Espoo Blues
Encyclopedia
The Blues are an ice hockey
team in the SM-liiga
. They play in Espoo
, Finland
at the Barona Areena
.
by beating Joensuun Kiekkopojat
with wins 3-2 in best-of-five-series.
Kiekko-Espoo ended its first two seasons in SM-liiga in 11th place within 12 teams. In 1994-95 season team made playoffs for the first time, losing to Lukko
in quarter-finals. In 1997-98 season Kiekko-Espoo caused huge upset by beating regular season winner TPS
in quarter-finals. Kiekko-Espoo ended the season in fourth place. In the next summer, team name was changed. The name came from the dominant colour of their home jersey.
During the 1998-99 season, team moved to its current home, LänsiAuto Areena (renamed in 2009 due to sponsorship change). The first seasons in their new home were difficult despite team signing many big names. Blues missed the playoffs in 2001 and 2005. In 2002-03 season Blues had its best regular season until that day with fourth place, only to lose against eventual champions Tappara
in overtime of the seventh quarter-final.
The team took step forward in 2006-07 when they reached the semi-finals for the first time in nine years, although they lost against Kärpät straight in three games and bronze medal game against HPK
. During 2007-08 Blues set a new team record by winning 12 games in a row. They finally ended the regular season in 2nd place and beat HIFK
in quarter-finals and Jokerit
in semi-finals, proceeding to the finals and thus ensuring the first medal in franchise history. The team eventually ended up second after losing the finals to Kärpät.
In the next season, the team was again 2nd in regular season but lost against Kärpät in semi-finals, and also lost bronze medal game against KalPa
. The season included also participation to Champions Hockey League
where Blues lost in semi-finals against eventual champions ZSC Lions
. 2009-10 season was difficult and Blues failed to reach quarter-finals. In 2010-11 team ended regular season in 9th and then beat 8th placed Kärpät in the wild card round of playoffs. Then team made history be becoming first team in SM-liiga to advance from wild card round to semi-finals, beating Ässät
in six games. In the semi-finals Blues continued upsets and beat regular season winners JYP in five games. In the finals, HIFK sweeped the series in four games, so Blues was awarded silver medals for the second time in team history.
Other awards for the club:
of the team.
es since the teams inception.
Ice hockey
Ice hockey, often referred to as hockey, is a team sport played on ice, in which skaters use wooden or composite sticks to shoot a hard rubber puck into their opponent's net. The game is played between two teams of six players each. Five members of each team skate up and down the ice trying to take...
team in the SM-liiga
SM-liiga
The SM-liiga is the top professional ice hockey league in Finland. As of March 2008, it is ranked by the IIHF as the second strongest league in Europe. It was created in 1975 to replace the SM-sarja, which was fundamentally an amateur league. The SM-liiga is not directly overseen by the Finnish Ice...
. They play in Espoo
Espoo
Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. The population of the city of Espoo is . It is part of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area along with the cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Kauniainen. Espoo shares its eastern border with Helsinki and Vantaa, while enclosing Kauniainen....
, Finland
Finland
Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside...
at the Barona Areena
Barona Areena
Barona Areena is an arena in Espoo, Finland, located by the ice rink and the fair center, in Tapiola. It was opened in 1999 and holds 7,036 people...
.
Team history
The club was established in February 1984 as Kiekko-Espoo and played their first season in 1984-1985 in the Finnish Second Division. In 1988 they achieved promotion to the Finnish First Division and in 1992 celebrated their promotion to the SM-liigaSM-liiga
The SM-liiga is the top professional ice hockey league in Finland. As of March 2008, it is ranked by the IIHF as the second strongest league in Europe. It was created in 1975 to replace the SM-sarja, which was fundamentally an amateur league. The SM-liiga is not directly overseen by the Finnish Ice...
by beating Joensuun Kiekkopojat
Jokipojat
Jokipojat is a Finnish semi-professional ice hockey team that plays in the Mestis. Full name of the club is Joensuun Kiekko ry. The club has spent three seasons in top flight of Finnish hockey, season 1971-72 in SM-sarja and seasons 1989-90 and 1991-92 in SM-liiga...
with wins 3-2 in best-of-five-series.
Kiekko-Espoo ended its first two seasons in SM-liiga in 11th place within 12 teams. In 1994-95 season team made playoffs for the first time, losing to Lukko
Lukko
Lukko is an ice hockey team in the SM-liiga, formed 1936. The full name of the club is Rauman Lukko. They play in Rauma, Finland at the Äijänsuo Arena. They have won the national championship once, in 1963...
in quarter-finals. In 1997-98 season Kiekko-Espoo caused huge upset by beating regular season winner TPS
Turun Palloseura
Turun Palloseura, TPS for short and nicknamed Tepsi, is a Finnish football club based in Turku. The club was founded in 1922. TPS currently play in the Veikkausliiga, the highest level of Finnish football. They play their home matches at the 9,372 seater Veritas Stadion, Turku.-History:FC TPS Turku...
in quarter-finals. Kiekko-Espoo ended the season in fourth place. In the next summer, team name was changed. The name came from the dominant colour of their home jersey.
During the 1998-99 season, team moved to its current home, LänsiAuto Areena (renamed in 2009 due to sponsorship change). The first seasons in their new home were difficult despite team signing many big names. Blues missed the playoffs in 2001 and 2005. In 2002-03 season Blues had its best regular season until that day with fourth place, only to lose against eventual champions Tappara
Tappara
Tappara is an ice hockey team in the SM-liiga. They play in Tampere, Finland at Tampereen jäähalli. The team have won 15 league championships ....
in overtime of the seventh quarter-final.
The team took step forward in 2006-07 when they reached the semi-finals for the first time in nine years, although they lost against Kärpät straight in three games and bronze medal game against HPK
HPK
HPK is an ice hockey team in the SM-liiga. They play in Hämeenlinna, Finland at the Hämeenlinnan jäähalli. HPK was established in 1929. The full name of the club is HPK-Edustusjääkiekko Ry and the team is sometimes promoted as the "Hockey Playing Knights", with the logo representing a knight...
. During 2007-08 Blues set a new team record by winning 12 games in a row. They finally ended the regular season in 2nd place and beat HIFK
HIFK (ice hockey)
HIFK is an ice hockey team based in Helsinki, Finland. The team plays at Helsinki Ice Hall. It was founded in 1897...
in quarter-finals and Jokerit
Jokerit
Jokerit is an ice-hockey team from Helsinki, Finland, playing in the Finnish Elite League, SM-liiga. The team has won 6 league championships...
in semi-finals, proceeding to the finals and thus ensuring the first medal in franchise history. The team eventually ended up second after losing the finals to Kärpät.
In the next season, the team was again 2nd in regular season but lost against Kärpät in semi-finals, and also lost bronze medal game against KalPa
KalPa
The Kalevan Pallo is an ice hockey team in the SM-liiga. They play in Kuopio, Finland at the Niiralan monttu.-Team history:Established in 1929, the full name of the company that runs the representative team is KalPa Hockey Oy. The majority of the company is owned by NHL players Sami Kapanen and...
. The season included also participation to Champions Hockey League
Champions Hockey League
The Champions Hockey League was a short-lived ice hockey league which was launched in 2008 by the International Ice Hockey Federation and only played in the 2008–09 season. Its creation coincided with the IIHF's 100th anniversary and replaced the IIHF European Champions Cup, the former competition...
where Blues lost in semi-finals against eventual champions ZSC Lions
ZSC Lions
The Zürcher Schlittschuh Club Lions are a professional ice hockey team located in Zürich, Switzerland, playing in the National League A. The home arena, the 10,700 seat Hallenstadion, is in the Zürich district of Oerlikon...
. 2009-10 season was difficult and Blues failed to reach quarter-finals. In 2010-11 team ended regular season in 9th and then beat 8th placed Kärpät in the wild card round of playoffs. Then team made history be becoming first team in SM-liiga to advance from wild card round to semi-finals, beating Ässät
Ässät
Ässät is an ice hockey team in the Finnish elite league, SM-liiga. They play in Pori, Finland at the Porin jäähalli.-Team history:...
in six games. In the semi-finals Blues continued upsets and beat regular season winners JYP in five games. In the finals, HIFK sweeped the series in four games, so Blues was awarded silver medals for the second time in team history.
Achievements
- Silver: 2008, 2011
- Junior Finnish champions:
- A-juniors (20-year-olds) 1989, 1990, 2009
- B-juniors (18-year-olds) 1988, 1993, 2011
- C-juniors (16-year-olds) 2011
Other awards for the club:
- The Aaro Kivilinna Memorial TrophyAaro Kivilinna Memorial TrophyThe Aaro Kivilinna Memorial Trophy is an award given every year since 1973 to the best ice hockey club overall in Finland by the Finnish SM-liiga. The recipient is determined by the final standings of each club in the SM-liiga or Mestis as well as their teams in the three topmost junior leagues and...
: 2007, 2009, 2011
Current team
| Goaltenders | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | |Player | Catches | Contract Length | Place of Birth | |
| 1 |  |
Jonathan Iilahti | L | 2012 | Vaasa Vaasa Vaasa is a city on the west coast of Finland. It received its charter in 1606, during the reign of Charles IX of Sweden and is named after the Royal House of Vasa... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 34 |  |
Lars Volden Lars Volden Lars Volden is a Norwegian professional ice hockey goaltender who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.He was drafted 181st overall by Boston in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.-Awards and honours:... |
L | 2013 | Oslo Oslo Oslo is a municipality, as well as the capital and most populous city in Norway. As a municipality , it was established on 1 January 1838. Founded around 1048 by King Harald III of Norway, the city was largely destroyed by fire in 1624. The city was moved under the reign of Denmark–Norway's King... , Norway Norway Norway , officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic unitary constitutional monarchy whose territory comprises the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, Jan Mayen, and the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard and Bouvet Island. Norway has a total area of and a population of about 4.9 million... |
| 31 | |
Petri Koivisto Petri Koivisto Petri Koivisto is a Finnish ice hockey goaltender who currently plays professionally in Finland for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | 2012 (2013) | Kiiminki Kiiminki Kiiminki is a municipality of Finland.It is located about north-east from the Oulu city centre, in the province of Oulu and is part of the Northern Ostrobothnia region. The municipality has a population of and covers an area of of which is water. The population density is .The municipality is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| Defencemen | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | |Player | Shoots | Contract Length | Place of Birth | |
| 2 | |
Oskari Korpikari Oskari Korpikari Oskari Korpikari is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga. He was selected by the Montreal Canadiens in the 7th round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.-External links:... |
L | 2012 | Oulu Oulu Oulu is a city and municipality of inhabitants in the region of Northern Ostrobothnia, in Finland. It is the most populous city in Northern Finland and the sixth most populous city in the country. It is one of the northernmost larger cities in the world.... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 3 | |
Ari Vallin Ari Vallin Ari Vallin is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenseman, currently with Espoo Blues of SM-Liiga. Ari Vallin was the player who shot the sudden death goal in 2003-2004 SM-liiga playoff finals in Finland against TPS in overtime therefore making the Kärpät team the new champions.-External links:... |
L | 2012 | Ylöjärvi Ylöjärvi Ylöjärvi is a town and a municipality in Western Finland located west of Tampere.The town has a population of and covers an area of of which is water. The population density is . The population has increased rapidly in recent years, in 1990 it was slightly over 18,000.Ylöjärvi was founded as... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 4 | |
Aleksi Laakso Aleksi Laakso Aleksi Laakso is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | 2012 | Seinäjoki Seinäjoki Seinäjoki is a city located in Southern Ostrobothnia, Finland. Seinäjoki originated around the Östermyra bruk iron and gunpowder factories founded in 1798. Seinäjoki became a municipality in 1868, market town in 1931 and town in 1960... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 6 | |
Mikael Kurki Mikael Kurki Mikael Kurki is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-References:... |
L | 2012 | Helsinki Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city in Finland. It is in the region of Uusimaa, located in southern Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea. The population of the city of Helsinki is , making it by far the most populous municipality in Finland. Helsinki is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 8 | |
Ville Varakas Ville Varakas Ville Varakas is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-References:... |
L | 2012 | Helsinki Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city in Finland. It is in the region of Uusimaa, located in southern Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea. The population of the city of Helsinki is , making it by far the most populous municipality in Finland. Helsinki is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 47 | |
Ville Lajunen Ville Lajunen Ville Lajunen is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Metallurg Magnitogorsk in the Kontinental Hockey League.While playing for the Espoo Blues, he led the SM-liiga in assists by a defenseman in the 2009–10 season.... |
R | 2012 | Helsinki Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city in Finland. It is in the region of Uusimaa, located in southern Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea. The population of the city of Helsinki is , making it by far the most populous municipality in Finland. Helsinki is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| Forwards | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number | |Player | Shoots | Position | Contract Length | Place of Birth | |
| 12 | |
Jari Sailio Jari Sailio Jari Sailio is a finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | W | 2012 | Hyvinkää Hyvinkää Hyvinkää is a town and municipality of Finland. It is located in Uusimaa region, approximately north of the capital Helsinki. The town was chartered in 1960. Hyvinkää belongs to the Province of Southern Finland. The population of Hyvinkää is .... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 14 | |
Petri Lammassaari Petri Lammassaari Petri Lammassaari is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-References:... |
R | W | 2012 | Eurajoki Eurajoki Eurajoki is a municipality of Finland located in the region of Satakunta in the province of Western Finland. The municipality has a population of and covers an area of of which is water. The population density is .... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 17 | |
Kristian Kuusela Kristian Kuusela Kristian Kuusela is a Finnish professional ice hockey player currently playing in Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga. He is currently an alternate captain on the team.... |
L | W | 2013 | Seinäjoki Seinäjoki Seinäjoki is a city located in Southern Ostrobothnia, Finland. Seinäjoki originated around the Östermyra bruk iron and gunpowder factories founded in 1798. Seinäjoki became a municipality in 1868, market town in 1931 and town in 1960... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 19 | |
Roope Talaja Roope Talaja Roope Talaja is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | W | 2011 (2012) | Kuopio Kuopio Kuopio is a city and a municipality located in the region of Northern Savonia, Finland. A population of makes it the ninth biggest city in the country. The city has a total area of , of which is water and half forest... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 21 | |
Valtteri Virkkunen Valtteri Virkkunen Valtteri Virkkunen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-References:... |
L | W | 2011 (2012) | Espoo Espoo Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. The population of the city of Espoo is . It is part of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area along with the cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Kauniainen. Espoo shares its eastern border with Helsinki and Vantaa, while enclosing Kauniainen.... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 27 | |
Roope Ranta Roope Ranta Roope Ranta is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
R | F | 2012 | Helsinki Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city in Finland. It is in the region of Uusimaa, located in southern Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea. The population of the city of Helsinki is , making it by far the most populous municipality in Finland. Helsinki is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 46 | |
Teemu Ramstedt Teemu Ramstedt Teemu Ramstedt is a Finnish professional ice hockey centre currently playing in Espoo Blues of the Finnish SM-liiga.... |
L | W | 2013 | Helsinki Helsinki Helsinki is the capital and largest city in Finland. It is in the region of Uusimaa, located in southern Finland, on the shore of the Gulf of Finland, an arm of the Baltic Sea. The population of the city of Helsinki is , making it by far the most populous municipality in Finland. Helsinki is... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 52 | |
Camilo Miettinen Camilo Miettinen Camilo Miettinen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | F | 2012 | Medellín Medellín Medellín , officially the Municipio de Medellín or Municipality of Medellín, is the second largest city in Colombia. It is in the Aburrá Valley, one of the more northerly of the Andes in South America. It has a population of 2.3 million... , Colombia Colombia Colombia, officially the Republic of Colombia , is a unitary constitutional republic comprising thirty-two departments. The country is located in northwestern South America, bordered to the east by Venezuela and Brazil; to the south by Ecuador and Peru; to the north by the Caribbean Sea; to the... |
| 57 | |
Tomi Sallinen Tomi Sallinen Tomi Sallinen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-References:... |
L | F | 2012 | Espoo Espoo Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. The population of the city of Espoo is . It is part of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area along with the cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Kauniainen. Espoo shares its eastern border with Helsinki and Vantaa, while enclosing Kauniainen.... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 61 | |
Tommi Huhtala Tommi Huhtala Tommi Huhtala is a Finnish professional ice hockey left winger who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | W | 2013 | Tampere Tampere Tampere is a city in southern Finland. It is the most populous inland city in any of the Nordic countries. The city has a population of , growing to approximately 300,000 people in the conurbation and over 340,000 in the metropolitan area. Tampere is the third most-populous municipality in... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 71 | |
Matti Järvinen Matti Järvinen (ice hockey) Matti Järvinen is a former professional ice hockey goaltender who played for Ässät in the SM-liiga during the 2003–04season.-External links:... |
L | W | 2011 (2012) | London London London is the capital city of :England and the :United Kingdom, the largest metropolitan area in the United Kingdom, and the largest urban zone in the European Union by most measures. Located on the River Thames, London has been a major settlement for two millennia, its history going back to its... , UK United Kingdom The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages... |
| 80 | |
Jere Sallinen Jere Sallinen Jere Sallinen is a Finnish professional ice hockey winger who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga. He was selected by the Minnesota Wild in the 6th round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.... |
L | F | 2012 | Espoo Espoo Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. The population of the city of Espoo is . It is part of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area along with the cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Kauniainen. Espoo shares its eastern border with Helsinki and Vantaa, while enclosing Kauniainen.... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
| 85 | |
Toni Kähkönen Toni Kähkönen Toni Kähkönen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:... |
L | F | 2012 | Espoo Espoo Espoo is the second largest city and municipality in Finland. The population of the city of Espoo is . It is part of the Helsinki Metropolitan Area along with the cities of Helsinki, Vantaa, and Kauniainen. Espoo shares its eastern border with Helsinki and Vantaa, while enclosing Kauniainen.... , Finland Finland Finland , officially the Republic of Finland, is a Nordic country situated in the Fennoscandian region of Northern Europe. It is bordered by Sweden in the west, Norway in the north and Russia in the east, while Estonia lies to its south across the Gulf of Finland.Around 5.4 million people reside... |
Team Captains (SM-liiga)
15 players have been named CaptainCaptain (ice hockey)
In ice hockey, each team can designate an official captain for each game. The player serving as captain during the game wears a "C" on his or her jersey...
of the team.
- Jan Långbacka (1992–94)
- Hannu JärvenpääHannu JärvenpääHannu Järvenpää is a retired professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League and SM-Liiga. He played for Kärpät, Espoo Blues, Jokerit, Winnipeg Jets, and Lukko.- External links :...
(1994) - Peter AholaPeter AholaPeter Kristian Ahola is a former ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Calgary Flames, and the San Jose Sharks.- Playing career :...
(1994–95) - Jarmo Muukkonen (1995–96)
- Teemu Sillanpää (1996–97)
- Juha IkonenJuha IkonenJuha Ikonen is a former Finnish professional ice hockey player, who last played in 2002.Ikonen played in the SM-liiga for Espoo Blues and in the Elitserien for Västra Frölunda HC. He also played for Finland in the 1998 World Ice Hockey Championship.-External links:...
(1997–99) - Peter AholaPeter AholaPeter Kristian Ahola is a former ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Calgary Flames, and the San Jose Sharks.- Playing career :...
(1999–2001) - Valeri Krykov (2001–02)
- Juha Ylönen (2002–03)
- Rami AlankoRami AlankoRami Alanko is a Finnish professional ice hockey player.He is currently playing for the Espoo Blues in the Finnish SM-Liiga. He joined the club in May 2007. He started his career in 1995 and has played with several finish clubs including HPK, Espoo Blues, Jokerit and Haukat. With Jokerit Alanko...
(2003–05) - Timo Hirvonen (2005, stepped down as captain in November 2005)
- Markku Hurme (2005–2006, replaced Hirvonen as captain mid-season)
- Joakim ErikssonJoakim ErikssonJoakim Eriksson is a Swedish professional ice hockey player currently with the Södertälje SK team in the Swedish Elitserien league. A creative centre, Eriksson is also a skillful player in face-off situations, winning well over 50 % of the draws in multiple consecutive seasons.- References :...
(2006) - Markku Hurme, Ville ViitaluomaVille ViitaluomaVille Viitaluoma is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for HPK of the SM-liiga.-External links:...
, Erkki RajamäkiErkki RajamäkiErkki Rajamäki is a Finnish ice hockey left winger currently playing for HIFK Helsinki of the SM-liiga.- Career stats :- External links :...
, Kent MandervilleKent MandervilleKent Stephen Manderville is a retired Canadian ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers and the Pittsburgh Penguins...
(2006–07, rotating captaincy) - Rami AlankoRami AlankoRami Alanko is a Finnish professional ice hockey player.He is currently playing for the Espoo Blues in the Finnish SM-Liiga. He joined the club in May 2007. He started his career in 1995 and has played with several finish clubs including HPK, Espoo Blues, Jokerit and Haukat. With Jokerit Alanko...
(2007–09) - Toni KähkönenToni KähkönenToni Kähkönen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:...
(2009 to date)
Head coaches (SM-liiga)
The Blues have had 18 head coachHead coach
A head coach, senior coach or manager is a professional at training and developing athletes. They typically hold a more public profile and are paid more than other coaches...
es since the teams inception.
- Martti Merra (1992–94, replaced in January)
- Hannu Saintula (1994, mid-season replacement)
- Harri Rindell (1994–96)
- Håkan Nygren (1996–98, replaced in February)
- Hannu Saintula (1998, mid-season replacement)
- Pekka RautakallioPekka RautakallioPekka Rautakallio is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who played three seasons in the National Hockey League for the Atlanta Flames and Calgary Flames.-Early years:...
(1998, replaced in November) - Hannu Saintula (1998–99, mid-season replacement)
- Jukka Holtari (1999–2000, replaced in January)
- Jari Härkälä (2000, mid-season replacement)
- Timo Tuomi (2000–01, replaced in September of second season)
- Hannu KapanenHannu KapanenHannu Kapanen is a retired professional ice hockey player who played in the SM-liiga. He played for Jokerit and HIFK...
(2001–03, mid-season replacement, continued in the next season) - Ted SatorTed SatorTed Sator is an American professional ice hockey coach.-Playing career:Ted Sator played for parts of two seasons for Bowling Green State University. During the 1971–72 campaign for the NCAA team Sator played 27 games, where he tallied 5 goals and assisted on 6 others...
(2003, replaced in October) - Hannu VirtaHannu VirtaHannu Virta is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman. He was named the best defenceman in the Finnish Elite League four times, and was a five-time all-star...
(2003–04, mid-season replacement, replaced in the October of second season) - Pekka RautakallioPekka RautakallioPekka Rautakallio is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who played three seasons in the National Hockey League for the Atlanta Flames and Calgary Flames.-Early years:...
(2004–05) - Kari HeikkiläKari HeikkiläKari Heikkilä is a former Finnish ice hockey player and current coach.He played majority of his career in Ilves, but had also stints in Sweden and in Italy, where he ended his career in 1994....
(2005–07) - Petri MatikainenPetri MatikainenPetri Matikainen is a former Finnish ice hockey player and current coach.Originally playing for SaPKo, he moved to play two seasons of junior hockey in Oshawa Generals. He was part of the team that won J. Ross Robertson Cup in 1987. In the same year, he also won IIHF World U20 Championship with...
(2007-11) - Lauri Marjamäki (2011-)
Notable players
- Peter AholaPeter AholaPeter Kristian Ahola is a former ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Calgary Flames, and the San Jose Sharks.- Playing career :...
- Tyler ArnasonTyler ArnasonTyler Arnason is an American professional ice hockey center who is currently a Free Agent. He most recently played with the Texas Stars of the American Hockey League. He has previously played in the National Hockey League for the Chicago Blackhawks, Ottawa Senators and the Colorado...
- Frank BanhamFrank BanhamFrank Banham is a Canadian professional ice hockey winger who currently plays for KHL Medveščak Zagreb.-Playing career:Initially drafted 147th overall by the Washington Capitals in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft, Banham played 27 regular season games in the NHL for the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim scoring 9...
- Timo BlomqvistTimo BlomqvistTimo Pauli Blomqvist is a former Finnish ice hockey player.Drafted in 1980 by the Washington Capitals, Blomqvist also played briefly for the New Jersey Devils before he returned to play hockey in Europe for good....
- Scott BrowerScott BrowerScott Brower was a professional ice hockey goaltender.-Early career:Brower was drafted by the New York Rangers in the 12th in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft...
- Bernd BrücklerBernd BrücklerBernd Brückler is an Austrian professional ice hockey goaltender currently playing for HC Sibir Novosibirsk of the Kontinental Hockey League.- Draft :...
- Jan ČalounJan CalounJan Čaloun is a retired professional hockey player. He is 178 cm tall, 80 kg in weight. He shoots right and plays right wing. He was drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the fourth round, 75th overall in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft...
- Mariusz CzerkawskiMariusz CzerkawskiMariusz Czerkawski is a retired Polish ice hockey player. He played for the Boston Bruins, Edmonton Oilers, New York Islanders, Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs in the National Hockey League . In addition to playing in the NHL, Czerkawski played for several different European-based teams...
- Johan DavidssonJohan DavidssonJohan Davidsson is a Swedish professional ice hockey player, currently with HV71 in the Swedish elite league Elitserien. He is a long-time Elitserien player and currently captain of HV71, with which he has won the Swedish championship four times.- Playing career :Davidsson wears jersey number 76...
- Tom DraperTom DraperThomas Edward Draper is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey goaltender. He was chosen in the eighth round, 165th overall,and the 8th pick by the Winnipeg Jets in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft. On February 28, 1991 the Jets traded Tom to the St. Louis Blues for future considerations...
- Ben EavesBen EavesBenjamin Coel Eaves is an American ice hockey center, currently playing for the Jokerit of the SM-Liiga. He is the son of retired NHL player Mike Eaves, and brother of Patrick Eaves of the Detroit Red Wings.- Playing career :...
- Nils EkmanNils EkmanNils "Nisse" Ekman is a Swedish former professional ice hockey right winger. During his 15-year career as a player at the professional level he played in the National Hockey League, Swedish Elite League , Kontinental Hockey League , and SM-liiga...
- Joakim ErikssonJoakim ErikssonJoakim Eriksson is a Swedish professional ice hockey player currently with the Södertälje SK team in the Swedish Elitserien league. A creative centre, Eriksson is also a skillful player in face-off situations, winning well over 50 % of the draws in multiple consecutive seasons.- References :...
- Kari HaakanaKari HaakanaKari Haakana is a former ice hockey defenceman who spent the majority of his career in Scandinavia, with the exception of brief stints in Germany and in the Edmonton Oilers player development system in North America...
- Timo Hirvonen
- Juha IkonenJuha IkonenJuha Ikonen is a former Finnish professional ice hockey player, who last played in 2002.Ikonen played in the SM-liiga for Espoo Blues and in the Elitserien for Västra Frölunda HC. He also played for Finland in the 1998 World Ice Hockey Championship.-External links:...
- Otakar JaneckýOtakar JaneckýOtakar Janecký is a retired Czech ice hockey forward.In his homeland Janecký represented HC Pardubice, his birthcity team for his entire Czechoslovak Extraliga and Czech Extraliga career....
- Joonas Jääskeläinen
- Jere KaralahtiJere KaralahtiJere Juhani Karalahti is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman now playing for Dinamo Minsk in the Kontinental Hockey League. He was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings as their sixth-round pick in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft....
- Martin KariyaMartin KariyaMartin Tetsuya Kariya is a professional ice hockey right winger for HC Ambri-Piotta of the Swiss Hockey League.-Amateur:...
- Steve KariyaSteve KariyaSteven Tetsuo Kariya is a Canadian professional ice hockey winger and younger brother of retired National Hockey League player Paul Kariya.-Playing career:...
- Ryan KellerRyan KellerRyan Keller is a Canadian professional ice hockey player. Keller is currently a member of the Edmonton Oilers organization, having signed in July 2011 as a free agent after playing for the Binghamton Senators of the American Hockey League in 2010–11...
- Ladislav KohnLadislav KohnLadislav Kohn is a former National Hockey League right winger.He was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the seventh round, 175th overall, of the 1994 NHL Entry Draft. He played in Finland's SM-liiga with the Espoo Blues from 2003 to 2007 before moving to Russia with HC CSKA Moscow...
- Krystofer KolanosKrystofer KolanosKrystofer Stanley Kolanos is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who plays for the Abbotsford Heat of the American Hockey League .-Playing career:...
- Ľubomír KolníkLubomír KolníkĽubomír Kolník is a Slovak ice hockey player, who currently plays for HK 36 Skalica in the Slovak Extraliga....
- Arto LaatikainenArto LaatikainenArto Laatikainen is a Finnish professional ice hockey defenceman who currently plays for Södertälje SK of the Elitserien. He was selected by the New York Rangers in the 7th round of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft....
- Jani LajunenJani LajunenJani Lajunen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who is currently playing for Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL. He was selected by the Nashville Predators in the 7th round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft....
- Tero LehteräTero LehteräTero Lehterä is a retired professional ice hockey player who played the majority of his career in the SM-liiga. He played for Tappara, Jokerit, HPK, and Espoo Blues. He also had stints in Elitserien, the IHL, Russia, Switzerland and Germany...
- Jere LehtinenJere LehtinenJere Kalervo Lehtinen is a former Finnish professional ice hockey forward. He played as a right wing. He was drafted 88th overall in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft by the Minnesota North Stars. Lehtinen handles defensive aspects of the game as well as offensive, hence he is a two-way forward for which...
- Jan Långbacka
- Mikko LehtonenMikko Lehtonen (ice hockey b. 1987)Mikko Kristian Lehtonen is a Finnish ice hockey winger currently playing for Severstal Cherepovets of the Kontinental Hockey League.-Playing career:...
- Donald MacLean
- Kent MandervilleKent MandervilleKent Stephen Manderville is a retired Canadian ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers and the Pittsburgh Penguins...
- Dale McTavishDale McTavishDale B. McTavish is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played nine games in the National Hockey League for the Calgary Flames in 1996–97, recording one goal and two assists...
- Shawn McEachernShawn McEachernShawn K. McEachern is an American ice hockey coach and former professional ice hockey player. He is the current head boys' varsity ice hockey coach at The Rivers School, an independent 6–12 school in Weston, Massachusetts....
- Branislav MezeiBranislav MezeiBranislav Mezei is a Slovak ice hockey defenceman currently with Lev Poprad of the Kontinental Hockey League.-International career:...
- Cory Murphy
- Jarmo MyllysJarmo MyllysJarmo Myllys is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey goaltender. He was drafted by the Minnesota North Stars as their ninth-round pick, #172 overall, in the 1987 NHL Entry Draft...
- Sami Nuutinen
- Oskar OsalaOskar OsalaOskar Osala is a Finnish professional ice hockey Left Wing currently playing with the HC Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk of the Kontinental Hockey League.-Playing career:He started his career with Vaasa-based Sport...
- Antti PihlströmAntti PihlströmAntti Pihlström is a Finnish professional ice hockey left winger currently playing for JYP of the Finnish SM-liiga.-Playing career:Pihlström played in Finland's SM-liiga for the Espoo Blues, HPK, and SaiPa...
- Esa PirnesEsa PirnesEsa Pirnes is a Finnish professional ice hockey centre.- Draft :He was drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft in the 6th round as the 174th pick overall.-Playing career:...
- Sergei PryakhinSergei PryakhinSergei Vasilievich Pryakhin is a retired Russian ice hockey forward.Sergei was the first Soviet member of their national hockey team that the Soviet government allowed to play in the National Hockey League. Other players had either defected or had not been member of the national team before him...
- Erkki RajamäkiErkki RajamäkiErkki Rajamäki is a Finnish ice hockey left winger currently playing for HIFK Helsinki of the SM-liiga.- Career stats :- External links :...
- Christian RuuttuChristian RuuttuChristian Ruuttu is a former professional ice hockey player.Ruuttu is the father of Alexander Ruuttu, who was drafted by the Phoenix Coyotes.-Playing career:...
- Ilkka SinisaloIlkka SinisaloIlkka Antero Jouko Sinisalo is a Finnish former professional ice hockey forward who played eleven seasons in the National Hockey League for the Philadelphia Flyers, Minnesota North Stars and Los Angeles Kings...
- Petri SkrikoPetri SkrikoPetri Kalevi Skriko is a retired Finnish professional ice hockey player, best remembered for his seasons starring in the NHL for the Vancouver Canucks in the 1980s...
- Petr TonPetr TonPetr Ton is Czech ice hockey forward.In 2006-2007 season Ton played 67 games and scored 36 goals in Czech Extraliga for HC Sparta Praha.Ton scored 163 goals in Czech Extraliga. He won Czech Extraliga in 2006 and 2007.-External links:...
- Lauri TukonenLauri TukonenLauri Tukonen is a Finnish professional ice hockey player. Tukonen plays for the Lukko Rauma of the Finnish SM-liiga. Tukonen has played in North America for the Los Angeles Kings organization...
- Antti TörmänenAntti TörmänenAntti Törmänen is a retired professional ice hockey player and current head coach of SC Bern in Switzerland's National League A...
- Jiří VykoukalJiří VykoukalJiří Vykoukal is a Czech professional ice hockey defenceman. He was selected by the Washington Capitals in the 10th round of the 1989 NHL Entry Draft....
- Landon WilsonLandon WilsonLandon Wilson is a former American professional ice hockey right winger who last played for the Texas Stars of the AHL, where he served as team captain. He is the son of former NHL forward Rick Wilson.-Playing career:...
- Juha Ylönen
- Stefan ÖhmanStefan ÖhmanStefan Öhman is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who currently plays for Espoo Blues of the SM-liiga.-External links:...
Former Blues players currently in NHL
- Niklas HagmanNiklas HagmanNiklas Hagman is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League . He was a third round pick of the Florida Panthers, 70th overall, at the 1999 NHL Entry Draft and made his NHL debut with Florida in 2001...
- Mikko KoskinenMikko KoskinenMikko Koskinen is a Finnish ice hockey goaltender who is currently playing for KalPa in the SM-Liiga.-Playing career:Koskinen was drafted 31st overall by the New York Islanders in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft after playing for the Espoo Blues in the Finnish SM-Liiga. He was the first goalie taken in...
- Jani LajunenJani LajunenJani Lajunen is a Finnish professional ice hockey forward who is currently playing for Milwaukee Admirals in the AHL. He was selected by the Nashville Predators in the 7th round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft....
- Ryan MaloneRyan MaloneRyan Malone is an American professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning in the National Hockey League .-Playing career:...
- Mike RibeiroMike RibeiroMichael Ribeiro is a Canadian professional ice hockey player currently playing for the Dallas Stars of the National Hockey League . Ribeiro is of Portuguese ancestry.-Playing career:...
- Iiro TarkkiIiro TarkkiIiro Tarkki is a Finnish professional ice hockey goaltender who currently plays for Syracuse Crunch of the AHL. He has previously played for the Espoo Blues....