Virus Postpones Finland-Canada Women’s Hockey Olympic Opener
Finland’s national women’s hockey team is currently facing a challenging situation at the Milan Cortina Olympics. A stomach virus has significantly impacted their roster, leading to the postponement of their opening game against Canada, originally scheduled for February 10. The new date for the match is set for February 12.
Impact of the Norovirus Outbreak
The decision to delay the game was made immediately after Finland’s practice on February 10, where only eight skaters and two goalies were present. The team had been affected by a norovirus outbreak that began the previous Tuesday, with 13 players in quarantine or isolation.
Support from Opponents
In light of the situation, coaches and officials from opposing teams have extended their support. Hockey Canada general manager Gina Kingsbury expressed sympathy for her Finnish counterparts, stating, “On behalf of Hockey Canada and our team, we want to wish Team Finland a speedy recovery.”
- Originally scheduled for: February 10
- New game date: February 12
- Players affected by the virus: 13
Finland’s coach Tero Lehterä highlighted that it would be unfair to ask the remaining healthy players to compete under these conditions. Discussions about forfeiting the match were avoided as all parties focused on finding a reasonable solution.
Health Concerns and Team Dynamics
Lehterä mentioned that the first signs of illness appeared right after a full practice session. He emphasized the importance of not risking the health of his players or the Canadian team. “Most of them are getting better but not healthy enough to play,” he said, stressing the need to prioritize health over competition.
Despite the adversity, Lehterä remains optimistic. “It might become a strength,” he remarked, trying to maintain a positive outlook. Finland’s captain, Jenni Hiirikoski, also emphasized the importance of team support. “We try to focus one day at a time,” she said.
Looking Ahead
The postponement allows Finland to rest before their next game against the United States on Saturday. This extra time could prove beneficial as they regroup and recover. The women’s tournament continues with anticipation, particularly as Finland, alongside Czechia, is considered a strong contender for medals.
Historically, Finland is a four-time Olympic bronze medalist, with their last medal earned at the 2022 Beijing Games. This year’s tournament promises to be competitive, especially with the continued support of the international hockey community during this challenging time.
