BHS Hall of Fame inducts new members
(10/07/2024) The 2024 class of the Blaine High School Athletics Hall of Fame celebrated the accomplishments of Nick Bjugstad, John Sundgren and Paul Swanson with an on-field ceremony prior to the Bengal Homecoming football game on Sept. 20.
Nick Bjugstad (‘10)
Nick Bjugstad (‘10) was named Mr, Hockey, Minnesota’s top high school hockey player, along with being named the Associated Press Player of the Year and the Star Tribune’s Metro Player of the Year. Following collegiate success at the University of Minnesota, Bjustad is enjoying a 12 year professional career after being a first-round pick in the National Hockey League (NHL) draft. He is now playing for the NHL’s Utah team where he was honored with the NHL's Man of the Year Award. Unable to attend the awards ceremony due to his NHL commitments, Nick was represented by his mother Janeen, father Mike and grandmother Bertie as part of the recognition program.
John Sundgrem (‘07)
John Sundgren(‘07) received All-state wrestling honors in 2005, 2006, and 2007, amassing 142 wins which is the second most win all-time in school history. His success on the mat continued at St. Cloud State University when he won the NCAA national championship at 157 lbs in 2011 and being named St. Cloud State’s Male Athlete of the Year along with Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference Wrestler of the Year. He has served as an Assistant Wrestling Coach at Blaine High School for the last eight seasons.
Paul Swanson (‘08)
Paul Swanson (‘08) delivered a record of 97-12 including an undefeated record in conference play from his first singles tennis position for the Bengals. Paul finished as runner-up twice and collected a third place finish at the Minnesota State Tournament as was named all-state three years and all-conference for all four years at Blaine. Swanson completed at the collegiate level at Division 1 Wisconsin-Green Bay, becoming all-time singles win learer in school history and four-time Horizon League All-Conference, leading his team to their first ever conference championship and an NCAA tournament bid.
More information: Visit ahschools.us/BHSHallofFame for additional information on the recipients along with information on how to nominate prospective members for consideration.