Sami Kapanen, 35, returns to Finnish “Lions” as captain in Karelia Cup

Coach Jukka Jalonen picks strong side for Helsinki tournament

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Forward Sami Kapanen of KalPa from Kuopio will captain the Finnish national ice hockey team nicknamed Leijonat (“the Lions”) in next week’s Karelia Cup tournament in Helsinki.
      Head coach Jukka Jalonen chose an experienced team without rookies to enter the unofficial European series tournament.
      Defender Petteri Nummelin is the deputy captain.
      “Sami brings leadership into the rink and the locker room”, Jalonen argues.
     
Kapanen, 35, last represented Finland at the Salt Lake City Olympics in 2002.
      “I believe if Sami is happy with his playing and feels he enjoys being in the team he will be available in the future as well, even in the spring’s World Championships”, Jalonen adds.
      The head coach has planned an important role at the upcoming tournament for the NHL veteran Kapanen.
      “He will be playing in a line that will get a lot of power play responsibility. He is one of the trailblazers on the ice. A very hardworking defensive forward”, praises Jalonen.
     
The head coach is more than happy that the experienced Kapanen does not mind putting on the national team’s blue and white jerseys once again.
      “A man who has already made his mark in the NHL and who would not have to play any more, still wants to represent his country. Kapanen is a sportsman through and through.”
     
     
Finland meet the Czech Republic on Thursday 6th November, Russia on 8th November, and Sweden on 9th November. All matches will be played in the Hartwall Arena. The tournament is one part of the unofficial Euro Hockey Tour, and is used by the teams taking part as a means of preparing sides for the World Championships and Olympics.


Links:
  Sami Kapanen (Wikipedia)
  Karjala [Karelia] Tournament (Wikipedia)
  Finnish Ice Hockey Association, Karjala Tournament (scroll down for English)

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