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72 Team Handball Olympians (From left to right: Vinny Dicalogero, Rick Abrahamson, Dennis Berkholtz, Jim Rogers and Joel Voelkert
While I’m on the topic of “Glory Days” there’s not better way to continue the discussion then a re-listen of my interview with members of the 1972 Men’s Olympic Handball squad. Back in 2012 the team had gathered in Las Vegas for their 40 year reunion. I sat down with Vinny Dicalogero, Rick Abrahamson, Dennis Berkholtz, Jim Rogers and Joel Voelkert and we discussed how the team was formed, how they prepared for the games, their qualification tournament in front of a packed house in Elkhart, Indiana, their experiences in Munich and their thoughts about what had happened with Team Handball in the U.S. the past 40 years.
As many of you know, since this interview Dennis Berkholtz has re-engaged with the sport as the new chair of USA Beach Handball.
1972 Results
Group Play (0-3)
USA vs. Hungary 15:28 (8:16)
USA vs. Yugoslavia 15:25 (9:11)
USA vs. Japan 16:20 (9:9)
Placement 13-16th place
Semi: USA vs. Spain 22:20 (8:11)
Final: USA vs. Denmark 18:19 (6:12)
Overall Placement: 14th out of 16 teams