Jim Henkemeyer

By John Hepokoski
UWRF Sports Information

Influenced by his father, Mike, at the age of three, Jim Henkemeyer began his hockey career.

The future Falcon hockey player grew up with both parents and two sisters and Henkemeyer says they all get along great.

"I just enjoyed spending time at the rink with my buddies," said Henkemeyer of his childhood memories.

Henkemeyer attended St. Cloud Apollo High School where he earned all-conference honors.

Bismarck was the next stop for the 5-11 defenseman. While playing junior hockey there, Henkemeyer helped his team to win the Borne Cup.

Following juniors, Henkemeyer made the jump to UW-River Falls. He based his decision to continue his hockey career on the Falcon winning tradition.

In his freshman season with the Falcons, Henkemeyer made some impressions. He showed a team first attitude while dishing out four assists.

His second season was no downer. He scored six goals and six assists and earned All-WIAC honorable mention honors.

So far in the 2006-07 campaign, Henkemeyer has unloaded on goalies while leading the Falcon power play. Henkemeyer is tied for third on the team with 17 points made up of eight goals and nine assists. He has been a key component of the lethal Falcon power play with seven goals and nine assists. He has 16 power-play points and that leads the team.

On Dec. 4 he was named the NCHA and WIAC Player of the Week. The Falcons beat Lake Forest, 3-1, on Friday and then beat No. 1 ranked St. Norbert, 3-2, on Saturday. Henkemeyer first assisted a second period TJ Dahl score against Lake Forest. Henkemeyer, 5-11, 183 pounds, recorded two goals against St. Norbert to push the Falcon win streak to nine. His first score came 3:54 into the game and his second came 16:18 into the third and that proved to be the game winner.

He has had seven career multiple point games with his best effort was a one goal, three assist night against St. Mary's on Dec. 12 of this season.

Henkemeyer has scored in six straight games and has four goals and six assists during that stretch. He has scored six goals and 10 points in games at Hunt Arena.

And the best part is there are no signs of slowing down.

"My favorite moment this year so far was beating St. Norbert. That game was a huge confidence booster for us."

Henkemeyer spends most his time at home and on the ice, campus scenery is only visible while he attends his daily classes.

In his spare time Henkemeyer enjoys spending time with friends and family; relaxing is definitely a hobby.

Henkemeyer also enjoys watching the NHL while cheering on his favorite team, the Minnesota Wild.

Bobby Oar is his favorite all-time NHL hockey player.

"My goal for myself is to be recognized as one of the best in Division III hockey. Team wise I obviously want to win a national championship."

Henkemeyer has learned a lot from Falcon Head Coach Steve Freeman. "He has a lot of heart and desire for the game," said Henkemeyer.

"Jim has been an offensive force for us this season," said Freeman. "He has been extremely effective running our power play and playing from the blue line."

Henkemeyer is majoring in marketing communications and not surprisingly wants to do something he enjoys while making money.

"I think I will miss the overall college experience, lifestyle, and time spent with teammates," said Henkemeyer of what he will miss following graduation.