Raimo Helminen

Raimo Helminen, born on March 11, 1964, is a distinguished Finnish former professional ice hockey player and current ice hockey coach. Known affectionately as "Raipe" or "Maestro" by his fans, Helminen has left an indelible mark on the sport, both on and off the ice.

With a remarkable career spanning twenty-six seasons, he holds the world record for the most international games played by a hockey player. Additionally, he is tied for the record of participating in the most Olympic Games, showcasing his longevity and dedication to the sport.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to ice hockey, Helminen was inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2012. His innovative spirit is also credited with the invention of the saucer pass, a technique that has influenced the game significantly.

As of the 2022-23 season, he serves as the assistant coach of Ilves, continuing to shape the future of ice hockey through his coaching expertise.