Hallberg, Janzen a perfect duo
Male athletes of the week
Whether playing as a team or as individuals, Brian Hallberg and Adam Janzen are simply perfect this year.
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The Aitkin Gobblers tennis players have teamed up twice at No. 1 doubles to gather two wins against Eveleth-Gilbert and Virginia.
Against New York Mills, Hallberg teamed with David Baumgartner for another win while Janzen went solo and picked up a win at No. 3 singles.
"Brian started with little prior tennis experience three years ago and has played at the No. 1 doubles spot along with Adam for the past two seasons, finishing last season with a record of 12-2," said Aitkin head coach Joe Walz. "Brian's biggest improvement is his consistency and knowledge of the game. He has tremendous desire and is naturally aggressive. He possesses great speed and agility."
Adam Janzen
Walz added that the combination helps both.
Janzen's shot selection and excellent serve and volley game often give Hallberg the opportunity to end the game.
"We call him the 'Terminator' because if a high enough ball comes near him when he is at the net, the point's over with a blast that smashes on the court and then sails hopelessly out of reach," Walz said of Hallberg. "We call Adam 'Money in the Bank' because I can always draw on him for a great effort wherever he plays."
Janzen defeated Terry Nelson of Mills 6-2, 6-1 to also remain undefeated. He's 3-0 as a doubles player thanks to a win Tuesday with Roman Haberkorn at No. 1 doubles and 1-0 as a singles player.
"Adam is a take-charge sort of player," said Walz. "He sets the rhythm and intensity of play. He doesn't make any excuses and won't accept any from his partner.
"His ground strokes are very strong, which help them to close on the net, and keep their opponents back. "
Other notable efforts:
Baseball -- Adam Johnson, Staples-Motley, struck out 12 and hit a home run in a shutout victory vs. Pine River-Backus.
Anthony Turk, Little Falls, went 3-for-4 with two runs and two RBI vs. Sauk Rapids.
Golf -- Isaac Landecker, Staples-Motley, won the Mid-Minnesota Conference meet at Wadena.
Cory Wilson, S-M, won the Detroit Lakes Invitational.
Track and field -- Joe Radinovich, Crosby-Ironton, won the 800- and 1600-meter runs at Pequot Lakes.