When thinking of the history of AHA sports, images of Larry Fitzgerald, Emmett Johnson, or soccer state championships come to mind. Not many know, however, that AHA was home to one of the greatest park league basketball teams in Minnesota history. 

The Goblinz, coached by Steve Katalinich and Matt Jelinek, played in the Minneapolis U17 Park Basketball League in the winter of 2022-23. Representing Pearl Park, the Goblinz posted a record of 2 wins, 3 losses, and a league record of 3 ties. Center Jacob Pung ‘23 led the team in points and rebounds, while Adam Katalinich ‘23 led the team in assists. Guards Connor Jo ‘23, Matej Jelinek ‘23, Evan Stensland ‘23, and Matthew Foley ‘23, along with free agent signings Colin McCartan ‘23 and Ben Wilhoit ‘23, provided an offensive spark. Newcomers Max Dufresne, Jude Guilliatt ‘23, Ryan McGuire ‘23, Griffin Moe ‘23, and Michael Laux ‘23 had big games of their own, with Moe scoring his first ten points of the season in a 38-31 win.

Peaks and valleys defined the Goblinz’ season. Pung was ejected from the first game of the season for touching the rim before a 47-18 blowout loss. After matching the undefeated Red Bears through the first half, they collapsed in the second half in a 63-40 loss. On the flip side, in a game where the Goblinz had to coach themselves while their coaches were out of town, the team mounted a 21-point comeback with under six minutes left to tie Lynnhurst. The team wasn’t able to make the playoffs due to spring break (an excuse for being overqualified).

While the season may be over, the memories from the Goblinz players and die-hard fans will last forever. To forward McGuire, the season’s defining moment came in the last game. Laux, who had been scoreless all season, drained a free throw with under a minute left. The bench and bleachers went crazy, providing a wild finish to a memorable season.