Finland's Top Hockey Coach Credits Unconventional Mentor for Success. In a heartwarming display of gratitude, Finnish hockey coach Mikko Suvanto has revealed the unlikely source of his coaching expertise. Rather than drawing from traditional hockey mentors, Suvanto credits his father, Harri Suvanto, with teaching him the joys of the sport after he was forced to take an early "retirement" from hockey at just five years old. Despite the setback, Harri's influence played a pivotal role in shaping Mikko's passion for hockey, ultimately leading him to become one of Finland's top coaches. As Suvanto looks to the future, it's clear that his family's unconventional approach to hockey has had a lasting impact on his career.

Barkov isn't the only one Suvanto has learned from over the years. He credits his father, Harri Suvanto, for helping him learn to enjoy hockey after he after an early "retirement" -- at age 5.