Fortunately, demandingness no longer has to mean shouting, ranting and negativity, writes journalist Jussi Paasi.
*SM league semi-finals continue on Friday with the match Tappara–HIFK and on Saturday with the match Ilves–Pelicans. Yle Puheen Ice Hockey tour on both days starting at 4:45 p.m.*
A smiling, good-natured and laughing hockey coach.
In years gone by, that would have been considered strange to say the least. After all, Koutsin has to be stern and harsh *slut*.
Unfortunately, many people still seem to think that frowning, stiffness and seriousness are what a hockey coach should represent. We’re serious here and not kidding, damn it!
The head coach of the Pelicans smiles, laughs, exudes a good mood and positivity. Niemelä clearly enjoys every moment of his work.
He gives a face to modern hockey management.
And the beaming smile does not mean that Niemelä takes coaching lightly. Vice versa. He is an *extremely* demanding pilot. Fortunately, demandingness no longer has to mean shouting, ranting and negativity.
Niemelä has created an admirably positive atmosphere for Pelicans. He trusts his players one hundred percent. The players are given a lot of freedom – and thus are required to take responsibility for themselves and their teammates.
The trail has been deafening this season. The big surprise of the season is, as I write this comment, two wins away from the SM league finals.
The Pelicans are everything that the head coach’s unquenchable smile conveys. A brave, open-minded group bursting with positive team spirit, where everyone is allowed to be themselves.
It was with those aids that the people of Lahti have beaten the pre-favorite Ilves in the semi-final series. The way the Pelicans play as underdogs deserves a special hat-trick.
One scene in the third semi-final fight told everything about the liberated feeling created by Niemelä.
Were not. That doesn’t happen.
Except in the Pelicans.
Smile. Laughter. Fun. Humor. Relaxation. Positivity.
Tell me one profession where they wouldn’t be useful.
So.
Inspiring and exemplary, Tommi Niemelä!
*You can discuss the topic until Saturday, April 8. until 11 p.m.* *You need a Yle ID** to comment.*
*SM league semi-finals continue on Friday with the match Tappara–HIFK and on Saturday with the match Ilves–Pelicans. Yle Puheen Ice Hockey tour on both days starting at 4:45 p.m.*