CHICOPEE, Mass. — Elms College Director of Athletics Dr. Michael Theulen of Chikopee and formerly of Perry threw the ceremonial first pitch at the Elms College home opener, and he even gave it a Perry curve.
“This was my impression of Perry softball great Don Bailey!” Theulen said. Bailey, the nephew of legendary Perry Daily Chief sportswriter Harold Bailey, is a member of the Iowa Softball of Hall Fame and the Des Moines Softball Hall of Fame.
Theulen was appointed to the Elms College directorship in February. He most recently served as the director of athletics at nearby Western New England University for 19 years. During that time, he also served two stints as the school’s head men’s basketball coach (2004-2008, 2011-2015).
Theulen holds a Doctor of Physical Education from Springfield College, a master’s degree in Physical Education Administration from the University of South Dakota, and a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Coaching from Keene State. Prior to working at Western New England, he was a faculty member in physical education and a coach at Springfield College.
Mike is the son of former Perry Mayor Glenn Theulen. His mother, Sharon, still resides in the community, and Mike is a frequent visitor to Perry and is an ex officio member of the Society of Retired Experts (SORE), which meets regularly at the Perry Perk coffeehouse.
