Superfan Don Hynek Takes Long Journey To Target Center



Superfan Don Hynek Takes Long Road To Target Center




Alex Conover
Web Editorial Associate

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Some Lynx fans might think that driving to Target Center from Duluth or Rochester is a long commute.

Don Hynek's drive to see his favorite WNBA team makes those distances seem like a walk down the block.

Hynek has found a way to come to every Lynx home game except for two, driving all the way from his hometown of Richmond, Va. That's 18 hours, or exactly 1,208 miles. True to form, he was at Target Center on Friday for Game 1 of Minnesotas Western Conference Semifinals series against Seattle.

Born and raised in Fergus Falls, Hynek had plans to attend the University of Minnesota in 1963 until he took a detour and joined the military. A 30-year veteran, he is now retired and has worked part-time at Home Depot for the last 18 years to stay busy along with his cross-country travels.

"I've only missed a couple home games, that's all," Hynek said.

With his father being elderly, Hynek's trips to Minnesota serve as a bonding experience as well as a chance to cheer on the Lynx.

"He's 91 years old," said Hynek. "He came to two games in August. When there are multiple games in a row, I stay with him in Fergus Falls."

Hynek's appreciation for the Lynx started with Lindsay Whalen.

"I followed Whalen ever since she was in college," Hynek said. "I like her style of play, I like the way she handles the team. I was a season ticket holder with the Connecticut Sun, and then when she got traded to Minnesota, I came up for a couple games, sitting in different places. This year I said, 'I want to sit where I want to sit,' so now I'm right behind the bench."

Now that he's positioned in a great seat, Hynek is ready to see another playoff run.

"I'm just hoping they repeat," Hynek said. "I think they're more prepared, because last year it was new to them. I think they are going to do it."


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