After a hiatus that felt a touch too long for their devoted fans, Finland`s men`s national volleyball team is not just returning to the World Championship stage in 2025; they are storming back. This isn`t merely a participation entry; it`s a carefully orchestrated resurgence, fueled by strategic investment and a revitalized spirit. From missing the last global tournament to clinching their first continental title, the Finnish narrative is a compelling tale of resilience, strategic development, and, perhaps most importantly, empowerment.
A Decade in the Making: From Peaks to Plateaus
The year 2014 remains a fond memory for Finnish volleyball enthusiasts. Under the astute guidance of the now-legendary coach Tuomas Sammelvuo, the team achieved an impressive ninth-place finish at the World Championship. It was a performance that captivated audiences and etched their name onto the international volleyball map. They showcased a vibrant, passionate style that hinted at a consistent presence among the sport`s elite.
However, the journey isn`t always linear. Following that breakthrough, a 16th-place finish in 2018 signaled a slight dip, and by 2022, Finland surprisingly failed to qualify. The momentum had waned, and the once-bright spark seemed to dim, leaving fans to ponder what might have been. The question wasn`t if they could return, but how, and with what renewed vigor?
The Catalyst: FIVB Volleyball Empowerment Steps In
The answer arrived in 2023, in the form of the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment program. Far from a mere handshake and a nod, this initiative injected tangible resources directly into the Finnish men`s national team. With an investment of $84,000 specifically designated for coach support, the program acted as a crucial catalyst, providing the structural foundation necessary for a comprehensive rebuild. This wasn`t about a quick fix; it was about laying durable technical foundations.
Technical Insight: The concept of “coach support” extends beyond a simple salary. It often encompasses resources for advanced training methodologies, access to cutting-edge analytical tools, scouting capabilities, and the opportunity for coaches to attend international workshops, thereby enhancing the team`s overall technical acumen and strategic depth. This strategic investment is designed to create a sustainable pipeline of talent and expertise.
Olli Kunnari: A Player`s Perspective at the Helm
At the heart of this renewed direction stands Olli Kunnari, the head coach. Much like his celebrated predecessor Sammelvuo, Kunnari was a prominent player in his own right. This pedigree brings an invaluable “player`s perspective” to the coaching role, allowing him to connect with the relatively young squad on a deeply empathetic level. His approach has been one of steady, methodical rebuilding, focusing on cohesion and fundamental strength rather than seeking shortcuts.
One might even suggest that Kunnari`s success proves a delightful point: that those who have walked the walk on the court can indeed lead from the sidelines with considerable flair. His guidance transformed potential into palpable performance.
The Golden Triumph: European Golden League Champions 2025
The tangible proof of this carefully nurtured resurgence arrived in June when Finland made history by winning the European Golden League for the very first time. Their victory over Czechia in the final wasn`t just a win; it was a resounding statement. This was their first major continental title, a momentous achievement that confirmed the growing synergy and strategic brilliance under Kunnari’s leadership.
This triumph was more than just a trophy; it was a psychological turning point. It validated the hard work, the investment, and the belief in a team that was steadily finding its rhythm and its voice on the European stage.
Key Players: The Anchors of the Ascent
The success of any team is a collective effort, and Finland`s resurgence is no exception. Leading the offensive charge is Joonas Jokela, the opposite hitter, whose stellar performance earned him the Most Valuable Player award in the Golden League. He`s expected to be a pivotal figure in the Philippines.
Jokela isn`t alone. The team boasts a core group that has developed remarkable continuity over recent seasons, forming the backbone of their system on court:
- Aaro Nikula: Another potent opposite, adding depth and power to the attack.
- Niklas Breilin: The libero, providing crucial defensive stability and passing accuracy.
- Severi Savonsalmi: A strong middle blocker, key for both offense and defense at the net.
- Akseli Lankinen and Fedor Ivanov: The setters, orchestrating the offense with precision and tactical acumen.
This blend of established talent and promising youth, honed by consistent play and focused coaching, forms a formidable unit ready for the next challenge.
The World Championship Stage: A Timely Test
Finland`s return to the World Championship in 2025 places them in Pool C at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, Philippines. Their schedule presents immediate and significant tests:
- September 14: Opening against Argentina, a consistent force in international volleyball.
- September 16: A formidable clash with Olympic champions France, offering a true measure of their progress.
- September 18: Concluding their pool play against Korea.
This tournament is more than just another competition; it`s a vital opportunity to gauge their progress against the global elite. With the momentum from their Golden League title and the added prospect of co-hosting the 2026 European Championship, the World Championship serves as a crucial barometer. It`s their chance to unequivocally demonstrate that this “second resurgence” is not just a hopeful whisper but a roaring reality.
Finland`s journey back to the World Championship is a testament to the power of strategic support, visionary coaching, and unwavering team spirit. It’s a narrative that blends past glories with future ambitions, proving that with the right empowerment, even a team that has faced setbacks can ascend to new heights. The global volleyball community eagerly awaits to see if the Finnish phoenix will indeed rise to conquer the world stage once more.
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely