World Cup chasing gold with Mika Ahonen in Finland

Even after many years on the field, he is not yet completely ready, hoping to achieve his goal at the Special Olympics Unified Volleyball World Cup Katowice 2025.

“Although I have been playing volleyball and beach volleyball for decades, I have not yet won gold in international games, so I would really like to keep playing until I can eventually win gold.”
The tournament started on October 5, where Finland lost to Saudi Aarabia, 39 to 50 points, but this will not scare Mika for his search for glory!

Leiden on and next to the court

Mika recently stepped into a leading role as a leader in athlete in Special Olympics Finland. For him, guiding others feels rather different from leading on the field, but just worth it.

“Playing on the field, things happen fairly quickly. As the leader of an athlete I have to allow more time to process while I discuss with someone face-to-face,” he explains.

In his hometown Tampere, Mika is a steady presence in his Beach Volleyball Club, BVT (Beach Volley Tampere). Mika, always on time and well prepared, ensures that everyone feels supported. “I always want to offer my help if there is something that I can help with. Whether it is at tournaments or events, I just want to ensure that everyone knows the schemes and can be prepared. Supporting my team is just a part of who I am.”

The power of positivity

The teammates of Mika describe him as reliable and quickly with a joke – someone whose energetic mind always lifts the people around him, and who retain a positive perspective, whether it is in victory or defeat.

“It makes no sense to get upset about a loss. One team wins and loses the other. We learn from the loss and keep going, and the only thing we can do is try to be better for the next game.” This cheerful energy is reflected for Mika by its special Olympic community.

“The biggest support in my life comes from the communities that I am part of. My friends and teammates mean a lot to me, and they keep me motivated and enjoy every moment.”

Photo by Iñaki Esnoola

Skills and sportiness

As a player, Mika is respected by his coaches and teammates for his game information and strong technical skills. He thrives mainly in beach volleyball.

“I prefer beach volleyball because it is naturally a more challenging game because of the sand and weather conditions,” he shares.

In addition to volleyball, when he does not compete, he remains active in other sports. “I like to be outside and exercise like football” Floor ball” table tennisAnd tennisWho all keep me energetic, so I can enjoy my time with friends and teammates. ‘

Looking ahead: the World Cup in Poland

Now Mika’s eyes are focused on the Unified Volleyball World Cup in Poland. With almost 30 years of volleyball experience, he is ready to take on the challenge and get the best out of every game.

“The opponents will be very difficult, and we have to give it our best to fight for our victories,” says Mika. “I am really looking forward to playing against new teams. It will be an exciting time in Poland and a great opportunity to gain new experiences.”

A lifelong love for volleyball

Even while he continues to chase his dream to win an international gold medal, Mika is already thinking of the future.

“After winning gold, it might be time for me to give room to the younger players. Maybe I can share my experience as an assistant coach,” he says. Mika’s dedication to help others as a leader of athlete and his passion for volleyball make him a leading presence in the community, which of course reveals why he is really the core of the sport. Mika and Team Finland entered the field on day one of the tournament and lost to Team Saudi Aarabia with a score of 39 points, while Saudi Arabia cinched a 50 victory. Still so much to play for when Finland looks out for day two!

You can view the opening ceremony, competitions and closing and granting ceremonies from 5 to 8 October live at the Special Olympics Poland YouTube Channel: Special Olympics Poland – YouTube.

Follow our special webpage for the Special Olympics Unified Volleyball World Cup during the tournament for the full schedule and results, news and seven other athlete stories from our region.