Finnish player studies at Harvard – Download the tough goal

Brought up by the Espoo ice hockey school Heikki Ruohonen started his studies and playing hockey at the famous Harvard University in the fall.

The forward has had a great time at the university and playing varsity hockey.

– The ice hockey there is really high-quality. Our conditions are top notch, gyms, training places and others are exactly as you would expect. I have been very satisfied with the choice, Ruohonen tells Iltalehte at the Young Lions’ training camp in Duluth, Minnesota.

According to him, the game is faster and more aggressive compared to the SM league.

– Our conference is quite a mess, there is a lot of struggle. We have a little younger gang and we are just being taught to fight. You have to be ready for that.

– We don’t sit on the board much during training, we usually go pretty hard for an hour and a half. Usually, after training, it’s pretty good, the 187-centimeter center continues.

Able to practice

In the NCAA college series, Harvard only plays on Fridays and Saturdays.

– You can train hard during the week. It is still important at this age to develop, gain muscle and explosiveness. I feel that the activity definitely develops.

– There, all the players are in the same situation, everyone wants to move forward in their career. There is always a company to do extra if you want it. The atmosphere at school is very good, Ruohonen thinks.

Study

Ruohonen is not just developing as a puck player in the world-famous study hall. The academic side is very important.

– I haven’t chosen my major yet. I plan to study economics or political science. You can study almost anything there, you can choose the courses you want. They are easier and harder.

Studying and puck go well hand in hand.

– There are no problems with the hose. Classes usually start at 10:30. Before that, you have time to practice or shoot with your friends. Then to school and training, team training is after the school day. Around seven, the day is over.

When do you choose your major?

– It has to be done at the beginning of next year, it seems pretty clear.

Gold is the goal

Ruohonen took part in last year’s World Youth Championship in Ottawa. Finland fought their way to the finals, but lost to the United States in overtime.

Finland’s tournament starts on Boxing Day at 22:30 against Denmark.

– I approach the opening game with great anticipation. Last year in the first game we came up against Canada, it was quite an exciting game. It’s nice to be able to build my own thing now. We have a good camp and games of chance below.

Harvard’s Heikki believes in Finland’s championship chances.

– We have a really good team here, there is width here. The defense and defensive play are good and I think the goalkeepers are the best in the tournament. It still helps.

– The World Cup final is not just a dream, it’s a goal. We have set clear goals for the team and we are moving towards them.

Ruohonen knows his own role in the team.

– I’m going to bring a comprehensive game here. I want the coaches to know that I can be put on the ice in any situation, at least not in their own way.

– I can play against anyone. You will meet tough players here and you have to be able to play against them. I want to bring hard work and physicality to the Finnish team.