Opening Leg in Kloten
Finland’s women’s hockey program unveiled its roster for the inaugural leg of the Women’s Euro Hockey Tour, set to begin in Kloten on August 19. The announcement comes as the team looks to build momentum ahead of the World Championships later in November.
Between the pipes, Sanni Ahola of the Ottawa Charge and Emilia Kyrkkö from St. Cloud State will share starting duties, giving the Finnish coaches a balanced goaltending duo.
On the blue line, veteran Jenni Hiirikoski will anchor the defense, while 2023 PWHL fifth‑overall pick Nelli Laitinen earns a spot alongside fellow defensemen Sini Karjalainen, Nella Berg, Tuuli Tallinen, Hannele Tarkiainen and Siiri Yrjölä.
The forward contingent includes Emma Ekoluoma, Emmi Juusela, Sofia Nuutinen, Pauliina Salonen, Julia Schalin and Sofianna Sundelin, each bringing experience from European clubs and North American collegiate programs.
Several high‑profile players will be absent from the Swiss leg due to club commitments; Michelle Karvinen, Elisa Holopainen and Emma Nuutinen are tied up with Montreal Victoire, New York Sirens and Seattle Torrent respectively.
Nevertheless, the roster retains a strong core of PWHL talent such as Petra Nieminen, Susanna Tapani and Viivi Vainikka, while veterans Noora Tulus, Jenniina Nylund, Julia Liikala and Sanni Vanhanen return from the 2026 Olympic experience.
The opening tournament will also feature Sweden and Czechia, marking the first of several stops across Europe before the season‑ending World Championships in November.