Born September 1, 1927 in Oslo Norway. As a boy, Bjorn was involved in many sports such as skiing and bandy during the winter and soccer and swimming during the summer. Bjorn immigrated to the United States in 1952 and resided in Duluth MN. In 1954 Bjorn and his family moved to Salt Lake City where he joined the Vikings Soccer Club, where he played until 1968. Bjorn became a referee in 1966 which he continued through 1978. He served as Vice President for the Utah Soccer Association in 1974-1976 and was elected President of the Utah Soccer Association in 1976. A position he held until 1980. Some significant accomplishments during his tenure are the development of a more organized soccer organization, the development of women’s soccer and the start of the Utah Open Cup Competition. Every year the Utah Soccer Association continues to honor Bjorn with the playing of the Opsahl Challenge Cup.
Bjorn Opsahl 1997 Hall Of FameBorn September 1, 1927 in Oslo Norway. As a boy, Bjorn was involved in many sports such as skiing and bandy during the winter and soccer and swimming during the summer. Bjorn immigrated to the United States in 1952 and resided in Duluth MN. In 1954 Bjorn and his family moved to Salt Lake City where he joined the Vikings Soccer Club, where he played until 1968. Bjorn became a referee in 1966 which he continued through 1978. He served as Vice President for the Utah Soccer Association in 1974-1976 and was elected President of the Utah Soccer Association in 1976. A position he held until 1980. Some significant accomplishments during his tenure are the development of a more organized soccer organization, the development of women’s soccer and the start of the Utah Open Cup Competition. Every year the Utah Soccer Association continues to honor Bjorn with the playing of the Opsahl Challenge Cup.
1997 Hall Of FameBjorn Opsahl