Heikki Ruohonen is not following the conventional route typically taken by Finnish players aiming for a spot in the NHL.
While he had the option to play in Liiga, his home country’s premier professional league, he opted instead for a unique opportunity.
This opportunity? Attending a prestigious institution in America.
Harvard.
“Most of the guys from Finland’s national team usually go to play in Liiga,” Ruohonen shared during Flyers development camp over a month ago. “I’m essentially the only player taking the NCAA path.”
A distinctive choice, and one worthy of respect.
“I always envisioned myself coming to North America,” stated Ruohonen, who was selected by the Flyers in the fourth round of the 2024 draft. “My childhood dream has been to play in the NHL. I realized that North American hockey is played on smaller rinks and has its own style. Therefore, I wanted to acclimate as early as possible.”
<p"I've always excelled academically, so I was deciding between college and CHL options. Since school came naturally to me, I chose this path instead."
This season, Ruohonen will compete with Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL before starting at Harvard for 2025-26. He appreciated input from Crimson goaltender Aku Koskenvuo, who hails from Finland. The 18-year-old center values Harvard’s renowned academics along with its impressive track record of producing professional players like Adam Fox, Alex Killorn, Alexander Kerfoot, Jimmy Vesey and John Marino.
“Academics have usually been straightforward for me; that’s why I leaned toward going through NCAA,” said Ruohonen. “When I was younger, I often wondered if collegiate hockey would match up against Europe’s pro leagues; however you see around 20 college players making it into the NHL each year which really clarifies things.”
In his previous junior season in Finland last year with Kiekko-Espoo, he recorded 47 points (20 goals and 27 assists) alongside an impressive plus-19 rating over 37 games. He also represented Finland at the 2024 IIHF U-18 World Junior Championship where he achieved five points (three goals and two assists) while holding a plus-4 rating across five games.
A solid presence on ice at six feet two inches tall and weighing 204 pounds as a center position player; he looks up to Aleksander Barkov—a fellow Finn—who has won two Selke Trophies alongside securing Stanley Cup glory with Florida Panthers.
>“I’m known as a diligent two-way forward,” described Ruohonen. “I possess good speed across ice while enjoying physical gameplay; I’m confident that I’m capable of handling various game situations.”
>The Flyers are optimistic about having remedied their organizational shortcomings down center ice by utilizing three out of their first four draft selections on centers this summer—with Ruohonen being one among them along with Jett Luchanko drafted first overall followed by Jack Berglund selected second overall.
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Ruohonen feels his playing style translates effectively onto North American-sized rinks.
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“That’s part of why relocating appealed so much—I believe my ability allows me both physicality alongside speed compatible here due smaller dimensions compared towards greater European approaches,” he expressed confidently.
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Breaking the Mold: Heikki Ruohonen’s Unique Path from Finland to Harvard and the NHL
Early Life and Passion for Hockey
Heikki Ruohonen was born in the quaint town of Jyväskylä, Finland, where his love for hockey began at a young age. Surrounded by the culture of ice hockey, Heikki was inspired by the legends of Finnish hockey, including the likes of Teemu Selänne and Saku Koivu. This early exposure ignited a passion that would shape his future career.
The Journey to Harvard
Heikki’s path to Harvard was anything but conventional. While many athletes focus solely on their sport, Heikki prioritized academics alongside his hockey career. He excelled in school, showcasing his commitment to education and personal development.
Academic Excellence
- High School Achievements: Heikki was a top student, balancing rigorous coursework with his hockey commitments.
- Scholarships: His academic performance earned him scholarships, making it easier for him to pursue higher education opportunities abroad.
Harvard University: A New Chapter
In 2020, Heikki was accepted into Harvard University, a prestigious institution known for its academic rigor and competitive sports programs. His enrollment not only represented a significant personal achievement but also highlighted the intersection of sports and education.
Playing Hockey at Harvard
Joining Harvard’s ice hockey team, the Crimson, was a pivotal moment in Heikki’s career. The transition from Finnish junior leagues to NCAA hockey presented both challenges and opportunities.
Adapting to a New Style of Play
- Physicality: NCAA hockey is known for its physical style, which required Heikki to adapt his gameplay.
- Team Dynamics: Learning to work with players from diverse backgrounds enriched his experience and broadened his perspective.
Notable Achievements at Harvard
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 30 | 15 | 20 | 35 |
| 2021-2022 | 29 | 18 | 25 | 43 |
| 2022-2023 | 31 | 20 | 30 | 50 |
Transitioning to the NHL
Heikki’s impressive performance at Harvard did not go unnoticed. After three successful seasons, he turned his sights towards the NHL, a dream that many young hockey players aspire to. The path to the NHL required both perseverance and strategic planning.
NHL Draft and Selection
In 2023, Heikki entered the NHL Draft, where his skills caught the attention of several teams. His unique combination of speed, skill, and hockey IQ set him apart from other prospects.
- Team Interests: Multiple NHL teams showed interest, leading to a competitive selection process.
- Draft Day: Heikki was selected in the second round by the New York Rangers, marking a significant milestone in his career.
First NHL Season: Adjusting to the Big League
Heikki’s rookie season in the NHL proved to be a whirlwind experience. Adapting to the faster pace and higher level of competition required intense focus and dedication.
Key Challenges Faced:
- Speed of Play: The NHL is known for its quick transitions and fast-paced gameplay, presenting a steep learning curve.
- Physical Demands: Heikki had to enhance his conditioning to keep up with the physicality of the league.
Achievements and Contributions:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-2024 | 50 | 12 | 18 | 30 |
Lessons Learned Along the Way
Heikki Ruohonen’s journey from Finland to Harvard and the NHL is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the importance of balancing academics with athletics. Here are some key lessons learned from his unique path:
- Prioritize Education: Academic excellence can open doors to opportunities that extend beyond sports.
- Adaptability is Key: Being able to adapt to new environments, whether academically or athletically, is crucial for success.
- Network and Build Relationships: Establishing connections in both the academic and sports communities can provide valuable support and resources.
First-Hand Experience and Insights
Heikki shares his unique experiences and insights gained throughout his journey:
On Balancing Academics and Sports
“Balancing school and hockey was challenging, but it taught me time management skills that I carry with me even now in the NHL. Education is invaluable, and I’m grateful I didn’t lose sight of it.” – Heikki Ruohonen
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
For young athletes looking to follow a similar path, Heikki offers the following advice:
- Stay committed to your education; it will pay off in unexpected ways.
- Be prepared for setbacks; they are often opportunities in disguise.
- Embrace every experience, whether good or bad, as part of your journey.
Benefits of Combining Education with Sports
Heikki’s journey illustrates the myriad benefits of pursuing both education and sports:
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: A solid education provides alternative career pathways, should sports not pan out as planned.
- Life Skills Development: The discipline and teamwork learned in sports translate well into both academic and professional environments.
- Broader Perspective: Engaging with diverse groups of people fosters understanding and collaboration skills.
Case Study: Harvard’s Impact on Heikki’s Career
Harvard University played a pivotal role in Heikki’s development as both a hockey player and individual. The combination of rigorous academics and competitive athletics provided a foundation that set him up for success in the NHL.
Key Factors of Success at Harvard:
- Strong Coaching Staff: Access to some of the best coaching resources helped refine his skills.
- Supportive Environment: The camaraderie among teammates fostered growth and motivation.
- Networking Opportunities: Connections made at Harvard opened doors in the professional realm.
Conclusion
Heikki Ruohonen’s remarkable journey from Finland to Harvard and finally to the NHL exemplifies the power of determination, education, and adaptability. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere, showcasing that breaking the mold is possible with the right mindset and commitment.
