Story Summary
Henri Kiviaho has joined Tappara Tampere after his spell with the Graz99ers came to an end. The 32-year-old Finnish goaltender returns to the Liiga, having arrived in Graz from HC Slovan Bratislava at the end of September.
Kiviaho supported the Austrian side while first-choice netminder Maxime Lagacé was sidelined through injury. Lagacé has since returned to the squad, and Kiviaho did not agree a contract extension in Graz. He will now continue his career with Tappara.
Key Facts
- Henri Kiviaho has moved from the Graz99ers to Tappara Tampere.
- The 32-year-old Finnish goaltender joined the Graz99ers from HC Slovan Bratislava at the end of September.
- Kiviaho provided goaltending cover in Graz while Maxime Lagacé was absent through injury.
- Lagacé has returned to the Graz99ers squad, and Kiviaho did not sign a contract extension with the club.
- Kiviaho will play in the Liiga for Tappara after previous top-flight Finnish spells with KalPa, Ilves and SaiPa.
IHM Discussion
This move gives Kiviaho a swift return to Finnish hockey after a short but clearly defined assignment in Graz. His arrival followed Lagacé’s injury absence, and his departure has followed the regular starter’s return to fitness.
For Tappara, the signing brings in an experienced 1.91-metre goaltender with prior Liiga experience. Kiviaho knows the league from his time with KalPa, Ilves and SaiPa, while the move also ends a sequence that took him from Slovan Bratislava to Graz and now back to Finland.
Why It Matters
Kiviaho’s exit closes the temporary goaltending arrangement in Graz. With Lagacé back in the squad, the Graz99ers have not extended Kiviaho’s stay.
Tappara add a Finnish netminder who has already played in the country’s top division. The deal places Kiviaho back in a familiar league environment after his recent moves abroad.
Mini Q&A
Which club has Henri Kiviaho joined?
Henri Kiviaho has joined Tappara Tampere in the Liiga.
Why did Kiviaho leave the Graz99ers?
Kiviaho’s engagement ended after Maxime Lagacé returned from injury, and no contract extension was agreed.
Which Finnish clubs has Kiviaho represented previously?
Kiviaho has previously played in Finland’s top division for KalPa, Ilves and SaiPa.
What Comes Next
Kiviaho’s next confirmed step is to join Tappara and play in the Liiga.