September 22, 2006.
Well I am home now. Kind of a strange feeling, really not sure what to do with myself. I guess it is time to start looking for a real job, Yikes!!!
Anyway, while I get myself reacquainted here in Toronto, I expect to keep in touch with all of you back in Finland. Please email me your contacts and let me know how things are over there….I miss it already!!!
Well, it’s been a slice, thank you everyone for being a part of my unforgettable summer. And maybe we will see you again sometime somewhere.
Until then,
Kippis,
DaniSeptember 19, 2006.
Well, two weeks traveling Europe- by myself, no plans, no itinerary, no reservations, nothing but the pack on my back and a two-week, unlimited eurail pass!!! What an experience!!!!
Amazing time, met so many different people- some cool, some not but overall tons of fun. As a result, I am exhausted. If I were to do it again, I would definitely travel with someone, if for nothing else, then simply to bare some of the responsibility in plotting the journey. You definitely need to be on 24/7 when traveling into these big cities with no bookings what so ever. I guess this was part of the fun and experience but it wasn't easy.
None the less, no complaints, I saw some amazing sites, spent some time working on my tan on the beaches of Barcelona and may have had a few cocktails along the way.
I won't give you all the details because that will just take way too long but as for my route and some highlights included the following:
First stop London- Almost too much to see, and very expensive but great sites and history and I couldn't get enough of the English accent.
Next was Paris- Just like they say- a very romantic city but I was alone so I decided to hit up some bars and discos and made an attempt to put the little french I know into action. It worked out pretty good actually.
After that, was the small town of Lourdes located in southern France- a small little town situated amongst mountains, famous for its religious history. I was there to visit a friend who works in the town but fitting in with my surroundings, it was a quiet and relaxing part of my journey.
I then made my way down to Barcelona. Amazing city, so much to offer, great nightlife, beautiful beaches, and some extremely unique architecture. I definitely recommend.
After that came an overnight cruise into Rome- By far my favourite city! Rome defies Europe in my opinion. With all the amazing history and culture embedded within, you couldn't help but enjoy yourself. And of course the Italians are a very outgoing bunch, which was an attractive quality for me.
Making my way back north, I stopped over in a town called Kaufbeuren, which is just west of Munich. Visiting an old hockey friend of mine who now plays professional in Germany, it was a great opportunity to see some culture in small town Germany. I had never eaten so well or tasted so many great beers until I visited Germany. They really know how to satisfy in that department. And of course I will never pass on a chance to see some hockey in a different country.
After that my journey became a little sour as it took quite a long time to get home. In an attempt to get back to Finland, the combination of many hours on the train already and missing one train into Stockholm, I was a little bit frustrated with the end of my trip. But I had a chance to do a night in Copenhagen, which was a very exciting city and of course a day trip in Stockholm, I will never pass up before finally getting the night ferry into Turku only one day late.
An experience of a lifetime....!!!!
Some pics to visualize my journey, click here:
September 4, 2006.
Well I guess it has been a while since my last update, I apologize to any readers but it has been quite a busy and extensive last few weeks. I won't even try to sum it all up because that would just take forever and besides, Chuck's page has already done so quite well.
What I will say though, is that over the last three weeks, I have experienced some times and memories that I will never forget for the rest of my life. First of all, one of my older brothers had come to visit for two weeks here in Turku. It was a nice opportunity to share my experiences in Finland with one of my family members. No matter how well I tried to explain things about Finland to people back home, the telephone or email simply did not do justice as first hand experience did .
I think my brother was just as happy to travel and see it for himself. And boy did we ever have a good time!
Now appropriately enough, the on-going joke for the trip was listening to several people ask,....."You guys are brothers?.....you look nothing alike!!!" Soon after, Chuck's nick-name quickly became "Swedish Guy!"
Which was quite ironic because this was something my family used to kid about for years.....
So myself, Swedish Guy, Chuck Guedo and Kimi "Rantaleijona" Grönlund made our way to Stockholm.....All I have to say about Stockholm is.....The Women...... WOW!!!!....... Unbelievable!!!!........A Paradise of Blondes!!!!!
And the city was great too.....you can read more about the details on Guedo's page......Good Times!!!
After Stockholm the party then continued back in Turku.....
Unfortunately though, I knew the end of my stay here was coming but I just did not want to believe it. I feel as if I am just starting to get comfortable here and I have made so many great friends and relationships, that it really sucks to have to leave now.
I would just like to say thank you to everyone here who made my trip what it was. To the entire Trojans organization, thank you for the opportunity and bringing me here. To all my teammates, I will never forget the times we had together on and off the field, I only wish I could have done more but would not trade this experience for the world. And a special thank you to all the coaching staff, especially my head coach, and my friend Kimi.
My journey must move on now, and it does indeed as I depart for my "Euro Trip '06" by flying into London this evening. I plan to travel much of Western Europe for the next two weeks. I will return to Turku though in two weeks time whereby I wish to say my final goodbye's in typical Finnish fashion. (With a shot of Koskenkorva).
Most of all, to all my Finnish friends and teammates, please email me, (mott.dan@gmail.com) with your contact info as I would love to stay in touch with all of you.....and who knows, maybe we will meet again some day soon?
Until Then,
Kiitos and Kippis!!!!!
Dani
ps....for recent pics please click on the "Pics" link....
August 12, 2006
Well yesterday, Chuck and I had the opportunity to see our first professional hockey game in Finland. The local team from Turku, TPS- who represent the Finnish Elite League had faced off in preseason play against the Frolunda Indians from the Swedish Elite League.
Both teams are still in the early stages of forming their final roster, however we saw some play from some fairly big name players. Tommy Salo was in net for the Indians, as well winger, Steve Kariya, brother of Paul Kariya showcased his talent with a few crafty moves from all 5 foot, 5 inches of him. He was pretty small out there but similar to his brother was quite creative with the puck.
And of course I cannot forget the fan favourite who has been welcomed back to TPS this year after a 10 year career in the NHL, Aki Berg, was surprisingly a strong presence on the ice last night. All you Torontonians can rest assure, Berg has found a place at home where he will fit the mold quite well.
Actually it was quite funny to see, Berg must have taken a few tips from his former teammate, McCabe, before he left, as he became the go-to defenceman for TPS on many special team units including the power play and penalty kill. And what do you know it, he even scored a PP goal with a nice clapper from the point. Where was that in Toronto???
TPS went on to win the game with a final score of 5-4.
It appears that the new NHL officiating trend has spread out amongst its subordinate leagues as this game too was riddled with penalties being called on both sides. There was maybe just a few minutes worth of regular strength play the entire game. But none the less there was some good hockey being played and it was nice to see a game outside of North America.
Speaking of, Turku Halli, (the home arena for TPS) made me feel a little reminiscent. Just being inside the rink, watching some hockey and listening to the most classic hockey tunes in between play, it sure was a nice taste of home.
Kiitos Kari!!!!
Kippis,
Dani
Pics- http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=159l3oez.9t08sci3&x=1&y=-yoh6g7
August 7, 2006.
I guess it has been a while since I last updated my page. Well much has happen since then, so here is a little taste.
First of all, I am also proud to say that I am an official member of the Turku Trojans as of last Saturday evening after completing our team rookie show. We passed with flying colours. A big reason for that is thanks to some friends of mine back home from the Con U Stingers. As a recent tradition in the past few years with Concordia football, some of my former team mates in particular the American players have performed a song/skit for their rookie initiation called the "12 Days of Canada." Every year this was a hit and a fan favorite so I decided to borrow the concept and we came up with the "12 Days of Finland." Included in the song were, lyrics (in English and in attempt, some Finnish) of a few unforgettable moments and experiences that we have had thus far in Finland. And of course one of the few opportunities to take a shot at some coaches and fellow team mates we embraced the chance and had fun doing so.
So to say the least, once again the "12 Days," song was a hit. Thanks to all those back home who have carried on the tradition.
But the final initiation wasn't all fun and games......for the rookies at least- Lets just say the rookie juice did not go down too smoothly!!!!! However we managed to get it down the hatch and shortly after that the veteran team members had mutually agreed and chanted out that we were officially, "Pelimies!!!!! Which in English means "Real Player."
It was a nice relief!!!!!!!!
In upcoming news, we have planned for a trip to Stockholm during our next bye week. Many friends here have told me, Stockholm is beautiful so I very much look forward to it.
On a more serious note, these next couple weeks on the gridiron will determine how much longer my stay in Finland will be. Essentially we must win out the remaining games in the regular season to have any shot at making the playoffs. All I have to say about that is......I am not ready to go home yet!!!!!!!!
Till next time,
Dani
P.S. Congratulations to the Trojans Women's team on winning the Division 1 Championship!!
July 26, 2006.
I can't believe its almost August. Where has the time gone? I guess, when your having so much fun, time really does fly by.
However, after an extended mid season break it was nice to get back on the football field this past Monday and come away with a big victory. I think we really needed that to push us in the right direction going down the stretch. It was also nice to see such a great turn-out in attendance from our fans this past game. I always enjoy playing in front of a big crowd, especially at home. We appreciate the support!
Other highlights this past week included the Pori Jazz Festival. With many awesome and internationally known bands on stage, we decided to take advantage and watch some cool jazz. Good times!!
July 17, 2006.
I had an opportunity this past weekend to see some of the northern countryside as I visited my friend Juha in Ylivieska- A small town about 60 km inland from the coast and about a six hour drive north of Turku. We also made our way up to Kalajoki which is a beautiful summer town that is famous in Finland for its beaches. Again, to me it had a very similar feel to northern Ontario the only difference being situated on the sea rather than lakes. Though it wasn't such a warm day, we still managed to take some sun and toss the frisbee around.
And of course a summer weekend at the beach in Finland wouldn't be complete without enjoying some beer, sausages and sauna afterwards.
The night club that we went to in the evening had a sweet terrace with an amazing view over-looking the sea. I met some very friendly people along the way including many of Juha's close friends and teammates. One thing's for sure, a Canadian guy and the Fins can never get tired of talking hockey!!!
Next stop......Pori Jazz Festival- Kanye West!!!!!
Kippis,
Dani
July 11, 2006.
I had an amazing experience this past weekend and a remarkable story had taken place that I wish to share.......
Five years ago, I had attended my first year at Concordia University and lived in the student residence, which happened to be the only residence on campus and had accommodated only a couple hundred students max, many whom were international students. Two guys in particular that I became friends with happen to be exchange students from Finland. There names are Juha and Ville.
That year we shared many of the same interests such as sports, in particular hockey, hockey and more hockey. We would watch countless games together and during the playoffs, we often found ourselves staying up all night watching many marathon games that had taken place that year. We also had our own personal hockey rivalry as myself and another Canadian friend of ours would play the Fins in 2 on 2 hockey. We labeled each game as a Canada versus Finland gold medal final and each game would be a grueling battle on the outdoor rink in Montreal. Of course Canada took home the gold more often than not but the Fins fought hard game after game.
Eventually the semester had come to a close and the Fins stay in Canada had expired. I remember very clearly the day they left because when we were saying our goodbye's they had offered us to come and visit some day and that we could be their guests and they would show us around. Though I was very grateful for their offer, at the time I was thinking to myself, what are the chances of me ever being in Finland? So unfortunately, I believed that I would probably never see the Fins again.
We kept in touch for a little while by email but as the years had gone by, contact was less and less and eventually none.........
Until this summer!!!!!
When I realized that I was going to be playing football in Finland this summer, one of the first things that came to mind was, "I know two Finnish guys!!!"
So once I arrived here in Turku, luckily I still had the correct email addresses of the Fins and sure enough, we contacted each other and made plans to visit.
Juha and Ville both travelled from their home town of Ylivieska this past weekend and we had a chance to reunite. Five years later, we obviously had lots to catch up on but we couldn't help to do nothing but reminisce about old times in Montreal.
It was great to see them again, and ironically enough it was me showing them around Turku. We had some drinks, dinner and partied it up. Great times!!!!!!
I also plan to visit their town this weekend while I have the chance with the bye week.
They are not too familiar with American Football either so now they have a chance to learn and see a game or two.
Juha, Ville and Mari: Thanks for the good times this past weekend, see you guys soon......
Your Canadian Friend,
Dani
July 3, 2006.
Well, I really don't have much to say this week other than, I was truly disappointed with the outcome of our game this past Saturday. The game was in our hands and quite frankly, we blew it. But, we must take this as a learning experience and put it in the past as we are coming up to the mid-season point and every game is a must win situation.
In other news, the festivals in Finland are in full force as everywhere we look there seems to be a something going on. The medievil festival this past weekend was a new experience and Ruisrock this weekend in Turku should prove to be another "Rock-out" weekend for the Fins!!!!
Till next time,
Dan
June 29, 2006.
After a well deserved mid-summer break, its back to business now. But before I speak about our upcoming game, allow me to share some highlights of this past week.....
Juhannus 2006 in Rauma was off the hook!!!! The Fins really know how to party!!!! Talk about a 3-day extended bender. Check out all the pics in our gallery. (Click on Rauma Summer Festival).
I have also had a chance to visit some cottage country, which essentially makes up the entire country outside of the cities. Anyway, the cottage country in Finland makes Muskoka look like a trailer park. Its unbelievably beautiful. Untouched lands and forestry, thousands of lakes all over and some amazing cabins. Very similar to a northern Ontario feel.
Some upcoming events include the Pori Jazz Festival, which I hope to attend in mid July. Apparently Kanye West is scheduled to perform, and Sting has already been sold out!!! Yeah Sting!!!!
But before that, we have two huge games coming up. One of our biggest games of the season is this weekend Vs. the Helsinki Roosters and definitely serves as a must win situation. Should be a good one!!!!
Well that's it for now. Happy Canada Day to everyone back home, hope the weather is great. Hello to my family and friends in Markham, MTL, O-town, Con U.....
Till next time,
Kippis,
Dan
June 21, 2006.
Hello,
Well I've been here for about six weeks now and I must say I am loving every minute of it. With a couple victories under our belt now I feel a little more confident going into the mid-summer break. We still have lots of work to do to improve our play and with a tough stretch of opponents coming up we must rise to the challenge.
In the meantime, I am having a blast. The country here is beautiful and the people are very welcoming. I could probably tell a hundred great stories already but instead I have created a top 10 list of moments to remember so far in Finland:
10) It's all about the buffet's
9) Drinking on River boats
8) Dancing on tables to Finnish summer hit- "Tänä iltana ei tuu pakkeja!!!!!"
7) Further drinking on River boats
6) Cruising on my cadilac of bikes, CIRCA 1971- "Wedding Crashers" style
5) Looking at all the pretty blond "sites"....(there must be something in the water here in Turku)
4) Hard Rock Hallelujah, (Lordi Rocks!!)
3) The amount of beer one Finnish man can drink???? (and I thought Canadians were tough)
2) Enjoying the Finnish tradition of Sauna's, Booze, and BBQ
1) Does the sun ever go down in this country??????
Cheers!
Dan
E-mail- mott.dan@gmail.com
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Dan Mott #12 (White)@ Seinajoki