Lätkäpelaaja
Lätkäpelaaja, literally “ice hockey player” in Finnish, denotes a person who plays ice hockey, from hobbyists to professionals. The term combines lätkä (puck) and pelaaja (player) and is used widely in Finnish sports discourse to refer to anyone who participates in the sport, regardless of level or league.
On the ice, lätkäpelaajat may specialize as forwards, defensemen, or goaltenders. Key responsibilities include skating with
In Finland, players typically develop within club systems and junior programs before advancing to higher levels
Equipment includes helmet, shoulder and elbow pads, gloves, shin guards, skates, and a stick, plus protective
As part of Finland’s strong ice hockey culture, lätkäpelaajat contribute to community identity, youth development, and