Sokol Omaha

By David Koesters

Published May 24, 2023 at 4:00 PM CDT

A brief look at the history of Sokol in Omaha and its gymnastics legacy that lives on in Nebraska. Founded in 1862 in what is now the Czech Republic, Sokol focused on athleticism and physical education with the principle of a strong mind in a sound body. Sokol's influence spread through Eastern Europe and parts of the United States wherever Czech immigrants settled.

Special thanks to Janet Raddish, Chuck Chmelka, and Phil Cahoy Jr. for sharing their Sokol experiences, and to the Douglas County Historical Society for introducing me to the vibrant Sokol history in Omaha at their monthly Second Sunday lecture series.

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David Koesters

David started in broadcasting at his hometown radio station in Holdrege, Nebraska while still in high school. He went on to earn journalism and law degrees from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln and has worked for a number of radio and television stations around the United States. He is a big advocate for community media and loves being a part of the local fabric of NPR. He also has a cat.

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