OSLOPRETENDERS

Oslo,  January 17th 2017
by Mullah

 

It is with deep sadness and sorrow that we inform you of the passing away of our dear friend and Hall of Famer Kjetil “Shaq” Johansen.

 

Shaq had been battling cancer for the past couple of years, long outlasting the doctors’ predictions as he stubbornly fought to survive. Although the news was not unexpected, it is indeed a very sad day.

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Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends.

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Shaq’s time with the Pretenders

Kjetil "Shaq" Johansen was inducted as our 5th member of the Hall of Fame in 2008 together with Mark Wangsness. He played 115 games over 8 seasons from 1991-1998 and was one of the founding members of the club. Shaq's best weapon was his lightning speed. With his 184 stolen bases he is still 4th all time. And, together with Glenn Wells, he holds the single-season stolen base record with 52.

 

Shaq is involved in several legendary stories for the club - both on and off the field. One of them is from the early 1990's as the Pretenders played a game at Frogner Stadium against Lierbyen - who at the time had both Ron Whitehead and Jimmy D on their team. 

 

As a true Pretender and teammate Shaq didn't move an inch when the opposing pitcher - Ron - fired some serious heaters right at him as he took not only one but three hits in that game for the team. And with his speed he stole both 2nd and 3rd each time before anyone could figure out what just happened. 

 

One of the hit by pitches hit Shaq's hand, and according to the legend his hand got so big and swollen up that he didn't need a glove for the rest of the game.

 

 

You were a pain in the butt for the opponents, but a great teammate for the Pretender squad.

Rest in Peace, Kjetil!