The purpose of the visits is to see the arena where players will play and train and the hotel where the teams stay.

Representatives of the Swiss National Hockey Team were the first delegation to visit Helsinki. During their 3-day visit, Sean Simpson, head coach of the Swiss team, and Marcel Enkerli, the team manager, were accompanied by the LOC sports department, led by competition manager Jarmo Jalarvo.

The visit started off in team hotel, where the delegation got to know how the rooms are like and how they are equipped. The plans for team catering were also discussed in detail.

At the arena, the delegation took their time to measure the dressing rooms and to get to know the facilities available for players as well as team services.

“Well-organized operations are crucial for us and it is of course nice to know where the games will be played.” Enkerli explained. “I’m sure that players will also appreciate the fact that the practice rink is located close to the main arena.”

When asked about goals, Simpson has a clear target in his mind.

“Our first aim is to reach the semi-finals,” he said. “After that, we’ll continue to do our best.”

The Swiss are looking forward to their visit in Finland next May when the World Championship begins. It will be the first time in modern ice hockey the event is co-hosted by two countries.

“The initial idea of Finland and Sweden co-hosting the event is interesting”, said Enkerli.

“I think this is very clever, as shared responsibilities will help the workload for those involved in preparations.”


Marcel Enkerli, the team manager, and Sean Simpson, head coach of the Swiss team, with Finnish General Secretary Mika Sulin.