KalPa, a Finnish ice hockey team, has announced the departure of its sports director Anssi Laine, who will be moving abroad for a new opportunity. Laine joined KalPa in the spring of 2020 and played a crucial role in building last season's championship-winning team. In his statement, Laine expressed immense gratitude for his time with KalPa, highlighting the close-knit community that includes the team, its staff, fans, and other stakeholders.

Laine's exit marks a significant change for KalPa as the team prepares for the future without one of its key architects. While the news of his departure may come as a shock to fans and players alike, Laine has stated that his new employer will announce further details soon. His move reflects not only personal career growth but also the potential for international opportunities within the sports management sector, given his success at KalPa.

Stepping in to fill Laine's role is Sami Kaartinen, who has been with KalPa as a physical and skating coach since the 2019-2020 season. Kaartinen's familiarity with the team's identity and operations is expected to provide continuity during this transitional period. His promotion signifies KalPa's focus on maintaining their competitive edge as they adapt to changes in leadership within their organization.