News Article | 6th July 2009 » Rowbotham signs a Finn and the Scims get a new No. 1

Coach Jon Rowbotham recaptures former player who signs for the Sheffield Scimitars instead of the Elite league.

Pasi Raitanen is on his way back to the Sheffield Scimitars for 2009/10 after a spell in the Elite League and Rowbotham is a very happy man indeed.

A formidable shot stopper with a wealth of experience, the Finnish goalie has played top-flight hockey for many years and has had a huge amount of success with every team he has played for. Raitanen is a big man with excellent reactions which are great qualities for hockey goalies. On announcing the player Rowbotham said, "I have known Pasi for many years and followed his form closely, which has always been outstanding. He is a true gentleman with a very professional attitude. Pasi and I have had many meetings over the years, talking about how the game should be played as we philosophised and exchanged many similar theories, I know he will bring a wealth of expertise to our young team and that's very important."

Speaking from his base in Hull, Raitanen said "I was so pleased that Jon cam knocking on my door. I love Sheffield and I know the fans have a special place for me which was a big part of my decision to agree to return to the Scimitars." He added "it seems that it's a great time to be going back to the Scims and I am really looking forward to helping the team in any way I can."

The appointment of Raitanen was a big decision for Club Director Gary Apsley, too who consulted none other than Team GB Head Coach, Paul Thompson, about the big Finn's credentials. Apsley said "I really wasn't sure about Pasi as I'd not seen him in ages so I called Tommo who said, sign him up quick, he is a top goalie, he'll do a great job for you and he'll be great with the kids!"

Raitanen has worn a Sheffield shirt on many occasions in the past, contributing to the successes with high save percentages and game winning performances between the pipes. Rowbotham spent many days and weeks chasing Raitanen's signature and he knows that the goalie is determined to repeat his performances from his previous season's with the Scims. With an in-form Raitanen as the last line of defence the Scimitars will have a huge advantage, especially in the big games where Pasi's experience should count towards the team achieving their specific aims and objectives. Last season Raitanen played for Edinburgh Capitals in the Elite League where he produced some sterling performances for the team.

Rowbotham makes no secret about his admiration for the Finn, he said "After watching him play in the Elite League I knew he would be a great addition to the Scimitars. Next season I will be carrying 3 goalies who will all be competing for game day honours. This methodology is a proven win, win recipe as it provides healthy competition between the players and after speaking to the 3 goalies they are all happy with the concept. Importantly they understand the need to be able to produce in any pressure situation, whether it be against team mates or opposition." With the Scimitars roster becoming complete it is clear that Rowbotham's pre-season plan is coming to fruition as the team is being built from the back, like he said it would be. This approach and system is what Rowbotham has used before and it has served him well in terms of successful results for the team, player development and overall performance.

It's not just with an eye on game day results that attracted Rowbotham to Raitanen. The big Finn will also take on the role as a mentor coach to Bowns and Jones to provide them with the technical training to enable them both to progress beyond the EPL. Rowbotham knows full well that it is so important to get the physical aspect, and the mental side of the game correct and Raitanen will be able to provide the full package to both Jones and Bowns.

Next News Article: Wallace to return to Scimitars
17th July 2009
Previous News Article: Archer back at the Scimitars
3rd July 2009

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