I started my career in Sweden at the age of 11. A year later, when I was 12, I moved to Finland with my mother. Back then, everything was new, but I already knew what I wanted—I had a dream and I was ready to work for it.

I played in the junior teams of Lukko until the 9th grade. During those years, I often felt that I didn’t get the recognition I believed I had earned, and I wasn’t able to break into the top team. That was a tough moment for me, but it also pushed me to make an important decision: it was time to look for a new path.
Earlier, I had trained on the ice with Pasi Kataja, and I knew him fairly well. I respected his philosophy—he truly cared about developing players, not just systems or results. For him, the most important thing was that players improve and grow. At 15, I made a big decision: I moved alone to Tampere to train under him. I will always be grateful for that opportunity, and especially thankful to my mother for supporting me and allowing me to chase my dreams.
After that season, I returned to my hometown and played for a local team. But deep down, I knew I wanted something more. I was hungry for a new challenge, something different. I spoke with Pasi again, and at that time he had just moved to Austria to join Icehawks. It didn’t take long for me to decide—I would follow my dreams and go there too.
My first season wasn’t easy. It was the club’s very first academy year, so not everything worked perfectly at the beginning. But thanks to Pasi’s ambition and the dedication of the staff, things changed quickly. In just a few months, the organization transformed completely. The conditions improved, and everything started to fall into place.
The following season, the team performed at a high level—it truly felt like playing in a professional environment. By my third season, I was honored to be named team captain. That role taught me a lot. Through challenges and responsibility, I learned what leadership really means: it’s about bringing everyone together and making sure no one is left behind.
I spent four seasons wearing the Icehawks jersey, playing over 100 games. I will always be grateful for that time. I made lifelong friends from all around the world, and I wouldn’t change a single moment.
I’m forever proud and thankful that I had the chance to wear that jersey. And a special thank you to everyone who was part of the journey—teammates, staff, supporters, and especially Pasi.
Thank you.