2006 World Broomball Championships

The Minnesota Hitmen competed in the World Broomball Championships October 31st – November 4th, 2006 at the Schwan’s Super Rink in Blaine, MN. All in all, it was a great week of broomball. They faced some pretty competitive Canadian teams (8th Liners, Selkirk Hawks, Snipers, Lethbridge Panthers, and the Golden Boys) and had a great time playing the Australians (thanks for the jerseys, guys). They ended up 2-1-4 in pool play. In the first round of playoffs, they lost 1-0 in overtime to the Lethbridge Panthers. Bryan Pikal led the team in total points (5) and Ta Ho led the team in goals (2). As usual, Woody Stauffacher was awesome between the pipes, only giving up four goals in eight games. One highlight of the tournament for the team was playing Wednesday against the Snipers for the students from Richfield High. The fans seemed to have a great time watching the team play the red-line, checking style of game. Thanks to all the fans that came out to support the team during the tournament!

Hitmen Represent Richfield

The Spartan broomball tradition was carried to the world stage when Minnesota Hitmen competed for the Challenge Cup at the World Tournament. The Hitmen are stacked with Spartans – twelve Richfield graduates in all. From the 80’s they have Pete Kraker, Paul Lindstrom and Paul Gregersen. Graduates from the 90’s include Jeff Denesen, Kevin Denesen, Jim Lunderby, Mike Schwalen, Jon Bushey and Matt Karnas. Ta Ho and Matt Moseley represent the 00’s and the coach, Don Westergard, was a graduate of the 60’s. The Hitmen were featured in their hometown paper, the Richfield Sun Current.

Front Row: Ta Ho, Kevin Denesen, Jeff Denesen, Jim Lunderby
Back Row: Mike Schwalen, Paul Lindstrom, Paul Gregersen, Jon Bushey, Pete Kraker
Not Pictured: Matt Karnas, Matt Moseley, Don Westergard (Coach)