Team Finland HWC PARIS!

Quiet time

2011-08-29T19:52:00.002+02:00

This bloggster will be quiet until the next big event. Is Mexico City next?

Thoughts from Timo and Katie

2011-08-29T19:17:00.000+02:00

The trip to the HWC in Paris gave us the opportunity to spend ten days with a fine group of young men who were chosen to represent Team Finland based on the successful changes in their lifestyles, and their efforts on the soccer pitch. It was gratifying to see and be a part of the friendship that the team developed both on and off the field. We were pleased and privileged to be part of the event and hope that all who traveled with us enjoyed the experience. It was a long tournament that went by ever so quickly. Now it is time to concentrate on other more important things, but we hope that soccer will remain part of the players lives wherever the future may take them. We hope that we have been able to contribute in some small positive way to their lives. Special thanks to Petri, Maukka, Edi, and Huli for their efforts, friendship and leadership.

Medal Time

2011-08-29T06:44:00.000+02:00

Click to see the short video of Team Finland receives their medals in Paris

Final Player thoughts

2011-08-28T22:28:00.000+02:00

Here are the final thoughts from Team Finland:
porukalla tassa kirjoitetaan. hieno viikko takana. osa porukast puhuu ranskaa jo aika sujuvasti.....koti ikavaa alkaa olemaan. paitoja on vaihdettu muiden joukkueiden kanssa. hostellilla on halinaa. kisat olivat mahtavat, hyva kuitenkin paasta kotiin. joukkue ei kertaakaan riidellyt keskenaan. ikuiset muistot jaa kaikille.joukkue kiittaa koko organisaatiota mahtavasta reissusta. t. laani, mikko, sami, marko, matti, tilly ja aki.

Final day of pictures from Paris

2011-08-28T22:24:00.000+02:00

Our friend from the Philipines being interviewed

Canadian women rally before their game

Players signed each other's flags

Pregame entrance

Finland Romania

goalkeeping injuries

The Australian referee

Huli gets a yellow card!!

games shown on the big screen

can you find the Finns in the crowd?

Mexico arriving at the field for the final game against Scotland

The Mexican goalie was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament

Suomi on the big screen

Scotland celebrates victory over Mexico

Finland waiting to receive their medals

Recognition of Team Finland for place #42

The medal

Sunday game report

2011-08-28T22:12:00.006+02:00

The Homeless Owls played Romania for the INSP Trophy and Romania proved to be a much stronger opponent and won the trophy 8 - 0. The game was closer than the score indicates, with Finland hitting the post numerous times and that combined with the Romanian outstanding goalkeeping resulted in the 8 - 0 defeat.
Overall the tournament has been an outstanding experience for the players.
In the final tally of goals, every player scored at least once with Mikko at 6, Marko R 1, Aki 7, Sami 5, Matti 9, Teemu 3 and Marko V leading the goalscoring with 11. Mikko, Marko R and Teemu shared the goalkeeping responsibilities.

Saturday game reports

2011-08-27T22:45:00.000+02:00

There was a correction in what trophy Finland would play for. They will compete for the INSP Cup for places 41 - 48. INSP is the International Network of Street Papers. We also feel that it represents INSPiration.

Saturday was a good day for the HWC Team Finland. In the pursuit of the INSP Cup they beat Spain 4 - 2 which qualified them for the semi-final. In the semi-final they faced Germany and beat them 6 - 2. The will play in the final for the INSP Cup on Sunday against Romania for place 41.

Teemu played in goal in place of the injured Marko R. The injury is not serious, but will keep him on the bench for the last game. In Saturday's matches, Marko V. scored five goals and had three assists, including a hat trick in the second half against Spain. The remaining goals were scored by Mikko, scoring one, and Aki and Matti each scoring two.

We are looking forward to a competitive game tomorrow against Romania.

Player point of view for Saturday

2011-08-27T22:34:00.000+02:00

Thanks Mikko!
tanaan voitettiin espanja ja saksa ja paastiin meidan sarjan finaaliin!! mahtava fiilis parin edellisen paivan jalkeen paastiin voiton makuun.. eilinen ilta vietettiin koko joukkueen kesken mista tuli hyva fiilis koko joukkuelle ja sen ansiosta varmaan pelikin kulki omalla tasolla.. tasta on hyva jatkaa huomiseen.

Saturday picture collection

2011-08-27T16:48:00.000+02:00

Letting South Korea know that they should have been placed ahead of Team Finland

Players signing the flag for the US

Teemu ready to play in goal, with Marko injured

Team Finland - Team Spain

Team Finland - Team Germany

sky is looking good for our games

Post game comments on the second win

The shoes have been good on the turf of the fields. Thanks Pele

And then the clouds unleashed a good downpour

Team Italy found a way to the field during the rain

Birds wait for a crumb from the park coffee house

Blue skies again

Friday game report

2011-08-27T08:50:00.000+02:00

The last two games of the group phase were played today. The games were both evenly played. Although the team lost in an overtime penalty shootout to South Korea, they secured a place in the Community Cup where they will play for positions 33 - 40.

Finishing the second group phase, they played Slovenia and lost an even game 5 - 1. The team played well against Slovenia.

Their first game in the Cup round on Saturday will be against Belgium.

Random Friday pictures

2011-08-26T23:40:00.000+02:00

Edi and Maukka converse with Mel Young

Player point of view for Friday

2011-08-26T18:31:00.002+02:00

Thanks Aki:
oli hyva paiva. nyt on viikko takana ja reissu on ollut erittain hyva ja antoisa.kiitos kaikesta.

Player point of view Thursday

2011-08-26T09:15:00.000+02:00

Thanks Teemu!
Tama on tosi hienoo nahda uusia ihmisia ja Pelata niiita vastaa ja pitaa hauskaa.paiva on mennyt hyvin vaikka on havitty mutta voitto ei ole se minka takia Taalla ollaa.hyvin on mennyt ja nahtavyyksia on tullut nahtyy ja se on todella hienoo.hyva on tiimi ja joukkue henki on positiivinen..kiitos Kaikesta mita on saanut kokea..

Thursday game reports

2011-08-25T19:19:00.000+02:00

In the second game of the second group phase, Team Finland played against Kyrzygstan, which was a good physical, strong team who won all the one v one battles. Although both teams had a lot of scoring chances, the team from Asia finish their chances and won 5 - 1.

In the afternoon game Team Finland faced Australia in a very even match that was close all the way through, with Australia scoring the winning goal in the last minutes of play.

Tomorrow the team will play two games against Slovenia and South Korea. These two games will decide the quarter final positions for the next round.

Player point of view Wednesday

2011-08-25T07:14:00.000+02:00

Thanks Matti!
Bonjour,Masa patonkimaasta raportoi! Nain keskiviikko aamuna herattiin aamukaffelle ja croissantille,kevyesti koska seuraava etappi oli junamatka lounaalle pelimestoille sotamiesten herkkuja massailemaan. Luojan kiitos alkulohko saatettiin eilen paatokseen,pelit oli meinaan fyysisesti kovia ja oltiin melkosta tykinruokaa..DEFENCE!!! Tanaan oli vastassa japani,joka olikin yllatyksellisesti aivan toista luokkaa,tasoerot on isoja,eika japseista ollu juurikaan vastusta.tulos10-1,mutta eipa tarvi leijua.Huomenna paastaan toivottavasti raatamaan voiton eteen!
Pelin jalkeen kaytiin paikallisessa `intersportissa`,joka jamppa aivan tilastoissa! meinas lievasti `le obsession` lahtee kasista mutta,ei sit kuitenkaan..PSG sukat jai kateen ja pojille jotai pikku salaa..
Illalla ajeltiin botskilla seinella..ihan mukava romanttinen ilta poikaporukassa
Huomenna taas suomipoika laittaa haisemaan! Pysykaa kanavalla! PEACE!

ps.perus jonkun pikku kansainvalisen tv-haastattelun annoin kisakylan maisemissa.PEACE AGAIN!!

Finland - Japan

2011-08-24T19:38:00.003+02:00

The first game of the second phase, found Team Finland facing Japan. The team continued to improve and won the game 10 -1, with Marko V scoring 3 goals, Aki 3 goals, Mikko 2 goals and Sami 2 goals, while Marko R was in the goal. Tomorrow the second phase continues with Team Finland facing Kyrgyzstan in the morning game and Australia in the late afternoon game. The team continues to face teams from different cultures and continents which is one of the amazing factors of the tournament.

Player point of view for Tuesday

2011-08-24T15:37:00.000+02:00

Thanks to Marko for today's report:
tiistaina pelattiin kaksi pelia. havittiin molemmat ja aika isoin lukemin kroatialle ja chilelle. pelien jalkeen kaytiin eiffel tornissa mika oli aivan mahtava kokemus! tultiin hostelille paivalliselle ja illalla viela pyorahdettiin kaupungilla. n.klo12 oli paa tyynyssa. tv.Marko

Trip up the Eiffel Tower

2011-08-23T19:39:00.000+02:00

Team Finland had the opportunity to climb the stairs to the second level of the Eiffel Tower. Some stayed in the park in the shadow of the tower, while Sami, Matti, Aki, Mikko, Marko V and Katie climbed the stairs. Great views from the two levels.

Tuesday August 23 2011

2011-08-23T19:34:00.004+02:00

Team Finland - Team Croatia:
Even though the result wasn't what we hoped for, the play was much better than against Russia and Hungary from yesterday. The beginning was promising with Finland leading 1 - 0. After that Croatia took over and the final result was 3 - 9 with Marko V, Aki and Sami scoring the goals for Finland.

Team Finland - Team Chile:
Chile is probably the favorite to win the HWC tournament. The tired Team Finland were outscored by the Chileans 1 - 14 with Matti scoring the lone goal for Finland.

Matti ended the first round as the leading scorer for Finland and each of the field players scored at least one goal. Now the team is looking forward to the group of 16 where the competition will be more balanced. The team goal is to get to the 3rd or 4th position in the second group phase.

Monday from Sami

2011-08-23T08:34:00.000+02:00

hi! tanaan pelattiin venaja vastaan ja havittiin 9-2 mut siita jai ihan hyva fiilis, mutta unkarille havittiin 9-1 ja oli aika pettyny olo riemukaari oli kiva naha ja ryhma oli hyva kokemus

Tuesday

2011-08-22T22:26:00.000+02:00

Two more games in this round on Tuesday. The first at 12:20 against Chile and the second at 14:20 against Croatia.

Pictures from Monday August 22 2011

2011-08-22T22:25:00.000+02:00

I am taking close to 100 pictures a day, but will only post 20 or so! Thanks for looking at them. Today's tourist time was a visit to Arc de Triomphe.

Edi, our Rock and Roll coach arrived last night.

stretching before the match

Huli and Andy Hook, the football boss

Marko, captain for the game with Russia

Streets are well marked

First glimpse of the Arc de Triomphe

Antoine, our liaison under the Arc de Triomphe

Teemu found his sukunimi on the wall of the Arc de Triomphe. One of Napoleon's 600 generals.

Under the Arc de Triomphe

Timo returning to the fields.

another angle of the tower

Sami, captain in the Hungary game

Teemu

Marko

Mikko

Aki

Matti

Edi

Petri

Huli

Marko

Timo

Katie

Antoine

Post game conference

WebTV

2011-08-22T20:36:00.002+02:00

I hope that some of you have been able to watch our games on WebTV from the HWC website. Our two games tomorrow are 12:20 against Croatia and 14:20 against Chile.

Finland - Hungary 2 - 9

2011-08-22T20:35:00.000+02:00

The game was a little disappointing as the players expected a better result for themselves. With Marko in the goal and Sami as captain the game was close during the first half at 2 - 3. Second half Team Finland's fitness was tested. A couple of early mistakes allowed Hungary to score two quick goals, and Finland missed three penalty shots.
Tomorrow is a new day and Finland will finish the first round with games against Chile and Croatia.
After three games, Matti leads Team Finland scoring with 5 goals, including 2 goals in the afternoon game against Hungary.

Finland - Russia 1 - 9

2011-08-22T20:30:00.000+02:00

With Mikko in goal and Marko V as captain, Team Finland faced a tough Russia team. The game was much more difficult as Russia is one of the tournament favorites. In the beginning of the game Finland was in the game, but by the second half Russia began to dominate. Matti scored the lone goal against Russia.

Finland - Spain 6 - 3

2011-08-22T20:26:00.005+02:00

Team Finland is off to a good start. They built a 5 - 0 lead in the first half, and then the second half was a little more difficult but the end result was goo. Marko scored the first Team Finland goal of the tournament, while Matti and Mikko each scored two in the game and Teemu scored one. Marko (Lääne) was in goal with Matti as captain.The tournament is off to a positive start for Team Finland

Sunday from the player's point of view

2011-08-21T18:05:00.000+02:00

Marko (The Lääni) shares his thoughts on today's activities:

heti aamulla oli ilmassasuurn urheilujuhlan tuntua. suunniteltiin illalla, etta kaydaan aamulenkilla.. suunnitelmaksi se jaikin, kukaan ei viitsinyt nousta ennenkuin oli aamupala.
kisapaikalle mentiin isolla porukalla. tunnetta oli ilmassa. avaiskulkueessa mentaessa muutama suomalainen turisti tervehtimeita. tunne oli suurta. kisapaikalla juhlallisuksien jalkeen odoteltiin peliamme espanjaa vastaan. siten kun sen aika tuli etta maamme laulu kajahti pariisiin ilmoille niin olihansetippa linssissa.. peli oli hyva voitettiin ja kaikilla oli mukavaa. pitaa viela mainita paikalliset eiffeltorni kauppiaat, ne ottivat hieman yhteen poliisiin kanssa eiffelintornin puistossa. savu ammuksia ja kumiluoteja oli ilmassa. nyt syomaan .

Game #1 Finland - Spain 6 - 3

2011-08-21T18:02:00.000+02:00

The first game for Team Finland was played on the first field. From the posts on Facebook, it looks like some of our fans were able to find the game on WebTV.

Lunch before the game

Getting ready for the game

Shin pads are a must

Matti wears the captain's band for the first game

Pre game tactics

First injury of the tournament, but Teemu is fine with HWC medical attention

post game discussion

Team Finland 1 - 0

The Parade of Nations

2011-08-21T14:00:00.010+02:00

The parade of nations from Trocadero Square through the Eiffel Tower to the HWC stadium is complete. The games are underway. The first game of France and Portugal is finished with the young Portugal team the victor. Joining Team Finland this morning is Patrick from Team Rio. Welcome Patrick and Sirppa. Along the route a family in an apartment waved Finnish flags from their balcony.

Team Finland gathered at Trocadero Square for the Parade of Nations

Proud to carry the Finnish flag

Patrick, from Team Rio, reunites with Phillipines friends

FRIENDS: Finland and Scotland

And so the parade begins

Team Finland with flags and scarves and plenty of enthusiasm

Finnish flags waved from a balcony on the parade route.

The trade is made, a Spanish flag for a Finnish flag

Matti carried the flag onto the field with the other nations.

Mel Young opens the HWC games

A small lunch before game time

The welcoming ceremonies

2011-08-21T08:08:00.000+02:00

With a walk, a metro ride, a bus ride and finally a train ride we found our way to Stade de France for the opening ceremonies. The players were given a tour of the stadium and then the draw for the groups was held. After the draw the teams were invited to the field and Team Finland was able to get a picture with HWC organizer Mel Young.

Welcome to Stade de France

The Homeless World Cup

The Indian players had questions about Matti's tattoos. They wondered if they would rub off.

The Draw

Team Finland with Mel Young

Everyone found the Eiffel Tower!

2011-08-21T07:49:00.000+02:00

We all had our traditional picture taken with the Eiffel Tower as a background. I am sure that many more will be taken.

From the players point of view.

2011-08-20T19:48:00.000+02:00

Mikko has shared his thoughts for the first two days of our time in Paris.
eilen lahdettiin suomesta kohti pariisia lento meni hyvin. pelasin markon ^rajamaki^ kanssa korttia koneessa. pariisin lentokentalla kaytiin pitsalla jonka jalkeen matka jatkui kohti hostellia. siella saatiin heti varusteita hienot pelikengat. huoneet jaettiin seuraavasti mikko,sami ja marko rajamaki aki ja teemu marko ja matti. tutustuttiin moneen joukkueeseen mutta erityisesti kanadan kanssa tultiin hyvin juttuun kaytiin pelaamassa yhdessa kanadan kanssa. illalla syotiin ja kaytiin vahan kavelemassa minka jalkeen pelattiin texas hold em.ia marko voitti ensiksi ja sitten mina. pokerin jalkeen menimme nukkumaan. tanaan kaytiin aamu palalla jonka jalkeen menimme pelialueelle missa oli kaikki jouukueet ja kaytiin saannot lapi syotiin leivat ja kaytiin kahvilla lahella eiffel tornia missa otimme paljon kuvia.. sielta matka jatkui kohti stade fransea missa oli jannittava lohko arvonta paikalla oli myos emmanuel petit stadionilla alkoi jo nalka painamaan ja vihdoin paasimme lahtemaan motellille syomaan. paiva oli kuitenkin ikimuistoinen.

HWC PARIS Day 1 for Team Finland

2011-08-19T03:40:00.004+02:00

Travel day. Meet at the airport at 6AM! Early wakeup for everyone. We will be in Paris in time for lunch.

Waiting at the gate for the flight to Paris

Great smiles as they wait for the flight!

One last Finland picture. The rest will be from France!

On board

Yes, we've landed at Charles DeGaulle Airport in Paris

Bus ride from the plane to the terminal

Huli, always finds a friend on the plane. Young French woman who gave him some good hints about our time in Paris

Got all our bags

Just a little more waiting

Pizza Hut for lunch, French style

Typical side street in central Paris

C.I.S.P. Hostel for the teams. Home for Team Finland for the week.

Pickup game of football with Team Canada on the practice fields of Parc du Kellerman

Timo walking the streets of Paris

Team Finland support staff

2011-08-19T03:38:00.014+02:00

Ari Hulden: Team Finland Social Coach. Huli, as he is known most everywhere, first represented Finland as a player at the HWC held in South Africa. Since then he has attended every HWC. He is a fan of football and Swedish detective novels with Martin Beck. Huli hopes that the Team Finland in Paris will have good spirit as a team and that each of them will enjoy the time and become better friends. He hopes they will bring home many good memories and new friendships to bring power to their lives.

Edi Helkamo: Team Finland Rock and Roll Coach. Edi, who is from Kerava or Sherwood as he calls it, is joining Team Finland for the first time as part of the support staff. He traveled as a fan to HWC Copenhagen and Milan. He wants to be able to help the team keep up their good spirits and to encourage them when they are down. He is proud to be part of Team Finland and thanks Maukka, Huli, Timo and Petri for making it possible. If you meet him, be sure to ask about Elvis!

Petri Heikkinen: President, Homeless Academy

Maurizio Pratesi: Director of HWC Team Finland

Timo Liekoski; Team Manager Team Finland

Katie Liekoski: Social media director for Team Finland

Introducing the players for Team Finland

2011-08-17T21:30:00.000+02:00

Marko, known as The Lääni by his new teammates has been training and eating well in preparation for his participation in the Homeless World Cup. He is one of the two goalkeepers on the team. His wife and twins are happy for him to have this experience. He is looking forward to the good spirit and experience of the event, and hopes to take in all of the good things the tournament offers. Pele is his favorite football player.

Marko

Aki, a player from Helsinki is looking forward to making new friends at the Homeless World Cup, as he considers himself a social guy. He has been paying attention to what he eats and has been training hard in preparation for his participation in the tournament in Paris. Pele is his favorite football player. In Helsinki he coaches a young girls team from FC Kontu.

Aki

Sami has been training hard and playing in games in Tampere to be ready for his participation in the Homeless World Cup in Paris. Football is his favorite sport and Messi is his favorite player. He is looking forward to having a good experience in Paris.

Sami

Mikko, also known as Hede, is a goalkeeper for Team Finland, but may also find some playing time on the field. Football is his favorite sport and Ronald Koieman is his favorite player. Mikko is looking forward to the good friendships to be discovered at the tournament in Paris. He has trained hard in his preparation and has been eating carefully.

Mikko

Marko has been doing much training for his preparation for the Homeless World Cup in Paris. He has worked with kettle bells, concentrated on ball training and has even played some basketball. As a nice guy he is looking forward to having a really good time to give him lots of memories, His favorite football player is Messi.

Marko

Teemu, from Helsinki, considers football number one. He is excited to be traveling to the Homeless World Cup in Paris and is glad there is good team spirit and a good feeling among the players of Team Finland. He has trained hard in preparation, even when only a few players were available for practice. His girlfriend will be watching the games from Helsinki.

Teemu

Matti, also known as Masa, is from Tampere. His favorite player is Pepe. He hopes that in Paris, Team Finland will be able to play calm football. For two years Matti has been training. When he was not selected for Team Rio, he trained even more and stopped smoking to make his chances of success even better. He has played a lot of football in preparation for Paris.

Matti

Training at eerikkilä

2011-08-14T13:50:00.000+02:00

The first day of training camp for Team Finland heading for Paris is underway.

Training time!

Team Finland for Paris

Arriving at eerikkilä

Team meeting to discuss the training schedule.

collecting training gear

järvimaalivahti

Lunch time

Team Finland prepares for Paris

2011-08-05T12:02:00.000+02:00

Video from Ville

2010-10-03T21:47:00.000+02:00

Link to Ville's video on FaceBook

Back to Helsinki

2010-09-28T03:59:00.000+02:00

The team had their final gathering tonight to share their thoughts about this trip. Now it's time to pack and head back to Helsinki. Tomorrow will be a long day of travel. Our flight leaves late in the afternoon on Tuesday and we won't be in Helsinki until late Wednesday afternoon.
Thanks for reading the blog. I know the players have enjoyed hearing from everyone either about the blog or from all the postings on Facebook.
I will try and add some video to the blog once we are back in Helsinki with a healthy and strong internet connection.

Team Finland Monday Tourists

2010-09-28T03:20:00.000+02:00

Rain greeted us this morning on our one chance to do some touring of Rio. Our van picked us up at the Mellow Yellow Hostel and as we exited the tunnel into the next part of Rio, the sun was shining. We first visited the Christ the Redeemer statue finding lots of photo opportunities and then we made our way to a secondary hill for more photo opportunities. Another van ride and we found ourselves ready to ride the cable car to Sugar Loaf Mountain. Every direction you turn you see the fabulous scenes of Rio. Back to the Hostel for the boys as they were hungry.

Fair Play Manager Award to HULI

2010-09-26T23:59:00.000+02:00

Congratulations to Team Finland as they celebrate getting their silver plate and medals for 27th place in the Homeless World Cup. Special congratulations to Ari Hulden who received one of three Fair Play awards given to the managers by UEFA.

Kenneth talking with a fellow participant just before the medal ceremonies.

The presentation of medals begins.

Huli receiving his UEFA award.

The silver plate for Team Finland.

Captain Jani holding the silver plate.

The HWC medal.

Ari Hulden, UEFA Fair Play Coach.

Team Finland waiting their turn.

Waiting in the rain.

Timo and Huli at the after celebration.

Sunday, Philippines, Brazil, Brazil

2010-09-26T18:10:00.000+02:00

The games this morning were the finals for each of the cups. Our team cheered hard for the Philippines who won the Host Cup. The two big finals ended with Brazilian wins in both. Brazil - Mexico women and Brazil - Chile men. This afternoon the players will receive their medals and then we will gather for our final interviews of the tournament. It's been a great ride.

Brazil - Chile before the game

Chile played hard but were outscored by Brazil.

Ville had a prime viewing spot.

The crowd from the beach.

Can you spot Timo in the crowd?

Saturday, a VICTORY over Namibia

2010-09-25T23:17:00.000+02:00

Team Finland finished their participation in the Homeless World Cup on a high note by beating Namibia for third place in the HOST CUP. This puts Finland into 27th place, it's highest position since the South African tournament in 2006. The team ended up winning 7 games out of 12 with the seven wins coming in their last nine games, which is pretty good.

Singing Maamme before the final game

Finland - Namibia

Oi Suomi On again!

Hei Patrick

Timo and Huli taking a break from their tactical discussion.

Looking good.

The tourney DJ

One more picture with Mona before she heads back to Atlanta.

Somebody famous showed up... anyone know who he is? Sure hope he is a football player. Found out: Marcelinho Machado a Brazilian National Team BASKETBALL player.

Huli wanted to be sure to get a picture with Mel and Mel said "always glad to have Finland here".

SATURDAY, a loss to the Philippines

2010-09-25T12:27:00.000+02:00

A little rain overnight, but the sun is shining now. Getting ready for the sentimental game today of Finland - Philippines.

In the first semifinal game for the Host Cup, Philippines beat Finland 6 - 2. Team Finland played hard, but was never able to get it going against the skillful Philippines team who will now play Norway in the Host Cup Final. Finland will face Namibia for third place in the Host Cup. The third place game, this afternoon, will be the final game of the tournament for Team Finland. They will be playing for either 27th or 28th place.

It was great to see the camaraderie amongst the players from both Finland and Philippines. They have been in the same hostel all week and have been supporting each other throughout the week. As they waited for their game each was shouting for the other team, Team Finland yelling "Philippines" and Team Philippines yelling "Suomi"! It was one of those moments that for me represents what this tournament is about.

PreGame

The lineup

Team photo, together as one team

Team Philippines

Maukka and Rudi

Finland - Philippines

Another Friday Victory

2010-09-25T02:54:00.000+02:00

Finland made it's way to the semi finals of the Host Cup by beating Croatia five to three. The game was tightly contested to the very end with Finland leading three different times and Croatia scoring to tie the game. Two late goals by Ville Nurmi and Patrick Kulmala gave Finland the needed margin for victory. The other three goals were scored by Hans Koivu. Finland will play Philippines in the semi final with the winner playing the winner of the Namibia - Norway game for the Host Cup trophy. There are no injuries to report and the team is looking eagerly to tomorrow's contest . What makes the game interesting is that Finland and the Philippines team have been staying in the same hostel and have become good friends.
Friday evening the team was treated to a dinner at Restaurane Reisel by Maukka. Looked to me like they all enjoyed it.

The warmup area

Talking Tactics

The Croatian delegation

Bear Hug

Victory on FRIDAY, Sept 24

2010-09-24T14:11:00.001+02:00

´The morning game finished the second phase of the tournament with Finland beating New Zealand 11 - 0. Jani Heino got his second consecutive shutout and the scoring was paced by Ville Nurmi's hat trick. Ville and Hans Koivu remain Finland's scoring leaders with 13 and 14 goals respectively. Tyko Salonen also contributed by scoring his second goal of the tournament. Other goals were scored by Mikke Hendrickson, Jaakko Kivimäki and Kenneth Holanti. In the afternoon as the playoffs begin, Finland will now play for positions 25 - 32. Finland will face a strong Croatian team in the first playoff game this afternoon.

Thursday TWO victories!

2010-09-23T17:59:00.000+02:00

The team had a tough game against Hungary ending in a sudden death penalty shootout. Jani chose to tend the goal first and was successful in saving the shot. Hans then got to score the winning penalty goal. Great win!
The afternoon game against Team Canada put Finland in a good position to be the top of their group and be highly seeded for the playoff round. Finland was paced by Jani's shutout and Hans Koivu's five goals who now has scored ten goals (but who's counting). Tomorrow morning Finland will play winless New Zealand in their final game of this round. The playoffs will commence in the afternoon.

Finland Canada

Finland Hungary

Rehashing the game result.

New Video

2010-09-23T11:29:00.000+02:00

Finally convinced the computer to download a video to YouTube. Thanks to Ville for the suggestion of the video.
HWC Oi Suomi On!

Training session with Manchester United Coach

2010-09-23T03:25:00.000+02:00

The boys found their way to the army compound at the north end of Copacabana Beach to participate in a training session with a Manchester United coach. They worked up a good sweat learning some new football training drills. The Philippines team, the women's team from India, the men's team from Cambodia joined them in the session, along with several from the South African team. Huli interviewed and Katie recorded Patrick and Kenneth with the ocean as a background. We have been interviewing the players two at a time to get their feelings about the tournament. Hopefully we'll be able to post the interviews on the blog, but the downloading time for video is really long here in Brazil, so they may have to wait until we return to Finland. A walk on the promenade was nice in the early evening when it was not so hot, and Timo, Huli and Katie stopped to try the coconut drink. The man chops the bottom of the coconut off with a fair sized hatchet, while holding the coconut in his other hand. Then he chops open the coconut and you are served coconut milk right from the coconut with a straw. I'm sure other's have experienced this treat, but it was my first time. When you finished with the drink he then chops open the nut and prepares the coconut from inside so that you can eat that as well. Cool treat for a hot afternoon. If you have read this far, I have to tell you my own personal discovery on the way back to the hotel. I saw the most beautiful butterfly just floating around and landing. One of those big ones that we usually only get to see in the enclosures in the Botanical gardens. I didn't get my camera out fast enough, so there is no picture.

First the lecture.

Then on the field training.

Then the photo op.

Ville's photo op.

Team meeting.

Patrick picks the awesome background.

How many?

Unloading coconuts.

Huli was brave and tried the coconut, but I'm not so sure that it will be his favorite.

Coconut kioski

Full moon over Copacabana from our hotel window.

Looking forward to Thursday

2010-09-23T02:11:00.000+02:00

Thursday, the team continues the second phase of the tournament with the morning game against Hungary and the afternoon game against Canada. The game against Hungary will most likely determine the winner of the group in the second phase. On Friday morning the second round will be completed with the game against New Zealand.
After six games every player has scored at least one goal. Ville Nurmi has nine goals, scoring two hat -tricks. Second in scoring is Hans Koivu with six goals.

Wednesday: Beat Switzerland 7 - 2!!

2010-09-22T11:49:00.000+02:00

The second round begins today. Finland's group is Hungary, Canada, Switzerland and New Zealand. Our first game is at 10. The sun is shining. Here's to another great day for the boys in Brazil.

From the coach about the two games yesterday and the game today:
Tuesday was a good day for the boys from Finland, starting with the morning game against Hong Kong. The game ended in a 7 - 1 victory for Finland. The victory included a hat trick from the Captain Ville Nurmi, and Hans Koivu added two goals. The preliminary round concluded with an afternoon game against England, which England won 6 - 4. England got off to a fast start going up 4 - 0 early in the game. Finland, however, fought back to tie the game 4 - 4 which lasted until the last minute of the game when England scored two quick goals. This meant that Finland finished fourth in their group of six. Overall a very good day for Finland and every game has shown improvement.
For the second round Finland is grouped with Switzerland, Hungary, New Zealand and Canada. Wednesday started with a morning game against Switzerland and again the boys played very well, winning the game 7 - 2. The team came within 90 seconds of a shutout. It was a good start for the second round in which Finland plays for places from 24 to 48.

Switzerland Finland

The teams support each other in all the games. Today the Philipines coach was waving the Finnish flag and singing "Suomi"!

Tuesday September 21st

2010-09-21T22:37:00.000+02:00

Finland - England

Finland - Hong Kong

Two games today. The team is anxious to play. The first game of the day is against Hong Kong and Team Finland earned it's first win 7 - 1. They rested after the game and waited in the sunshine for game two. Game two was against England. They were losing 0 - 4 in the first half, but came back to tie the game at 4 - 4. They ended up losing the game, but they played well. (Coach's comments will be later) The English coach told Jani that he was the man of the match.
After the second game, the team headed back to change into their beach clothes, get some lunch in a local restaurant and then head to the beach.

Morning warmup.

Waiting to face England.

Maukka, officially a bag man!

Videos

2010-09-20T23:49:00.001+02:00

HWC in RIO 2010

2010-09-20T23:17:00.000+02:00

I think this might work. This is supposed to be a link to all the pictures I've taken in the four days we have traveled. Please don't think I expect you to look at all of them. I know the players have also taken many pictures so perhaps we can get some of theirs downloaded as well.

Katie, the tourist with some extra pictures.

2010-09-20T22:30:00.000+02:00

Sand sculptures on the beach. This guy wanted to know, since I'm American, if I had Obama's phone number!

The universal sign of the square and the circle of peace and energy and friendship from the Philipines.

The end of the beach.

Buying groceries.

Our hotel street looking back from the beach.

Futbol everywhere.

This lady was part of the parade for some Brazilian candidate and was kind enough to let me take her picture.

Interesting cityscape

And the tourist continues:

My favorite Magnum is in Brazil

Much of the transportation of goods within the city is done this way.

From our hotel rooftop

from the roof top

also from our hotel rooftop

Monday September 20

2010-09-20T18:22:00.000+02:00

Pregame coaches meeting.

Pre game warmup.

Getting ready to meet Poland.

Waiting to be escorted by the referees to the field.

The team is introduced and ready to go.

SUOMI

Jani being interviewed.

First game of the day was against one of the tournament favorites, Poland.
From the coach: The game was a marked improvement over yesterday's opening game. Our first half was even with Poland leading only 3 - 2. The second half, however, Polish futsal experience started taking effect and they were able to win the game. The Finnish goals came from Hans Koivu, who scored two and Tyko Salonen, the game captain, scoring one.

Second game of the day against Argentina.

Argentina Finland

Before the game greetings.

This is what this tournament is about, playing against a team, but still being together.

The blending of the teams.

Game #1 Finland - Palestine 2 - 8

2010-09-20T01:16:00.000+02:00

From our coach:
The tournament finally started with the game against Palestine who are in their first HWC tournament. They brought a very good young team. Our players were a little nervous and surprised how quick the game was. The game was decided in 60 seconds in the first half when the Palestine team scored four goals so that the score went from 1 - 0 to 1 - 4. The rest of the game was quite even, but the Palestinians used their scoring chances more effectively. The games continue tomorrow morning with our first game against Poland, one of the tournament favorites. The afternoon game pits Finland against Argentina.

Look who Huli found in Rio....Mona

Team Finland ready to meet Team Palestine

Presenting Team Finland

SUOMI

The Parade of Nations

2010-09-20T00:04:00.000+02:00

The teams gathered at the end of the Copacabana Beach in a festive atmosphere. Flags were waving, players singing national songs, cameras were busy and then the march began. Team Finland seemed to enjoy the atmosphere and found many new friends on the other teams.

Suomi is ready for the parade!

Patrick makes sure everyone knows where we are from!

Ask Kenneth how the coconut milk tasted!!

Ville and Tyko on the beach.

Jaakko decided he'd better try the coconut.

Kenneth and Patrick posing with the team from Hong Kong.

Hey Patrick! What number?

Jani carries the flag for Team Finland in the parade.

Huli and one of his many friends at the tournament.

Suomi on ihana.....

OK Patrick and Ville. What country is she from ?

On parade.

Flags were everywhere.

The Opening Ceremony. Can you spot the Finns?

Jani waved the flag for Suomi!

Looking out over the stands.

Team meeting before the first game.

OPENING DAY at the HWC

2010-09-19T11:15:00.000+02:00

The parade of nations will begin at 9:30 and Team Finland will play their first game on Pitch 2 at 13:55 against Palestine.

From the players point of view.

2010-09-19T02:28:00.000+02:00

I've asked the players to contribute to the blog and Hans has offered to be first. He's actually doing a blog for himself. Thanks Hans.

From Tyko Salonen: loistavat fiilikset,sellaisia juttuja mita rahalla ei saa,tiukkoja peleja,just kun rupeaa lampeemaan ja vahan sisaistamaan juttuja ni pelit on jo loppu,on kannattanut treenata.suomea on hieno edustaa

From Kenneth Holanti:
The day started about 8 o'clock with breakfast and 11 hundred we played with new zealand what was an good match beside that we won 9 or 10 to 0.... Nailed...Right on..! and then few hours of swimming and looking at some womens matches we played with croatia and won again... Now the score was 5-3 to us... Nice! Then some relaxation some guys went sleepin and some of us (me and Tyco) went out looking at stores for the souvenirs and such... The evenings last team thing to do was at a local beef restaurant where we went to eat them Brasilian damn big beefs... Thank god everyone got out from the restaurant live and well after those steaks HUH!

From Jani:
Paiva alkoi pelilla Unkaria vastaan. Johtuiko pidemmista unista vai mista, mutta peli oli tavallista unisempaa ja vakinaista. Voitto tuli kuitenkin rankkareilla, ratkaisun teki Hans maalin muodossa ja Jani torjumalla Unkarin yrityksen. Pelien valissa katseltiin muiden peleja ja osa kavi rannalla. Toinen peli Kanadaa vastaan olikin jo paljon parempi pelillisesti ja lukemat olivat sen mukaiset, 6-0. Pelien jalkeen porukka jakautui huilimaan hostellille tai rannalle. Kaytiin Jaakon kanssa testaamassa paikallinen liharuoka Copa Grillissa ja hyvaa oli:) Kaytiin illalla joukkueiden ruokapaikalla jossa Suomen joukkue otettiin vastaan taputusten kera. Meidan jengilla on kuulemma spirittia kentalla ja sen ulkopuolella! Hostellilla pidettiin perinteinen pokeriturnaus. Fiilis joukkueella on hyva, lukuunottamatta koti-ikavaa joka on allekirjoittaneella kova. Huomenna pelit jatkuu Uusi-seelanti pelilla. Terveisia kotiin ja Vilille!

From Ville Heartbreak Kid Nurmi:
Hola!!!Taalla sita ollaan Rio De Janeirossa, ja tunnelma paranee paiva paivalta...Eilen paastiin jatkien kaa Itsensa Manchester Unitedin organisaatioon kuuluvan valmentajan oppeihin ja puitteet olivat todella kansainvaliset....viereisella kentalla harjoitteli Flamengon juniori joukkue...Kylmia vareita on siis riittanyt ja varmasti tulee viela lisaa...Pàkko mainita myos etta copacabanalla on maailman kauneimmat naiset... Oiiih!!!!Tanaan jatkuu pelit Unkaria ja Canadaa vastaan ...Nyt lahden aamiaiselle!!! Bon Dias!!!

From Jaakko on Tuesday:
Aamu alkoi Ugandan juoksija sarahin kanssa jutelessa ugandan sodasta ja muista ongelmista aamupalapoydassa. Paivan hong kong otteluun aloitettiin valmistautuminen hosetellilla linimentti sessioilla ja tunnelma oli lungi :) itse ottelu hoidettiinkin sitten mallikkaasti 7-1 voitolla. wuhuu!! pelin jalkeen mentiin osan porukasta kanssa testaamaan cobacapaanan aallot ja se oli mielettoman hauskaa. seuraavana olikin sitten vuorossa paivan odotetuin tapahtuma eli suomi-englanti ottelu.paatettiin porukalla ettei mitaan anneta ilmaiseksi ja kunnon taistelu siita syntyikin. koko jengi antoi kaikkensa noustiin 4-0 asemasta jo tasoihin mutta lopuksi parempi vei voiton lukemin 6-4. me naytettiin niille mita on suomalainen sisu ;) tunnelma oli katossa vaikka takkiin tulikin. illalla lahdettiinkin sitten maukan tarjoamalle aterialle ja polskuttelemaan rantsulle. hostellilla laitettiin illalla jo perinteeksi syntynyt pokeririnki pystyyn ja oltiin lungisti :)

From Erik-Michael on Monday:
His feelings:matka ollut aivan loistava kaikin puolin :) aluksi oli sekaannusta kun tultiin kentãlle riioon mutta oli se sen arvosta koska tãmã on aivan upea paikka ja ihmiset on aivan mielettõmãn mukavia joka puolella :) ollaan hãvitty kaikki alku pelit mitã on ollut mutta tãstã ei voi kun nousta ylõs pãin :) ollut todella kovia vastuksia vastassa ellei pois lueta argenttiinaa joka oli voitettavissa mutta oma peli ei toiminut :( tãnããn oltiin menossa ryhmããn mutta ei lõydetty paikkaa ja nyt on kyllã todella vãsynyt olo :) mutta paikalle jos pitãã antaa arvosanan niin annan 10 :)

From PATRICK on Sunday:
Okei...Siis aamu alkoi aamiaisella mellow yellowissa porukalla...Juteltiin niin Hollannin kuin Ruotsin teamin kanssa...
Ruotsalaisten kanssa sovittiin etta mennaan yhdessa huomenna viettamaan aikaa ryhmaan:))
Joo...Aamiaisen jalkeen mentiin porukalla kledjaamaan paraatia varten..
On kerrassaan huikea ja jokseenkin epatodellinenkin fiilis kavella copacabanan ranta bulevardia maajengin purje paalla:))
No...Omasta puolesta annan tayden kympin suomen mekkalalle paraatin aikana...Huikeaa vapautumista tapahtunut ihan parissa paivassa:))
Paraati kulki bulevardin puoleen valiin missa pelialue sijaitsee...
Joukkueet keraantyi katsomoihin odottamaan kisojen virallista avausta jonka itseoikeutetusti tuli Mel Young tekemaan...Pienen PA ongelman kera kisat saatiin kaynnistetyksi:))Let the games began:)))
Suomen jengi kokoontui pieneen palaveriin rantsulle jossa kaytiin hiukan lapi paivaa ja tuleviakin paivia:))
Kevyen lounaan jalkeen taas kledjattiin mutta talla kertaa pistettiin peliasut paalle ja nokka suunnattiin jalleen kisapaikalle:))
Vastaan paivan pelissa asettui Palestiina..Kisojen new comer...No itse peliin en ota juuri nyt kantaa tassa...Tappio tuli avaus ottelussa mutta pienen pettymyksen jalkeen elama taas hymyili...Katsaeltiin porukalla viela Norjan naisten ottelu Haitia vastaan....

Tultiin hostellille takaisin ja peseydyttiin ja suunnattiin nokka kohti rion metroa...Kaytiin porukalla pyorimassa hiukan ja katseltiin yllari futista telkusta eraassa baarissa...No joo...Mutta paiva on ollut kerrassaan huikea...Ja uskon etta saadaan maistaa samaa viela useAmpi paiva....

From HANS:
Jei taalla ollaan. oli kohtaisen parayttava kokemus saapua kentalle kun paa meni ihan sekasin brasialaisesta nais kauneudesta. Taksi matka hotellille oli melkonen kokemus.. kodittomat kavelivat vastaa keskella auto tieta. muutenkin arvelutta kuski hiaman ;) hotellille paastyamme ja siina vaiheessa reilun vuorokaudeen valvoneena lahdimme viela etsimaan ruokapaikkaa yellow mellowta. loistavan joukkue hengen ansiosta jaksoimme ilman suurempaa huutelua. erityisesti kosketti brasilian asunnottomat ja loistava katu taide! aamu alkoi filippiinilaisen valmentajan kanssa rupatellessa ja loistavan kahvin kera. taa paiva menee via aikaerosta toipuessa ja illemmalla lohko arvonnat.. huomen alkaa pelit!

Saturday at the beach.

2010-09-19T02:25:00.000+02:00

Timo, Maukka and I found our way in the morning to the Copinha Hostel where the team is staying. We got the grand tour, and met Raphael at the front desk. It was time for the players to register, get their credentials and the Nike gear, so off to the beach. I guess the weatherman was correct as it rained sporadically throughout the day, including on our way to the beach and then really heavy on the way back. The team got to see many of the other teams as everyone was checking in at the venue. Lots of singing, dancing, kicking soccer balls and just good conversation going on most of the day. Didn't see Team Finland dancing but the Mexican women's team sure did plenty. Each member of the team received from Nike a pair of shoes, a shirt, socks and a bag. Jani, as goalkeeper, also got goalie gloves. It had been a long time since breakfast so Maukka and a couple of the players went in search of pizza. Only took two hours and a few Brazilian reais. Next order of business was the draw of the teams for the groups. Finland is in Group F and will play Poland, England, Argentina, Hong Kong and Palestine in the first round. Ville has made friends with one of the Palestine players, but he told him tonight "we are friends now, but on the field, no more friends". Timo, Maukka and I walked the beach for a couple of hours waiting for the coaches meeting, and then we went to find the team as they were having dinner at the Mellow Yellow Hostel. Tomorrow the festivities begin and Finland will play their first game.

Outside the Copinha Hostel

Hans and Mikke training outside the hostel.

Patrick welcomes Timo to the Hostel.

The teams gather at the venue and everyone starts taking pictures.

Teams get together in celebration of the HWC.

The Saturday official team photo. Now they have their credentials .

Celebrate Team Finland.....SUOMI

Checking out the new shoes.

Patrick will have to tell the story about this picture.

Another round of cheering for SUOMI

Ordering pizza at Dominos

Timo and Katie at the end of the Copacabana beach.

The view of the Copacabana Beach from the north end.

On the hills behind the beach is one of the many favelas in Rio. Quite a contrast.

Just finishing dinner at the Mellow Yellow Hostel and Timo giving them the game schedule.

And finally we are in RIO

2010-09-18T02:39:00.000+02:00

Maukka giving last minute travel information to the team.

Team Finland for their first official photo at the Helsinki airport.

Leaving Lisbon heading for Rio.

Waiting at the gate for the flight to RIO

Waiting for luggage in RIO

Our guide has arrived and is looking for the bus!!

What about a 3AM wakeup call, 3:30AM taxi to the airport and a 5:45AM flight to Lisbon to start the day? Then it was a long walk through the Lisbon airport to get to the next gate, but we made it in good time. Settled in on the plane for a ten hour flight which was enough time to watch at least two movies. Finally we are in Rio and all of our luggage arrived. Timo and Katie took a taxi to their hotel while Maukka and Huli and the lads caught a bus to the Mellow Yellow Hostel headquarters for the HWC. But oops, the bus didn't show, so at this moment they are still waiting at the airport, but I have faith that they will shortly be at their hostel and then able to get some dinner.

Training at Eerikkilä

2010-09-08T20:04:00.000+02:00

The players gathered at the training facility for a three day training camp.

Introducing Team Rio

2010-08-26T14:12:00.000+02:00

The staff and players are preparing for Rio. I'd like to introduce them.

THE STAFF:
Here are Huli, Maukka and Timo. Huli is the man who works with the Homeless Academy and is the one who keeps all the players involved in the program. He also played for Team Finland at the Homeless World Cup in South Africa. Maukka is from the Finnish Football Federation and also works with sports programs for the minority community. Timo, the retired Finnish Federation coach, is now coaching his third Homeless World Cup team from Finland.


Huli


Maukka

Timo

THE PLAYERS:

Meet Tyko. He is new to the game, starting to play only three years ago with the Homeless Academy team. He has worked very hard in practice and in the exercise sessions to be included in Team Rio. Tyko is an outdoors man who loves fishing and swimming and sauna and swimming in the ice water after sauna!

Tyko

Tampere sends us another player for Team Finland. Please meet Hans. He is a 24 year old player who enjoys practicing and hopefully will find the back of the net with his hard shot. Hans has played with the B juniors of TPV. One of the staff told me that Hans is a "velikulta". Best I can figure it means that while we are in Brazil we will need to be ready for a few practical jokes from Hans, who certainly gives the appearance of being the quiet one.

Hans

Jaakko is from Tampere. This 30 year old is everyone's friend. He is a left footed soccer player with a hard shot who earlier was part of the TPV junior program. He has an easy personality. Jaakko enjoys practicing and is getting ready for the trip to the HWC in Brazil.

Jaakko

The goalkeeper is next. Please meet Jani. He is from Tampere and makes the trek to Helsinki to practice with Team Finland. The alumni goalie, Jari, works with him at practice making sure he maintains the intensity, strength and agility to be a goalkeeper in the fast paced streetsoccer game. Living a clean life helps him play hard for Team Finland.

Jani

Ville is next for you to meet. He is a former hockey player, who has also tried a few rounds in the boxing ring. Now he is part of the HWC Team Finland. One of his hobbies is doing improvisational theater. He has already demonstrated that he will overcome obstacles to succeed. At a recent practice he had an injury that kept him from running so he volunteered to play in goal so that he could be part of the practice. He'll be ready for the HWC in Rio!

Ville

Please meet Micke. Micke has joined his brother in using football to change the direction of his life. He played football for 15 years but stopped because of drugs and now it is his passage to living happy today and tomorrow. (Micke's words) He has challenged himself to prepare for the HWC in Rio, participating in the weekly strenuous exercise routine. He has used these exercises to improve the use of his arm that was severely injured in a train accident. He is training hard to maintain his new life and to be able to participate in the Homeless World Cup in Brazil.

Micke

Introducing Kenneth. When I saw him last year beginning his training I noticed how intense he was. It has paid off for him. When there are practices for the team, Kenneth directs the warmup exercises. When his teammates are learning new routines with the kettle bells, Kenneth shows them the routine. Kenneth is focused on making the most of his new life, and is certainly looking forward to Rio.

Kenneth

Please meet Patrick. He has been training very hard for the trip to Rio. You should see him exercise with the Kettle Bells. He gives excellent effort when exercising and when training, and having lost one arm does not keep him from any of the team training and exercise. Patrick lives in Helsinki and spends some of his time speaking to groups about drug addiction.

Patrick

The Homeless Academy of Finland

2010-08-24T18:02:00.000+02:00

The Homeless Academy coordinates and develops soccer for the homeless in Finland. Here is a link to their website:
Homeless Academy

Rio 2010 Homeless World Cup Promo - English

2010-08-23T07:43:00.000+02:00

HWC Team Finland alumni success stories.

2010-08-23T07:20:00.000+02:00

Niko,the Captain of the Milan 2009 team. Niko took two years to make his way to Team Finland, but when he did he became captain of the team and a part of the success of their time in Milan. He works with his family now, and continues to play with the Stray Dog team all year round. He is also a member of a third division team and gets some playing time as a substitute, hoping to make his way to a starting position.

Mika, who played for Team Finland in Milan, Italy in 2009 went back to school to finish his high school work and is hoping to continue his studies in university.

Mika looking stylish in his new hat!

Jari, goalkeeper for Team Finland in 2008 in Australia has stayed with the program and shows up to train the Team Rio goalkeepers. Since his time in Australia, Jari has lost more than 60 pounds through training, diet and exercise and maintaining a good lifestyle.

Anne and Benku both traveled to Australia in 2008 representing Team Finland. Anne was honored with the Fair Play award for her play and now plays for a women's club team in Helsinki. She and Benku continue to enjoy their lives together and are there supporting Team Rio.

Anne and Benku

Team Finland: new players and alumni gather for practice.

2010-08-22T15:49:00.000+02:00

Team Finland practices for Rio

2010-08-22T15:35:00.000+02:00

Jaakko, Hans and Tyko

Homeless World Cup 2010

2010-08-09T09:00:00.000+02:00

Click for the home page for Homeless World Cup

Working at the kioski at the Simo Syrjävaaran Tournament

2010-08-08T19:38:00.000+02:00

Kahvia, Makkara, Pulla, Trip...

Patrick playing for Team Rio

Team Rio and Stray Dogs took their turns working at the kioski selling coffee and makkara and playing games. The profits will be used to sponsor a boat trip to Stockholm in the winter to play against the Swedish team.