A fantastic week in Finland saw a group of Scottish Ice Hockey players across a range of age groups travel to the world-class Vierumäki – Finland Sports Institute for an intensive week-long development camp.

The players were put through their paces by Finnish coach Janne Tuunanen, supported throughout the week by Scottish coaches Bob Chalmers, Colin McMillan, Mark Hay, Jordan Leyden, Kevin Russell and Neil Pritchard.

It wasn’t only about player development. The Scottish coaching team were given the opportunity to further develop their own knowledge, share ideas and learn from the Finnish approach to player development — bringing valuable experience back into Scottish hockey.

The facilities at Vierumäki were outstanding, and the programme challenged the players both on and off the ice. Throughout the week we saw huge development in individual skills, confidence, compete levels and group bonding, with the whole group growing closer as the camp progressed.

Our netminders also had an incredible opportunity to work with and receive expert advice from former NHL goaltender Karri Rämö — an experience they won’t forget.

A brilliant week of hockey, learning, development and new friendships, with memories made that will last a lifetime.

A massive well done to every player and coach who represented Scottish Ice Hockey in Finland.

An experience to remember — and hopefully the start of many more opportunities like this for Scottish players and coaches.