Tero Lehterä, the head coach of the Finnish women's hockey team, delivered a three-minute speech addressing a controversy related to his previous remarks about female athletes. His comments, suggesting that the players tend to engage in TikTok activities, sparked backlash from some who felt he was belittling women hockey players and their commitment to sports. Lehterä's statement was made following a match against Switzerland, where he was prompted to respond to the growing concerns regarding his words.

In his address, Lehterä emphasized that he intended no offense and insisted that discussions had already taken place within the team to clarify and reassure the players. He stated that his comments were meant to be light-hearted and part of a broader conversation about the atmosphere among the athletes. Despite the backlash, Lehterä maintained that he values the dedication of the female players and wishes to support their efforts in excelling in the sport.

This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding comments made by coaches and the importance of clear communication within sports teams, especially in the arena of women's sports, where any perceived slight can lead to serious discussions. As the Women's Hockey World Championships approach, it becomes crucial for all stakeholders to foster a supportive and respectful environment.