The TriggerHub Sheffield Steeldogs are thrilled to welcome Finnish forward Joonas Larinmaa to the pound for the upcoming 2025/2026 season.
Larinmaa brings a wealth of European experience and a proven top level hockey IQ aswell as a strong playmaking ability to bolster the Steeldogs’ lineup.
Joonas is a 32-year-old forward from Finland with extensive experience in Mestis, the second-highest level of professional ice hockey in the country. Over the years, he has become a familiar presence in the league, showcasing consistent performance and leadership on the ice.
In addition to his time in Mestis, Joonas also played in the Alps Hockey League with HDD Jesenice, where he made a significant impact and helped the team capture the league championship.
During the 2024–25 season, he split his time between two Mestis clubs — TUTO Hockey and JoKP — continuing to contribute with his veteran presence and strong two-way play.
Joonas Larinmaa: “I am really excited about this next stage in my career. My passion for hockey has never faded, but now it feels like the flame is burning brighter than ever and I want to prove that I haven’t played the best hockey of my career yet.
After talking a lot with Slava, I am convinced that we will experience great moments together with the team and the fans in the upcoming season.”
Slava Koulikov: “I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome Joonas to our team.
Joonas is an experienced, top-end forward with a high hockey IQ and playmaking ability, who will add a whole new dimension to our offence.
On top of that, he plays with tremendous energy and a relentless compete level every time he steps on the ice. He’s the kind of player who makes those around him better.
Joonas’s ability to make plays under pressure, combined with his strong work ethic, will bring an edge to our lineup, and I’m really looking forward to working with him this season.”