’ side, Dawn emphasized foundational teamwork. With limited practice time, especially for the intergenerational partners from Crown of Life Christian Academy, she started the team with a simplified 16-box run. “We wanted them to build confidence first,” she said. “And it paid off. By our next practice, they doubled their output.”
Community and Collaboration
The Rockers faced the Sugar Loaf Loafers, coached by Andrea Buswell, in week one and completed 21 stacks after a few hiccups—including forklift malfunctions and bonus round missteps. Still, Dawn praised the Loafers for their sportsmanship and communication: “We were texting afterward, comparing notes on how we interpreted the rules. That collaboration is what Spark is all about.”
Both coaches highlighted their growing cheer sections and Facebook followings. At Whitefish, the Lakers race right in the lobby—drawing curious onlookers, loud laughter, and hallway cheers. “It’s hard not to notice us,” Katie laughed. “We’re loud, proud, and having fun.”
At Reena, the Rockers’ lineup includes Gloria, Nancy, and Pauline, with newcomers John and Doris expressing interest. The younger teammates from Crown of Life Christian Academy and a local homeschooler round out the team, many of whom are still finding their roles—whether as drivers, cheerleaders, or lemonade providers.
Lessons and Looking Ahead
Both coaches agree: the new format demands more guidance, more visual cues, and a sharper focus on safety—especially with tight spaces and moving parts. Dawn noted the importance of spatial awareness and risk management: “You’ve got forklifts, boxes, and people moving in an eight-foot box. It gets crowded fast.”
Despite technical hurdles, rule ambiguity, and nerves, morale remains high. Katie summed it up best: “Be over-the-top excited. Be their cheerleader. If the forklift is nowhere near the target, cheer anyway. That’s what this is about.”
As teams gear up for week two, the competition remains wide open. The Rockers plan to push to 32-box rounds, while the Lakers aim to troubleshoot their red corner and refine communication. One thing is certain: in the Spark Performance League, joy, inclusion, and teamwork are always the winning formula.
