Finnish Hockey Players Coming To Delco For Annual Exchange Program

HAVERFORD, PA — Once again, a slew of Finnish hockey players are heading to Delaware County as part of the Haverford Hawks’ Finland | USA Exchange program.

For nine days, the Haverford Hawks will host the Viikingit Helsinki players in their homes, immersing them into daily life, giving them the chance to live like American teens.

These visiting players will participate in a hockey tournament that kicks off on Thursday.

Twelve teams are participating in this tournament, including three each from the Haverford Hawks and Viikingit. Other hockey clubs participating are Chester County Skating Club, Springfield Twp Hockey League, Hershey, Snider Hockey, Wissahickon, and Valley Forge.

On Sunday, the combined group of over 225 players will attend the Flyers game against the Florida Panthers, which will be the first NHL game for a majority of the visitors from Helsinki.

And, throughout the week the visitors will make trips to New York City and Philadelphia.

"Over the years, many of the bonds built through the Finland | USA Exchange have become life-long friendships," organizers said. "These friendships inspire a curiosity for travel and learning and provide an education far beyond what they can learn on the ice or in their classrooms."