Tapparaa

Tappara, meaning "axe" in Finnish, is a Finnish professional ice hockey club based in Tampere. The team competes in Liiga, the top tier of Finnish ice hockey, and is one of the country’s most prominent sports clubs in the sport.

The club’s ice hockey section was established in the early days of organized hockey in Tampere and has since grown into a storied franchise with a history of success. Tappara maintains a strong local rivalry with Ilves, and their encounters in Tampere are among the most anticipated in Finnish hockey, often referred to as the Tampere derby.

Tappara's colors are blue and black, and the club's emblem features an axe, reflecting the team's name. The organization emphasizes player development, operating a robust youth program that feeds talent to the men’s Liiga squad and contributing players to national teams at various levels.

Home games are hosted in Tampere, with the team playing in venues in the city that can accommodate Liiga competition; in recent years the club has played at Nokia Arena, a modern facility opened in the early 2020s, after previously using other local arenas. The club is governed by a member association and maintains activities across senior and junior levels, as well as development programs.

In addition to league play, Tappara participates in national cup competitions and has a history of international club competition appearances. The club’s enduring legacy rests on on-ice success, a dedicated fan base, and a significant role in Tampere’s sports culture.