SW Metro Boys Athlete of the Week: Parker Bjorklund
The step from role player to key leader and contributor has been as seamless as you could ask for when talking about guys on the Chaska Hawks hoops squad. This week’s winner of SW Metro Athlete of the Week, Parker Bjorklund, is one of the varsity returners on a team that has been ranked most of the season in Class AAAA and scored some great wins along the way.
”Our season so far has had its ups and downs but I’m happy with the progress we’ve made,” Parker told NHR. “One highlight of our year was coming back and beating Lakeville North after being down at halftime.”
Chaska is currently 15-5 with three weeks to go in the regular season. Victories over Lakeville North, Edina and Delano highlight the great potential this team possesses. For a relatively inexperienced group, the schedule thrown at these players has been challenging but rewarding, and Parker realizes that.
“A lot of basketball is mental, so being confident helps us play well against some of the top teams.”
Parker’s senior season has been a great success alongside junior forward Cole Nicholson and elite role guys Matt Eliason and Conner Krenos. His increased confidence and abilities are giving him local college interest on a consistent basis.
“I’ve been getting looks from St. Thomas, Hamline, Gustavus, and some other D3 colleges. Still not sure what I’m doing yet,” Parker added.
Congratulations Parker! Watch out for Chaska in the section 2AAAA playoffs!