“I’m tough but fair”: The new Wolves coach introduces himself

In the following interview, the 42-year-old Finn gives a first insight into what makes him tick, what he knows about the league and what he thinks of his team.

This is not your first time in South Tyrol. In the summer of 2019 you completed your season preparation with Ravensburg in Latsch. Do you like the country and the people?

“I only have good memories of South Tyrol. It's a beautiful country. I really enjoyed it in Vinschgau back then. Above all, I remember the mountains, the food and the people. That’s why I knew roughly what to expect now.”

What is your first impression of Brunico?

“I've only been here for a few days and haven't had time to see the city yet. I hope I can catch up on this at the weekend. The last few hours have been very intense and stressful. I was almost exclusively in the arena, which is beautiful. There were a lot of meetings and conversations.”

Wants to restore Pustertal to its former glory: Tomek Valtonen. © HCP

What do you know about the ICE Hockey League?

“I know the league quite well. I've been following her for the past few years. There are several strong teams and the standard is also very good.”

“I am convinced that we can turn things around.” Tomek Valtonen

You saw the game against Asiago on Tuesday. What is your first impression of your new team?

"The first impression is good. The team has several very fast and strong skaters. I like the team; she has potential. We have a lot of good individual players, but we need to become a team as quickly as possible. We all know that we have to improve in the next few games. But I am convinced that we can turn things around and achieve something.”

Where will you first apply the levers?

“First I have to get to know the players. Then a few things need to be changed. For example the style of play. But it's a long process that started with the first training session. We have to be patient and work hard.”

How did the first training session go?

“The first training session was very good. I had a good impression. The players implemented what I imagined and were very willing. The work ethic was right.”

<a data-caption="Blicken zuversichtlich und hoffnungsvoll in die Zukunft des HC Pustertal: Sportdirektor Patrick Bona, Trainer Tomek Valtonen, Präsident Erich Falkensteiner und Buchhalter Matthias Harrasser (von links). © kp" data-fancybox="inline-136778" target="_image" href="https://s3-images.sportnews.bz/_images/scale/1280x1280/img/2022/12/blicken-zuversichtlich-und-hoffnungsvoll-in-die-zukunft-des-hc-pustertal-sportdirektor-patrick-bona-trainer-tomek-valtonen-praesident-erich-falkenst.jpg"> Looking confidently and hopefully into the future of HC Pustertal: sports director Patrick Bona, coach Tomek Valtonen, president Erich Falkensteiner and accountant Matthias Harrasser (from left). © kp

Did you already know one or two of the HC Pustertal players?

"Yes. I have seen 3 players play in the past. Emil Kristensen, when he defended for KooKoo in Finland, Johan Harju, who was under contract for a long time in Sweden and also for a short time with Jokerit Helsinki, and Filip Ahl, who played against me with Karlskoga during my time at Mora. But I also knew a few other players by name as I have always followed the European leagues.”

How would you describe your hockey philosophy?

“I prefer active ice hockey. We have to act as a unit. The 5 players who are on the ice have to harmonize and work hard. As an individual you have no chance. You can only win as a team. Success begins with defense and ends with attack. That’s why both parts of the team are equally important.”

“Jasse icons warmly recommended me to move to HC Pustertal.” Tomek Valtonen

How would you describe yourself as a trainer: are you a tough guy or a buddy type?

“I would say I am a mix of both. I usually try to find a middle ground. If I have to, I can get really loud. Let’s put it this way: I’m tough but fair.”

A year ago, HC Pustertal was also stuck in the bottom of the table before their compatriot Raimo Helminen initiated the turnaround. Do you know him and have you obtained any information from him?

“I know Raimo pretty well and spoke to him before signing in Bruneck. I got a lot of tips and information from him. Most were very positive. I also spoke to Jasse Ikonen on the phone. And he also warmly recommended me to move to HC Pustertal.”

Interview: Kurt Platter

ICE Regular Season ICE	SP	TV	P
1. Klagenfurt	47	183:101	102
2. Fehervar	46	146:126	89
3. Salzburg	46	142:107	87
4. HCB South Tyrol	46	137:125	76
5. Linz	46	146:116	75
6. Villach	46	155:136	74
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“I’m tough but fair”: The new Wolves coach introduces himself

Tomek Valtonen arrived in Bruneck on Monday. On Tuesday, the new coach of HC Pustertal got an idea of his team during the game against Asiago. On Wednesday he led the first training session. He will sit on the bench for the first time in Laibach on Friday.

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Football

Italy

International leagues

International

Winter sports

Tennis

Other sports

Motorsport

Cycling

Watersports

Events

Favorites

“I’m tough but fair”: The new Wolves coach introduces himself

Tomek Valtonen arrived in Bruneck on Monday. On Tuesday, the new coach of HC Pustertal got an idea of ​​his team during the game against Asiago. On Wednesday he led the first training session. He will sit on the bench for the first time in Laibach on Friday.

Suggestions

Comments (0)

Tomek Valtonen arrived in Bruneck on Monday. On Tuesday, the new coach of HC Pustertal got an idea of his team during the game against Asiago. On Wednesday he led the first training session. He will sit on the bench for the first time in Laibach on Friday.