The States is not the only place where dudes enjoy football

For those who are confused, this article focuses only on American football (not soccer-football). Though still being a new sport in Finland, football has already attracted an impressive amount of players, due to the high-adrenaline spirit it can offer.

Today, accompanied with MOINK20 to discover a regular football training day, is Jesse “Big Boy” Vuoksenturja – a professional defender in Lappeenranta’s football team.

+ So, how long have you been playing football?

+ Since high school I guest, especially the time I studied in the States.

+ And what is the name of your football team at the moment?

+ Wildmen. We represent Lappeenranta city.

If you have ever seen a air-balloon building on Yliopistokatu, that is actually the Wildmen’s gridiron

+ Can you tell me more about Wildmen, like, does it belong to a football league or cup?

+ Yea it is. We are playing in the Yliopisto Sm-Sarja League, and it has been around for five years now. Wildmen was the champion last year.

When practicing, the whole team will be divided in to three groups: The offensive…
Defensive…
…and the “catchers”, whose role is basically pinching down the offensive’s runner

+ How many players are there in the Wildmen?

+ Roughly 30 dudes. Though most of the team are Finns, but guys from other countries can surely join as well.

+ Nice. And how often do the team train?

+ Twice a week, Monday and Wednesday in the evening.

After separated trainings, the whole team will gather and practice real games
On my visit day, the defensive had been slightly better; they managed to pinch down most of the attacks
However, the offensive got themselves some victories as well; this is crucial, as they need to score during real matches
After each training session, the coaches will gather their pupils and show their advices. The atmosphere in general has been very harmonious and constructive

 

+ So, last question: How can I join the team, if I’d like to?

+ Oh no problem, just come and practice with us!

The Wildmen with coaches (in black), from right to left: Mikko Koskinen, Martti Välimaa, Mikko Hovi, and Esa Suhonen

About the interviewee: Jesse Vuoksenturja is my good friend at Saimaa UAS, currently study International business.

Thank you for this opportunity to know the Wildmen, and how exciting football is. I look forward to joining your team in the near future.

Jesse – hyvä mies 😀

Khanh Tr.