Kiinen Saari Has committed to move his Talents from the NOJHL to Junior Hockey in Finland. SaPko u20 plays in one of the most respected junior leagues in Finland. Known for producing professional athletes all over Europe, with many of their alumni playing in nearly every elite professional league across Europe.
Kiinen who grew up in Sault Ste. Marie Ontario, has family from Finland and also Finnish Citizenship. Kiinen had always dreamed of making the move to play in Finland and this next season he will finally have that opportunity.
“When looking for opportunities for Kiinen, we wanted to explore every option that would give him a more direct path toward his long term goals.” Said Devin Panzeca Vice President of Hockey Talent Management “Playing in Europe provides multiple pathways, while not sacrificing scouting from North American programs. All the junior frafts, and the NHL draft prove that Europe is a great alternative path forward.”
Playing for SaPko u20 is an honor, one of the top teams in the league who has a history of moving their players directly to the professional level.
“We hate to see Kiinen leave, but we would never stand in the way of a player advancing toward his long term goals and we wish him great succes moving forward.” Said Jason Repcewicz Head Coach of the Espanola Paperkings
With the move to this elite level comes elite training opportunities as he is expected to arrive in Finland the last week of July to begin preparations with the team. The team trains together 10 months out of the year so they can maximize the potential of their young Athletes. The junior players also have opportunities to train directly with the parent professional club that shares the same name and Arena, providing their players with a direct path to the next level.
For more information on playing junior or professional hockey in Europe contact Devin Panzeca [email protected]
